By Kovedzayi Takawira
Harare – As Zimbabwe joins the rest of the world in commemorating World Rangers Day, two rangers from the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks) are fighting for their lives in a Harare clinic following a brutal elephant attack in the Sengwa-Chirisa Safari Area.
According to a press statement issued by ZimParks spokesperson Tinashe Farawo, the incident occurred on 29 July after the rangers were deployed to investigate a report of a snared buffalo believed to pose a threat to nearby communities.
“On their way, they encountered a herd of elephants with calves which charged at them, forcing them to flee in different directions,” said Farawo.
One ranger suffered a broken arm while fleeing, while the other was gored by an elephant, sustaining serious abdominal injuries and multiple fractures to his arm and leg.
Both rangers were airlifted to Harare and admitted to a private clinic, where they are currently receiving treatment.
“One ranger’s broken arm has been attended to and he is in stable condition. The other underwent a successful abdominal operation and is currently in theatre for surgery on his broken left arm and leg,” Farawo said in an update today.
This year’s World Rangers Day is being commemorated under the theme: “Rangers, Powering Transformative Conservation.”
The theme acknowledges the critical role rangers play not only in protecting wildlife but also in leading change and shaping the future of conservation efforts.
“It is also a day to remember those who have lost their lives in the line of duty and those who remain missing,” the ZimParks statement read.
The Authority also highlighted the dangers rangers face in the field
“Rangers work across vast landscapes, often spending weeks in the bush under dangerous conditions, battling harsh weather and with limited resources. Despite these challenges, they press on with strength and dedication, knowing their work makes a difference.”
CITES Secretary-General Ivonne Higuero, also paid tribute to the dedication of wildlife rangers, noting that “behind every species conserved is a ranger whose story often goes untold.”
“These rangers are more than guardians of wildlife they are parents, mentors, and environmental stewards whose daily work, often out of sight, is essential to conserving wildlife for future generations. Today, we honour their stories and contribution to global conservation,” she said.
President of the International Ranger Federation ChrisGalliers, echoed the call for support and recognition for rangers worldwide.
“Let’s honour these quiet heroes and work collectively to improve their safety, effectiveness, and recognition because if they don’t protect our natural world, who will?” he said.
