From conflict to coexistence: Supporting Namibian farmers and cheetahs
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- by CCF United Kingdom 17 April 2024
In a world where human progress often comes at the expense of nature’s delicate balance, people are working to forge a harmonious coexistence between humans, wildlife, and the environment. At the Cheetah Conservation Fund (CCF), this vision is not just a dream but a mission, one that seeks to create a future where humans thrive alongside cheetahs, local communities flourish, and the environment thrives.
Today, we’re thrilled to unveil a groundbreaking initiative that embodies this vision—the launch of The Big Give Green Match Fund. Through this initiative, every pound donated will be doubled, amplifying the impact of your support to empower Namibian communities and safeguard Africa’s most endangered big cat, the cheetah.
Addressing the issue
In Namibia, where 64% of the population lives in poverty and livelihoods depend on subsistence or livestock farming, the coexistence between humans and wildlife is fragile. Unsustainable farming practices not only lead to habitat destruction but also exacerbate human-wildlife conflict (HWC), posing a significant threat to the survival of cheetahs. The majority of Namibia’s cheetah population resides in unprotected communal and resettled farmlands, where the loss of even a single animal can have devastating consequences.
What can we do to solve this problem?
CCF’s innovative approach tackles the root causes of HWC through education, training, and sustainable farming practices. Our Future Farmers of Africa (FFA) program equips farmers with the knowledge and tools to implement sustainable practices while incorporating livestock guarding dogs to protect their herds. By introducing alternative farming methods demonstrated at our Model Farm, we provide practical solutions to reduce wealth inequality and mitigate conflict between farmers and wildlife.
Farmers adopting CCF’s principles have reported remarkable results, with over an 80% reduction in livestock losses to predators. This figure increases to 90% when a Livestock Guarding Dog is employed, demonstrating the effectiveness of our holistic approach. Beyond safeguarding livestock, these practices enhance animal health, improve livelihoods, and elevate the overall quality of life for local communities. However, to expand our reach and amplify our impact, we need your support.
Help us make a real impact by reducing human-wildlife conflict
The expansion of our Future Farmers initiative to Okakarara presents a crucial opportunity to transform lives and protect cheetahs from HWC. With costs amounting to £20,000, your donation today will be matched, doubling the impact of your generosity. Together, we can empower communities, preserve biodiversity, and ensure a future where humans and wildlife thrive side by side. Please, join us in making a difference today.
As we embark on this journey towards a more sustainable future, we extend our deepest gratitude to each and every supporter who shares our commitment to conservation. Your unwavering support fuels our passion and drives us forward in our mission to protect the world’s last remaining cheetahs. On behalf of everyone at CCF UK, thank you for standing with us in this noble cause. Together, we can make a real difference for people, wildlife, and the planet we all call home.
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