University of Pretoria and Game Rangers Association of Africa join forces to launch pioneering anti-poaching research program, prioritizing ranger safety and well-being
(The Post News)- In a groundbreaking initiative, the University of Pretoria has embarked on a 10-year research program to shield Africa’s game rangers from the perils of their noble profession.
Collaborating with the Game Rangers Association of Africa and international experts, this ambitious project seeks to create a comprehensive database for future research on injury prevention strategies.
As the primary custodians of natural environments, rangers face formidable risks, with 140 lives lost globally in 2023, and 42 in Africa alone, highlighting the urgency of this research.
By leveraging the expertise of the University’s Department of Physiotherapy and Sports Medicine, relyowned for injury prevention in athletes, this research will focus on understanding the injury profiles of rangers.
Through in-depth interviews with rangers, the research will assess their perceptions of injury risks and barriers to prevention, ultimately informing context-specific solutions.
This pioneering program will not only enhance ranger safety but also underscore their crucial role as warriors on the frontlines of rhino poaching and environmental conservation.
With 89% of African rangers reporting life-threatening incidents, this research is crucial in developing effective injury prevention strategies.
By recognizing the importance of tailored approaches, the research will focus on specific contexts, such as Table Mountain National Park and Kruger National Park, to ensure the well-being of these unsung heroes.
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