Conservation Technology: A Glimpse into the Future of Cheetah Conservation

Greetings from Cape Town!
Recently, our team at the Cheetah Conservation Fund participated in the EarthRanger User Conference – an exciting meeting on the use of technology for wildlife conservation. Hosted in the picturesque city of Cape Town, the event brought together passionate individuals from various corners of the globe, all dedicated to leveraging technology to protect and preserve our planet’s precious wildlife.

Tackling the Illegal Cheetah Trade in the Horn of Africa

One of the highlights of the conference was our chance to share insights into our ongoing efforts to combat the illegal cheetah trade in the Horn of Africa. Building on over thirty years of experience in cheetah conservation, we shared our insights on the lessons we have learned from Namibia, and how we apply and design our conservation programs to the needs of cheetahs in Somaliland and the broader region.

During our talk, we delved into the ways in which technology has become a powerful ally in our mission to protect cheetahs. From advanced monitoring systems to data analytics, we showcased a variety of tools and techniques that have become integral in our conservation initiatives. One innovative approach is the use of community engagement apps. These are designed to bridge the gap between conservationists and local communities so that they actively participate in the protection of their natural heritage. In Somaliland, we work with Wildlife Observers that are trained in the use of SMART, a spatial monitoring and reporting tool. This mobile application allows you to make wildlife observations or report human-wildlife conflict incidents anywhere and at any time through your mobile phone. Recently, one of the Wildlife Observers tracked down an illegal trafficking case, which resulted in the confiscation of two cheetahs cubs and the arrest of five traffickers!

The Power of Collaboration and the Digital Future for Conservation

Beyond showcasing our own initiatives, the conference provided a unique platform for forging new connections and collaborations. Meeting with representatives from various conservation partners opened doors to exciting possibilities for joint efforts and shared resources. In the spirit of unity, we explored innovative ideas and collectively envisioned a future where technology plays a pivotal role in wildlife conservation on a global scale.

As we reflect on our time in Cape Town, one thing is abundantly clear: the integration of technology into wildlife conservation is not just a trend; it’s a transformative force with the potential to revolutionize how we approach conservation challenges. At the Cheetah Conservation Fund, we are committed to staying at the forefront of this digital revolution. By embracing technology, we strive not only to protect cheetahs but also to inspire a new era of conservation where innovation is the key to safeguarding our planet’s biodiversity.

Full Presentation