Defying tradition:Number of women entering male-dominated field on the up

Yashe Hloka 

HWANGE-More women are defying patriarchal traditions to become rangers, an occupation that has long been perceived as a preserve for men. This came to light during the World Ranger Challenge (WRC) day held in Hwange last week.

The annual WRC  is meant to raise money for frontline conservation as well as raise awareness on the importance of the rangers’ role in protecting wildlife, habitats, communities and the planet.

The challenge entails a 21km  race across the challenging terrain of Africa’s Protected Areas, highlighting the work of rangers, the challenges they face and the incredible diversity of their work, and raises funds to help them continue  safeguarding Africa’s wildlife and  their communities.

Notably, women’s participation at this year’s edition was higher compared to last year.

Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (Zimparks) Matabeleland Regional Manager, Amos Chipaya commended the active participation of women, stressing the huge role they play in conservation.

“In the past, women would  be overlooked for this job because  they did  not fit into the traditional conception of a wildlife ranger. However, over time, women have proved their mettle in protecting Africa’s rich natural heritage,” said Chibaya.

With assistance from Painted Dog Conservation (PDC) communities in Mabale community volunteers anti-poaching units which boast of more female members, have been established.

One female ranger with PDC, Belinda Ncube said she was inspired from a very young age while attending a bush camp. 

“Attending Iganyana Bush Camp which is annually held by PDC for grade six learners from schools close to the national park made me appreciate the importance of rangers and the work they do to protect wild animals,” she said.

When she came of age she saw a glaring gap that kept women relegated to peripheries as far as conservation was concerned and vowed to make a difference by becoming one of the first female rangers. She has gone on to receive international recognition for her efforts. 

Another female anti poaching volunteer said most women were joining anti-poaching activities after losing livestock through wire snares strewn about in the bush. 

“Most of us were compelled by losing our cattle to wire snares set by poachers. Since then, women who bear the brunt of such disasters have been at the forefront of conservation efforts in Mabale,” she said.

Chipaya saluted the remarkable work done by the rangers saying  they risked their lives daily to protect wildlife. 

“It is an honor to celebrate, recognize the excellent work that is done on a day-to-day basis by these brave men and women who always soldier on in the wild regardless of the challenges faced,” he said.

PDC Operations manager, David Kuvawoga appealed to the corporate world to partner conservation players in their efforts. 

“We continue to call on the corporate world to assist in conservation efforts through supporting the welfare of our rangers who brave the elements and dangers of the wild to protect their heritage. As PDC we have continued to work with communities and authorities to enhance conservation efforts,” said Kuvawoga.

Rangers from Zimparks, Forestry Commission, conservancies and the community anti-poaching unit received grocery hampers consisting of mealie meal, cooking oil, beans and other items from PDC and its partners. 

The 21km half marathon saw some rangers carrying backpacks with a weight of 22kg for men and 10kg for women as a symbol of  what happens during their patrols which last more than 21 days.