Sustainable Livelihoods
In Rufunsa, women face significant challenges: limited education opportunities, scarce access to clean water and healthcare, and the daily risks of living alongside wildlife. These vulnerabilities leave many women at risk of exploitation, including involvement in the illegal wildlife trade as a survival strategy.
Building Skills and Resilience
Game Rangers International works with five women’s groups (91 individuals) across Mphuka and Mburuma Chiefdoms to strengthen livelihoods and reduce dependence on unsustainable practices. Training includes:
-
Life skills: budgeting, nutrition, family planning, hygiene, and communication.
-
Conservation awareness: understanding how wildlife protection benefits communities long-term.
-
Leadership training: empowering women to take active roles in community natural resource governance.​
​
​
​
Alternative Livelihoods
To provide reliable alternatives to poaching and the bushmeat trade, women’s groups are engaged in Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs) and supported with sustainable livelihood opportunities, including:
-
Goat rearing
-
Poultry production
-
Tailoring
These initiatives promote financial independence and resilience, while also enhancing household food security and reducing reliance on unsustainable practices.
Wider Impact
Empowered women become role models, passing knowledge and skills on to their families and communities. By fostering independence, confidence, and leadership, the programme helps break cycles of poverty and exploitation, while placing women at the heart of conservation.
​
