Poaching in East Africa
Poaching has been a persistent global problem. It seems to be worse in East Africa. As a result, the tourism sector is on a continuous decline. This has led to the training of more ranges by the respective governments. A good example is the Tsavo National Park in Southern Kenya. Women from the Maasai community volunteer to join these programs. Governments have also given women leaders the support they need to fight this menace. The community around this park has been affected by poaching first hand.
The members of this community use different forms of technology to create awareness. They also use the available technology to report any suspicious activities. Before, this was as a man’s job, but we have seen many women take up these roles.
Technologies used to fight poaching in East Africa
Cars with the front infrared cameras – The trained women rangers have their patrol cars installed with Flir cameras and a monitor. The cameras help them monitor the movement of animals and human beings. If they sensed any danger, they could raise the alarm, as well as share their location. They work closely with the Kenya Wildlife service to ensure they make this initiative more fruitful.
Use of Hand-held thermal cameras – These cameras enable them to work at night since they can detect the body heat of the poachers and wildlife up to three kilometers away.
Use of mobile phones – Most women in our society own mobile phones. They can take pictures of suspected poachers and send the information to relevant authorities.
They can also make phone calls and send text messages to the relevant task force who can pursue these poachers and apprehend them on time.
Ranger Patrol analysis software program, called SMART {Spatial Monitoring and Reporting Tool} – The female rangers are trained on how to use this software program. This enables them to report any incidence ASAP for a faster response from the control unit.
Use of binoculars – They are trained on how to use binoculars. This allows them to observe poachers, and the movement of animals. They then report any unusual occurrences.
Forensics – These rangers are also trained on forensic analysis and also gathering evidence. including how to manage crime scenes and collecting samples.
Media
Women have also taken up the role in educating the society on the need to stop poaching. They use social media platforms like Facebook, instagram, WhatsApp groups, and others. These rangers also provide a means to report any suspicious activities around national parks or reserves.
Women are also using instruments like YouTube to educate younger kids about wildlife. They teach the benefits of conserving wildlife, and the benefits they bring to our countries. When children grow up knowing this, they will keep the dream of wildlife conservation alive in future.
Through advertisements on Mass media – Women leaders have been at the forefront in educating the society on the importance of reporting poachers. And, the importance of preserving our wildlife. This is through appearances on Television and radio programs. We have also seen photos of female models and celebrities on billboards campaigning against poaching. This goes a long way in creating awareness to the public.
Newspaper articles – Women in leadership, students, and wildlife bloggers have not been left behind. The educate on East Africa’s beautiful wildlife through blogs and documentaries. This has made the society aware of the benefits of these animals and the need to preserve them.
Conclusion
Women in East Africa have taken advantage of the available technology to fight poaching. This has led to a reduction in poaching activities, and the apprehension of the perpetrators. Some of the methods they have used are;
- Use of mobile phones to report and record such incidences advertisements
- Social media platforms like Facebook
- Use of mass media like television programs to educate the society on the dangers of poaching.
- The use of infrared cameras has helped to track the movement of animals and humans in our game parks and game reserves.
