Zambeze Delta Safaris' Anti-Poaching Ranger Training (5-minute Video)

Mark Haldane, director of Zambeze Delta Safaris (ZDS), accepts that funding remains the perpetual challenge facing comprehensive anti-poaching operations in Mozambique. The reality is stark: safari operations alone simply don't generate sufficient revenue to sustain both a profitable business and the extensive conservation efforts his organization pursues at the community level.

Despite these financial constraints, ZDS has found ways to make significant conservation investments. The company reinvests approximately USD100,000 annually from hunting revenue directly back into anti-poaching activities. This substantial reinvestment has been supplemented by crucial support from clients, friends, and established hunting organizations.

The Safari Club International (SCI), Safari Club International Foundation (SCIF), Shikar Safari Club, Dallas Safari Club Foundation, the Weatherby Foundation, and Houston Safari Club have all provided essential funding support. These partnerships have enabled ZDS to achieve its current conservation impact.

Central to the organization's anti-poaching success is its comprehensive training program.

Haldane views training as fundamental to maintaining ranger effectiveness. It keeps personnel motivated, sharp, and current with evolving technology and methodologies.

Most importantly, proper training maintains discipline and motivation among the anti-poaching teams.

The organization conducts at least one selection course annually, partly to replace personnel but also as a community development initiative.