Sango Wildlife Conservancy

The Sango Wildlife Conservancy, located in southeast Zimbabwe, spans 60,000 hectares within the Savé Valley Conservancy. It serves as a refuge for some of Africa’s most endangered species, such as black rhinos, African wild dogs, and leopards. Established in 1993, Sango is more than just a wildlife sanctuary; it is a pioneering model of conservation that integrates community development and modern conservation practices.

At Sango, advanced technologies like AI-driven leopard recognition and GPS tracking for wild dogs are used in conjunction with community-led conservation efforts. Rangers, herders, and villagers work alongside conservationists to protect wildlife and benefit from ecotourism and sustainable livelihood programs. This combination of technology and local engagement ensures long-term success.

Thanks to rigorous anti-poaching efforts and advanced monitoring, black rhinos, which were once on the brink of extinction, are now making a recovery. The conservation efforts also extend to the local community. Community-based programs provide education, sustainable agriculture projects, and employment opportunities, while solar-powered camps and water filtration systems reduce environmental impact.

Sango is distinctive in that it demonstrates how wildlife conservation and human development can thrive together. Its holistic approach proves that the future of conservation lies in partnerships with local communities, serving as a model for other regions to replicate.

As a part of the larger Savé Valley Conservancy, Sango plays a crucial role in shaping conservation policy in Zimbabwe, with support from international partners like the CIC. The success of Sango has inspired similar initiatives across Africa, demonstrating that conservation and community welfare can coexist and flourish.