Local pressure stops illegal wildlife transfer in South Luangwa National Park!

Recently, 3 big container-sized trucks sent by a private game reserve in Zambia showed up at the main entrance of the South Luangwa National Park with the intention of going into the park to dart and capture wildlife.

The Royal Chiefs nor the CRBs (Community Resource Boards) were consulted about the wildlife purchase and transfer, and the Chiefs and the community were outraged. The local economy of the Nsefu Sector, which is home to South Luangwa, heavily depends on tourism and photographic safaris. South Luangwa National Park is known for its diverse wildlife and the health of the park is critical to the survival of the local economy. Having a business "pilfer" animals out of a national park with no approval by local officials or conservation organizations was very concerning. Many locals are reliant on the employment offered by the wildlife-based businesses and programs in the sector. The wildlife is the lifeblood of the region.

The local chiefs, led by His Royal Highness Senior Chief Nsefu, sent a letter to the president of Zambia, asking to cease this operation. Community members, Wildlife Scouts, Conservation Rangers, and local villagers gathered together to protest peacefully taking a strong stand against these kind of actions. When the trucks showed up to take animals away, they were turned away by all the protesters and left with nothing. The power of the Zambian people working together to protect their wildlife is a momentous event in conservation.

Nsefu Wildlife is proud to have partnered with His Royal Highness Chief Nsefu and community members in sending this powerful message that their wildlife is NOT FOR SALE. Zambia is taking the lead in fighting for their wildlife and we are thrilled to have been part of such an important event!