ZWCF Funds Conservation South Luangwa’s Anti-Poaching K9 Unit with $10,000 Contribution

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Zambia Wildlife and Community Foundation (ZWCF)

April 2026

Strengthening Front-Line Wildlife Crime Detection in South Luangwa National Park, Zambia

The Zambia Wildlife and Community Foundation (ZWCF) has contributed US$10,000 to Conservation South Luangwa (CSL) to support its specialized anti-poaching K9 Unit in South Luangwa National Park, Zambia—a critical frontline tool in wildlife crime detection and enforcement.

This funding comes at a key time, helping sustain the operational capacity of one of the most effective wildlife protection units operating in South Luangwa National Park.

A Proven Anti-Poaching Tool in Zambia’s Wildlife Protection Efforts

Founded in 2014, CSL’s K9 Unit is Zambia’s first conservation detection dog team, working in close partnership with the Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW). The unit consists of trained handlers and detection dogs capable of identifying firearms, bushmeat, ivory, pangolin scales, big cat skins, ammunition, and illegally harvested timber.

Operating across roadblocks, property searches, and targeted enforcement operations, the K9 Unit plays a significant role in anti-poaching outcomes in South Luangwa National Park and surrounding areas. In 2025 alone, the unit contributed to:

• 21% of all wildlife crime arrests 

• 38% of confiscations 

• 13% of bushmeat seizures 

ZWCF’s contribution will directly support field operations, including patrol deployments, search operations, and continued operational readiness of the K9 Unit in South Luangwa.

Supporting Frontline Conservation in the Luangwa Valley

“Effective conservation depends on well-trained, well-equipped teams operating consistently in the field,” said Brooke Robertson, Zambia Wildlife and Community Foundation. “CSL’s K9 Unit is one of the most impactful tools in wildlife protection in South Luangwa National Park, and we are proud to support the work they are doing alongside DNPW.”

This contribution forms part of ZWCF’s ongoing support of frontline conservation partners in the Luangwa Valley, focused on strengthening the capacity and consistency of anti-poaching and wildlife protection efforts.

A Critical Landscape for Zambia’s Conservation Future

South Luangwa National Park is one of Africa’s most important wildlife conservation areas, known for its high biodiversity and as a stronghold for species such as leopard, elephant, lion, and wild dog. Protecting this landscape depends on sustained anti-poaching efforts, strong partnerships, and consistent operational support for frontline teams.

ZWCF’s work in the Luangwa Valley focuses on supporting the systems and partnerships that make long-term conservation possible—ensuring that wildlife protection programs are not only established, but consistently resourced and effective over time.

About Conservation South Luangwa

Conservation South Luangwa (CSL) works in partnership with the Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW) and local communities to protect wildlife and reduce illegal activity in South Luangwa National Park and surrounding areas. Their work includes anti-poaching operations, wildlife crime detection, community engagement, and conservation education. www.cslszambia.org

About the Zambia Wildlife and Community Foundation

The Zambia Wildlife and Community Foundation (ZWCF) is a US 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to conservation and community development across Zambia’s protected landscapes and Game Management Areas, supporting anti-poaching, wildlife protection, and community-driven conservation initiatives.