With the increasing threat of armed poachers and militia groups, over 1000 rangers have lost their lives in the line of duty over the past 10 years, and 54 African rangers have died since July 31, 2018, according to records by the International Ranger Federation (IRF) and Game Rangers Association of Africa (GRAA).
Now, the GRAA has partnered with SATIB Insurance brokers to create a unique product for rangers across Africa, offering cover 24/7, even when rangers are off duty.
In Africa, a World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) survey found that 40% of rangers were not covered by health insurance, 50% had no life insurance and 60% had no long-term disability insurance.
“We have been on a long road to develop insurance plans for rangers across Africa at a rate that rangers can afford. It is imperative that the industry, which rely on wilderness areas for their business, contribute to this initiative,” says Andre du Toit, Director of SATIB Insurance Brokers.
Ranger Protect aims to garner financial support to ensure the well-being of Africa’s rangers and their families through the provision of adequate insurance cover in the event of injury or death. Medical evacuation cover also ensures rangers have peace of mind that, should an emergency arise, they will receive support.
“It is imperative that rangers are protected. Rangers are the guardians of wilderness and conservation areas and we need all role players in the wildlife economy to do the right thing, act now and support rangers,” says Andrew Campbell, CEO of GRAA.
Last year, 769 rhino and 72 elephants were poached in South Africa, often by sophisticated criminal syndicates. The men and women who protect these animals are often under threat as they operate in extreme environments and face the risks associated with dangerous animals, sickness and community backlash.
“The rangers greatest fear is not what happens to him or her but what will happen to their families if they are wounded or killed. By providing insurance for these rangers we are supporting their families and are securing a future for Africa’s iconic wildlife and wild places!” says Peter Chadwick, a conservation photographer.
World Ranger Day took place on July 31, and you can support rangers by sponsoring their insurance for a year. It will cost R362 – less than R1 per day.
The cost of each ranger is as follows:
- Ranger Protect premium – R272 / $20
- GRAA field ranger membership – R90 / $6
Total cost per year: R362.00 / $26
Covers are currently available for rangers in South Africa, Namibia, Zambia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Swaziland, Mozambique, Angola, Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda, with further territories planned to be introduced.
To support this project, visit Ranger Protects website here.
