Namibia carnivore conservation & research project

Environment

With over a third of the world's cheetah population, Namibia is at the centre of the species' struggle for survival. It is estimated that 95% of cheetah numbers in Namibia live outside of protected areas of conservation, meaning that they are readily killed by farmers who view them as a threat to livestock. Because of this, cheetah numbers are falling, resulting in their endangerment – something which the project is addressing and trying to halt.

The Carnivore Conservation and Research Project focuses on reversing this pattern, aiming to alleviate existing human-wildlife conflict, through new approaches and assessing whether the translocation of cheetahs and leopards is a viable, long-term option for dealing with this conflict. The project locates proven 'problem carnivores', at risk of being killed and tracks their safe reintroduction into protected conservation areas. Volunteer in Namibia and you will play a vital role in this process of working up-close with these incredible cats, and thus actively contributing to their protection and conservation.

Whilst on the trip, you will be staying in a recently renovated farmhouse, which has been restored. This farmhouse has been, and still is, a part of the natural landscape and as it has become part of the environment in Kanaan it does not intrude upon the natural landscape. The farmhouse uses environmental measures, and we ask that guests please be conservative with resources, particularly water in this arid region.

Community

This project has a solid focus on the human-animal conflict and aims to build a better understanding between locals and the wild creatures found in Kanaan. Anti-poaching patrols also go on at the site, which volunteers will be expected to join.