Since 1990 Tusk has built a reputation for identifying and investing in some of Africa’s most successful conservation initiatives – affording greater protection for 10 million acres of land and 43 different threatened species; instigating flagship community programmes; and investing significant sums in education across the continent.

As well as protecting African elephants, rhinos and lions, Tusk’s projects are playing a critical role in the survival of cheetahs, chimpanzees, eastern lowland and Cross River gorillas, painted dogs, Grevy’s zebras, giant sables, Cape vultures, Alaotran gentle lemurs, Hawksbill turtles, and many more.

Sadly some of the challenges remain as great today as they were over 26 years ago. The poaching crisis often hits the headlines, and Tusk is once again at the forefront of efforts to tackle the illegal wildlife trade. We supports the anti-poaching patrols of 450 game guards across 30 community-led initiatives from Mali to Zimbabwe, successfully overcoming the poaching threat in many of these areas. We also back international initiatives to secure greater government-led action on tackling the illegal wildlife trade, and to reduce demand for elephant ivory and rhino horn in the consumer countries.

Meanwhile, the rapid rate of human population growth is causing greater consumption of natural resources, further loss of habitat, and increased human-wildlife conflict. Tackling these challenges also remain at the heart of Tusk’s work

Under the Royal Patronage of HRH The Duke of Cambridge, Tusk’s experience and success in linking wildlife conservation with sustainable rural development and education makes it well placed to respond efficiently to these rising challenges.

Where Tusk has invested, we continue to witness very significant progress that provides real hope for the future. With further support, Tusk can and will continue to make a lasting difference in Africa.