Pretoria, South Africa – 29 November 2024 – Defender has unveiled a strengthened commitment to its long-standing partnership with the conservation charity Tusk, marking a significant milestone in their shared mission to protect Africa’s endangered species and biodiversity. Building on almost two decades of collaboration, this renewed partnership will significantly enhance the support for wildlife conservation across the African continent, with a focus on sustainable community-driven solutions.
A New Era for Conservation
This renewed collaboration will see Defender provide increased vehicle support and grant funding to six flagship conservation projects spearheaded by Tusk. The first three projects have been selected in Namibia, Botswana, and South Africa, working with renowned organizations such as Save the Rhino Trust, Wild Entrust, and Vulpro. These partnerships will work to protect endangered species, safeguard vital habitats, and engage local communities in ongoing conservation efforts.
Mark Cameron, Managing Director of Defender, expressed his pride in the extended partnership, stating, “We’ve been proud partners of Tusk for nearly 20 years, and as the challenges facing wildlife and communities in Africa continue to evolve, so too must our approach. This enhanced program of support will give local experts and communities the necessary tools and funding to accelerate their important work. Defender’s vehicles, technology, and culture of innovation are perfectly suited to support these teams in navigating vast and challenging landscapes.”
This new strategic approach focuses on leveraging the capabilities of Defender vehicles to help conservation teams on the ground, enabling them to carry out essential activities such as surveying, tracking, rescuing, and rehabilitating endangered species. Additionally, community engagement and education will play a crucial role in the long-term success of these projects, ensuring that local populations are equipped to advocate for and sustain wildlife and habitat protection.
Six Flagship Projects Driving Impact
Over the next three years, the collaboration will drive critical activities across Africa, including wildlife rescue operations, species tracking, and habitat preservation. In Namibia, Save the Rhino Trust will work to monitor and protect rhino populations, while Wild Entrust in Botswana will focus on endangered cheetah populations, and Vulpro in South Africa will continue its mission to protect vultures, whose numbers have been in sharp decline.
Each of these projects is designed with a focus on community-driven conservation efforts, with local expertise at the forefront of each initiative. By combining funding with the support of Defender vehicles, these organizations will be better equipped to safeguard Africa’s most iconic and vulnerable species.
Championing the Wildlife Ranger Challenge
In addition to funding flagship conservation projects, Defender will also continue its vital support for Tusk’s Wildlife Ranger Challenge. This annual event, which celebrates the courage and resilience of wildlife rangers, has become an essential part of the African conservation landscape. By racing across protected areas, rangers raise vital funds that go directly towards supporting their efforts in protecting wildlife and ecosystems.
Since its inception, the Wildlife Ranger Challenge has raised over $21 million, benefitting 11,500 rangers and helping to protect 45 endangered species and more than 36 million hectares of land. Defender will continue to champion the work of these rangers, who are often the first line of defense against poaching and habitat loss.
Supporting the Tusk Awards and Lewa Marathon
Defender’s commitment to conservation extends beyond direct funding and vehicle support. The brand will continue its support of the Lewa Marathon, one of the world’s most challenging endurance races, which raises awareness and funds for wildlife conservation. Additionally, Defender remains a proud partner of the Tusk Awards, which honor individuals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to protecting Africa’s unique biodiversity.
At the Tusk Awards held on 27 November 2024, Edward Aruna, founder of the Reptile and Amphibian Programme in Sierra Leone, was awarded the Defender-supported ‘Conservation in Africa’ award. Aruna has worked tirelessly to protect marine turtle species, advocating for stronger protections against threats like by-catch, sand mining, and the erosion of nesting beaches. His efforts have led to significant conservation successes, including the monitoring of over 110 sea turtle nests and the release of 3,652 live hatchlings in 2023 alone.
Embracing the Impossible
The enduring partnership between Defender and Tusk is a powerful example of how businesses can drive positive change by supporting conservation efforts that are both sustainable and impactful. The extension of this collaboration reflects both organizations’ shared vision to protect Africa’s biodiversity and empower local communities to continue their work in the face of mounting challenges.
Through this renewed commitment, Defender and Tusk will continue to push the boundaries of what is possible, supporting local conservation experts and communities in their tireless efforts to safeguard Africa’s wildlife for future generations. As Mark Cameron puts it, “This partnership is a perfect example of embracing the impossible – tackling the toughest challenges with unwavering determination, and providing the support and tools necessary to make a lasting impact.”
By expanding its support for conservation projects, Defender is not just making a difference today, but ensuring that the future of Africa’s wildlife remains secure for generations to come.
