World Ranger Day 2024: Interview with Charlie & Kate of “Rangering Around the World” Nguuni Nature Sanctuary Volunteers
In honour of World Ranger Day, we celebrate the invaluable contributions of rangers in preserving our natural world. This year, we're spotlighting the experiences of Charlie and Kate, two UK-based volunteers known on social media as @rangering_around_the_world. They spent seven weeks this January with us at Nguuni Nature Sanctuary, working closely with Dr. Rene Haller.
We interviewed them around on theme of this year's World Ranger Day, “30 by 30”, based on the Global Biodiversity Framework established at COP15. Target 3 outlined a requirement that at least 30% of the planet is effectively conserved and managed by 2030. World Ranger Day, celebrated every July 31st is supported by the International Ranger Federation and various conservation organisations worldwide to celebrate the crucial work of rangers globally and raise awareness of the challenges they face in protecting the planet's natural heritage.
Why is Education Important for Rangers?
"Education and professional development are incredibly important," says Charlie. "Rangers work on the frontline of nature conservation and are responsible for delivering all our biodiversity targets. Ensuring they are equipped with the latest tools, techniques, and knowledge is critically important and is one of the main reasons we set out on our global ranger journey."
How Can We Encourage Volunteering?
"Volunteering is often the bedrock of successful conservation efforts," Charlie continues. "Not only can it lead to positive on-the-ground action for nature, but it also offers the potential to educate the public and inspire the next generation of conservation professionals and leaders."
What Animal Encounters Did You Experience?
"Seeing giraffes up close was definitely a highlight," shares Charlie. "They're such enormous yet graceful animals, and it was a privilege to observe them closely. I also enjoyed learning about the Sanctuary's butterfly fauna and witnessing an explosion of brown-veined white butterflies during their annual migration. At times, it almost looked like it was snowing!"
How Can We Ensure Ranger Safety?
"Ranger safety is critical," emphasises Charlie. "As rangers from the UK, we are fortunate that most of our work is relatively risk-free. However, our journey highlighted the dangers some rangers face and the extraordinary risks they take to protect nature. Improving ranger safety should be a priority."
What Was It Like Working with Dr. Rene Haller?
"From our first conversation with Dr. Haller, we were struck by the incredible life he has led," Charlie reflects. "Witnessing the restoration of the Bamburi quarry from seedlings to a mature forest ecosystem is rare and invaluable. Dr Haller was very encouraging of our work and incredibly kind to host us at Nguuni. We will carry his advice and learning with us in our future careers."
How Can We Achieve the “30 by 30” Conservation Target?
"Conserving at least 30% of the earth's land and sea by 2030 is hugely ambitious," notes Charlie. "To achieve it, we need to:
Employ and develop more highly skilled and well-trained rangers.
Set realistic and achievable goals informed by people on the ground.
Work in partnership with other organizations and ensure local people have a stake in success."
How Can Agriculture and Wildlife Conservation Work Together?
"Combining wildlife conservation with agriculture is a huge and critical challenge," Charlie explains. "In places like Kenya, finding ways for agriculture and wildlife to work in harmony will help solve the biodiversity and climate crises and address food security concerns. The Haller Foundation's practical, straightforward techniques to help people farm in a more nature-friendly way are exactly what's needed."
Kate adds, "Rangers are essential to achieving the 30x30 conservation target. Around the world, we balance the needs of mankind and the natural environment, educate and inspire the next generation, and protect endangered habitats and species. Training, education, and investment in rangers are key, as well as ensuring our safety and well-being on and off patrol."
During their time at Nguuni, Charlie and Kate exchanged practical land management skills and ecological knowledge at community outreach days. They also created a 'Ranger Recommendations' document to further Nguuni's potential in visitor services and volunteering.
"We cannot thank the Haller Foundation enough for giving us an insight into a unique area of conservation work in Kenya," Kate concludes. "We hope your rangers will benefit from this exchange, just as we have benefited from their hospitality, knowledge, enthusiasm, and optimism."
Follow Charlie and Kate on Instagram to see their adventures as they journey across the globe, volunteering at National Parks learning and sharing conservation practices!
Please vote for the Nguuni Nature Sanctuary to win World's Leading Sustainable Education & Training Programme
As we celebrate World Ranger Day, we invite you to support the Nguuni Nature Sanctuary, which has been nominated for World's Leading Sustainable Education & Training Programme in this year's World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards. Your vote will help us continue our mission beyond training and empowering people to practice conservation, but also provide a space for people to do so.
Vote for Nguuni Nature Sanctuary here.
If you want to support our dedicated rangers in their mission to protect wildlife and local communities, please consider donating here. Your contribution not only enables them to continue their crucial work, but also enhances their education and safety. Additionally, your support helps us deliver conservation education to our visitors, volunteers, local school communities, and through the Haller Farmers App.
