


Cindy Walbridge
Dec 17, 2021
South Africa
Categories:
Environment, Wildlife, Female Empowerment
My daughter is Kenyan and suggested I research the women she read about who became one of the many all-women anti-poaching units around Africa. There is one such group of women in Kenya called Team Lioness, and they have reduced poaching significantly. I was intrigued. My research led me to another group called the Black Mambas, an all-female anti-poaching unit founded in 2013. There are 23 young rangers and seven environmental monitors in the Black Mambas. Their aim to protect the Balule Nature Reserve's black rhinos and serve as role models to their communities caught my attention. The name of the group was too amazing not to read more. Most readers likely know the black mamba is also the most dangerous snake in Africa. What are these women doing that likens them to snakes?
The Black Mambas are young women who have probably completed high school but have not entered the job market. They are from communities surrounding the Nature Reserve. Their opportunities for good work or any work at all in their hometowns are minimal. The Black Mambas have achieved a 63% reduction (in other more current research, they have reached an 89% reduction) in poaching incidents in their area of operation since being formed. The Mambas walk 20km every day, checking the perimeter fences for signs of incursions. The Black Mambas are unarmed, and they are backed up by armed patrol units when they detect active poaching. Photographer Julia Gunther documented the Black Mambas APU (anti-poaching unit). She said about the women that "For all of them, the love for nature and its conservation runs deep. Their ethos is to protect this heritage of wildlife."
These women came for a job and stayed because of their dedication and mission. They are protecting the dignity of their homeland, protecting African resources, and becoming resilient, more competent, and more knowledgeable women in their communities.
Many female heroes in communities worldwide are quietly making a positive difference. Most of their accomplishments go unnoticed. How can you showcase the women in your community and promote awareness of their role in making your community a better place? It is simple to do, and there are many benefits. One, it gives much-needed recognition to the women who work selflessly. Two, it promotes the need and value of service to others. It encourages other people, both women, and men, to follow suit and helps to establish a community-wide ethic of service. Third, it is a powerful role model for young women and girls to reach further in their studies, help others, and become leaders in their own right. Knowing that other women have accomplished things that are considered non-traditional for women is quite empowering. Finally, It's an inspiring story, especially so, since this is not a traditional role for women. Dare to be different and follow your passion. The world is waiting for you.
Begin where you are. You will likely be well received. The initial discovery of where your quiet leaders are working will open up creative paths to building support (both human and financial) and the means to promote awareness.
For more information about the Black Mambas please visit: https://www.google.com/www.blackmambas.org
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Catalog #:
1121.107.01.121721