Rare-Earth Sanctuary
Wildlife poaching is a devastating crime that threatens the very fabric of our natural world. The use of poisons such as cyanide has become a deadly tool for poachers, enabling them to kill numerous animals without the need for firearms or the support of criminal networks. This method not only endangers targeted species like elephants but also drives endangered vultures toward extinction, impacting the delicate balance of ecosystems.
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RareEARTH Sanctuaries & Foundation will make a significant impact in Africa’s fight against extinction by supporting initiatives like AKASHINGA.Â
The RareEARTH HAVEN
Why It Matters
The RareEARTH HAVEN highlights the urgent need to protect elephants, lions, and rhinos, three of the world’s most iconic yet endangered species. Africa’s elephant population has plummeted from 12 million a century ago to around 400,000 today, with more than 20,000 killed annually for ivory, while Asian elephants face mounting habitat loss and human conflict. Lions, once abundant across Africa, have declined by over 40% in just three generations, leaving only about 20,000 in the wild and three-quarters of populations in decline due to shrinking habitats, conflict with people, and illegal trade. Rhinos, previously saved from near extinction, are once again under siege from highly organized poaching networks driven by the illegal rhino horn trade, especially in Asia. Together, these declines underscore the critical mission of RareEARTH HAVEN: to safeguard keystone species, combat wildlife crime, and preserve the balance of our planet’s ecosystems.
Akashinga
The Brave Ones
RareEARTH Sanctuaries & Foundation will make a significant impact in Africa’s fight against extinction by supporting initiatives like AKASHINGA. Akashinga, founded in Zimbabwe by Damien Mander, a former Australian special forces soldier and anti-poaching leader, is a game-changer. Composed of women rangers from marginalized backgrounds, Akashinga is redefining conservation by prioritizing community involvement over armed conflict. This innovative approach not only protects animals but also empowers communities and transforms the lives of its members. The documentary “AKASHINGA: THE BRAVE ONES,” executive produced by James Cameron and directed by Maria Wilhelm, showcases the bravery, conservation efforts, and unconventional strategies that are driving positive change in wildlife protection.