Country/Region: Zambia
Partner: International Crane Foundation (ICF)
The Kafue Flats in southern Zambia are globally recognized for their rich wetland biodiversity, yet many wildlife species are experiencing alarming declines. Iconic species such as African Buffalo, Plains Zebra, and Blue Wildebeest are now at critical risk of local extinction.
With Fondation Segré’s support, the International Crane Foundation successfully completed a 3-year habitat restoration project for Kafue Lechwe and Wattled Cranes during the first phase, removing 2’305 hectares of the invasive woody shrub Mimosa pigra using an integrated approach that benefitted wildlife and improved the ecological health of the Kafue Flats. However, the future of wildlife on the Kafue Flats remains threatened by poaching pressures driven by urban demand for bushmeat and fish.
During the second phase of this project, the International Crane Foundation, in partnership with the Endangered Wildlife Trust, has made significant progress by doubling the number of law enforcement personnel deployed in the region, training and equipping 55 new Community Scouts, and improving infrastructure, vehicles, and communications. These measures, combined with the SMART patrolling system, have drastically reduced poaching, creating the safest conditions for wildlife on the Flats in decades.
Fondation Segré is renewing its support for 2025 to sustain and build on these achievements. The project will continue to strengthen anti-poaching law enforcement at Lochinvar and Blue Lagoon National Parks, ensuring that endemic Kafue Lechwe, Wattled Cranes, Grey Crowned Cranes, and other wildlife thrive on the Kafue Flats for generations to come.
You can read more about our support to the Phase I of the project HERE.
