Conservation Watch Unravelling the threads of snaring in Kruger park The air is crisp, carrying with it the promise of discovery — a perfect morning for twitchers and game-spotters. Dry leaves crunch underfoot. Then, from a distance, whistles blow and walkie-talkies screech: snare alert! Every 50 metres or so, there’s another one. By the end of the day, 65 snares will have been found and […] Written by rovingreporters November 7, 2024November 8, 2024
Tipping Points Well saved: How savings groups help build climate resilience Access to finance is vital in building resilience to a rapidly changing environment. But experts warn that while savings groups offer a lifeline, deeper systemic reforms are essential to tackle the root causes of vulnerability and poverty. By Roving Reporters and Kemunto Ogutu Talk about saving for a rainy day. Katrina Rooi reckons it’s made […] Written by rovingreporters November 6, 2024November 8, 2024
Journalism Projects Roots of change: Nourishing hope in the Greater Kruger Deep in the Greater Kruger landscapes, a vibrant, youth led eco-village is uniting community and conservation efforts By Buntu Duku A few years ago, Katekani Martin Mathabele, a young man from the village of Sigagule, found himself in a tense standoff with a pack of African wild dogs. On a crisp winter afternoon, Mathabele and […] Written by rovingreporters September 8, 2024September 8, 2024
Conservation Watch Breaking barriers in conservation: A two-part series on inspiring change Part 1. Unveiling the “teach naked” concept: Energising youth for environmental change To engage the next generation in environmental action, educators are adopting innovative methods that transcend traditional classroom boundaries. In this first instalment, we explore the “teach naked” concept advocated by animal behaviourist Aliza le Roux. This experiential learning approach encourages educators to step […] Written by rovingreporters August 27, 2024August 27, 2024
Conservation Watch Unveiling the “teach naked” concept: Energising youth for environmental change To inspire young people to truly connect with nature, environmental educators should move beyond traditional classroom methods and embrace the “teach naked” approach. Photo: Pxhere.com By Fred Kockott and Fortunate Mathonsi Want youngsters to embrace nature and all its wonders? Then ditch traditional classroom habits, venture into wild spaces — even if that’s just stepping […] Written by rovingreporters August 14, 2024August 27, 2024
Tipping Points Why we miss out if we don’t involve women in conservation Discover why conservation efforts fall short without women’s voices and how their unique contributions are vital to saving our planet. Women are increasingly taking on dynamic leadership roles in conservation, breaking stereotypes, overcoming barriers, and driving impactful change — but it often comes with significant personal cost and sacrifice. By Matthew Hattingh and Siziwe Hlongwa […] Written by rovingreporters August 6, 2024August 27, 2024
Conservation Watch Journalism Projects From panic to partnerships: New thinking on people and poaching We must choose our words more carefully if we are to get to grips with the illegal wildlife trade and contribute meaningfully to much-needed debates. By Roving Reporters Criminologist and wildlife economy fundi, Dr Annette Hübschle calls it one of her “biggest a-ha moments”. Sitting in a circle of about 10 people in a community […] Written by rovingreporters June 20, 2024July 9, 2024
Tipping Points Unpacking new biodiversity strategy: Optimism meets scepticism Wildlife economist calls it well-meaning but thin on detail By Roving Reporters A new government plan for preserving and harnessing the country’s biodiverse but threatened plant and animal life is well intentioned but the victim of back-to-front thinking. It pays scant attention to the potential of rhino horn and elephant ivory to fund conservation and […] Written by rovingreporters June 10, 2024June 10, 2024
Tipping Points Parties offer platitudes as the climate crisis deepens and water woes worsen In the midst of political alliances with coal lobbyists, environmentalists are urging strategic voting and active citizenship to address the deepening climate crisis and stave off the collapse of natural systems. By Roving Reporters and Kemunto Ogutu. First publishd by Daily Maverick. Voting is crucial, but South Africa’s political parties are falling short on addressing […] Written by rovingreporters May 3, 2024June 10, 2024
Training Rethinking reporting on wildlife crime Dive into this riveting exchange among seasoned journalists, wildlife crime researchers and emerging environmental writers . . . Written by rovingreporters April 22, 2024April 27, 2024