The RWSI is the first sustained multi-year initiative to be rolled out across Africa, and the first time that these three organisations have collaborated on such a project.

The ambitious five-year ‘RWSI’ plan will provide 10,000 rangers with access to appropriate, affordable in-service accident, medical, evacuation and life insurance cover, together with opportunities for training and leadership development, and incorporates access to the RangerProject insurance scheme.

Rangers are the guardians of biodiversity; their role on the frontline of wildlife conservation is fundamental to environmental security and human wellbeing, and to safeguarding nature for future generations.  Rangers also play a vital role in reaching the Global Biodiversity Framework targets (‘30×30’): their work can be linked to reaching 57% of the targets.

Despite the increasingly critical and varied nature of the profession, rangers are frequently exposed to life-threatening situations and their efforts to safeguard threatened species, habitats and local communities is under-valued and under-respected. Poor remuneration and working conditions, long hours and a lack of basic training and equipment are common.

The RWSI has been designed to be spearheaded by African rangers for the benefit of African rangers, with a Leadership Council composed of rangers drawn from the Wildlife Ranger Challenge, GRAA members, as well as alumni of Tusk’s prestigious Wildlife Ranger Award.