Rangers from across Africa are preparing for this year’s Wildlife Ranger Challenge ahead of World Ranger Day on 31 July.
Organised by Tusk and the Game Rangers Association of Africa (GRAA), the multi-million fundraising initiative begins with two months of physical and mental challenges for ranger teams before culminating in a coordinated 21km race across Africa on 19 September.
Rangers will run in full gear, carrying up to 22kg backpacks to highlight the physical and mental demands they face daily on the frontline while protecting some of the world’s most diverse and fragile ecosystems.
The Challenge typically sees over 2,000 rangers take part in the training challenges and race day, representing more than 110 protected areas across more than 20 African countries. It has raised over $25 million (over £18.8 million) since it launched in 2020, supporting the vital work of rangers across Africa and benefitting over 500,000 people living in and around a wildlife landscape covering 58 million hectares.
This year’s challenge builds on that momentum, with estimates suggesting Africa still has only one-fifth of the frontline rangers needed to protect wildlife, communities and ecosystems. Money raised from this year’s Wildlife Ranger Challenge will go towards ranger training, equipment, improved safety and help reduce the pressure on ranger resources.
Beyond the race itself, the 2026 Challenge highlights the breadth of a ranger’s role. Their responsibilities extend well beyond anti-poaching patrols to include education, community support and emergency response, contributing to several of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals as well as wildlife protection.
That work often comes at a serious cost. According to GRAA, at least 565 African rangers have been killed in the line of duty since 2011, with close to 300 of those deaths caused by poachers, militia and armed groups. Many more have been injured or threatened while on patrol.
“The dangers Africa’s wildlife rangers face every day rarely make headlines, yet their work underpins everything conservation hopes to achieve. The Wildlife Ranger Challenge is an opportunity for the world to stand in solidarity with Africa’s rangers, investing in their safety, wellbeing and future, and ensuring they have the protection and support they deserve”.
Charlie Mayhew OBE, President and CEO of Tusk
As the Challenge continues to grow, so too does its ambition. Since its inception it has evolved into a lasting movement that secures proper recognition for rangering as a profession, strengthens ties between rangers across borders, and drives lasting improvements to their welfare throughout Africa.
“Rangers don’t ask for recognition – they simply get on with their work as essential planetary health workers, protecting nature and ecosystems, often in incredibly challenging circumstances. The Wildlife Ranger Challenge is an opportunity for the world to stand in solidarity with Africa’s rangers, investing in their safety, wellbeing and future, and ensuring they have the protection and support they deserve”.
Louise de Bruin, CEO at the Game Rangers Association of Africa
The challenge is supported by founding donor Mark Scheinberg, who match funds $1 million dollars, alongside other match funding partners including the Disney Conservation Fund, EJF Philanthropies and Defender who help the campaign go even further this year.
If you would like to donate to the Wildlife Ranger Challenge, supporting rangers on the frontline please donate HERE. Any donations will be match funded, meaning the money you donate will have double the impact.
Support the Wildlife Ranger Challenge Appeal
Find out more
Sign-up for exclusive access to News, Events, Offers, Updates from Projects and how you can get involved. Conservation starts with you.