Africa’s elephants and other endangered species are facing an urgent crisis. Every year, thousands of elephants are killed for their ivory, fueling illegal wildlife trade and pushing these majestic animals closer to extinction. Poaching is not just a wildlife issue—it threatens the stability of entire ecosystems, disrupts local communities, and fuels criminal networks.
 

At Elephant Cooperation, our Frontline Defenders initiative plays a critical role in mitigating human-wildlife conflict, ensuring the safety of both elephants and local communities. These dedicated rangers not only protect vulnerable wildlife, but also monitor and combat illegal activities, such as logging and charcoal burning that threaten natural habitats. Equipped with the necessary tools and training, they are the unsung heroes, risking their lives daily to safeguard some of the world’s most precious animals while preserving the balance between wildlife and human communities.

Our Frontline Defenders are highly trained rangers who patrol vast wilderness areas, monitor elephant herds, and dismantle poaching networks. We work in collaboration with local communities and governments to establish long-term solutions for protecting wildlife. Our efforts include:
 

• Anti-Poaching Patrols: Conducting daily patrols in high-risk areas, ensuring a constant presence to deter poachers.

• Technology & Surveillance: Using drones, GPS tracking, and camera traps to monitor wildlife and detect human elephant conflict activity before it happens.

• Training & Equipping Rangers: Providing training in tracking and intelligence and important gear like boots, radios, and vehicles.

• Community Engagement: Educating local communities about the importance of wildlife conservation and offering alternative livelihood opportunities to reduce the appeal of poaching and other illegal wildlife activities.