AS Wildlife officers adorned the the colors of nature’s camouflage, blending the shades of forest green, earthy browns and khaki gold, celebrating their courage and hard-work, the call for equal treatment and recognition of these officer’s bravery and dedication grew louder.
Amidst the commemoration of World Rangers Day and recognition of the sacrifices made by these men and women, there is a renewed push for recognition and support, with government being urged to acknowledge the unique and essential role that wildlife rangers play in protecting Zambia’s precious biodiversity and the safety for its citizens.
National Parks and Wildlife Director Dominic Chiinda stated that the rangers deserve to be treated with the same respect and appreciation as the military, police and other security wings.
Chiinda identified a pressing concern surrounding inadequate housing for the rangers, expressing deep concern over its detrimental impact on their overall welfare and performance.
He emphasised the urgent need for improved housing solutions for officers, stating that their security and effectiveness is dependent on having access to safe, comfortable living conditions.
“Providing us with well equipped barracks will be a gesture of respect and recognition for the role we play in protecting our country’s natural resources. We need barracks like other security forces have,” he said.
He further insisted on the need for swift action in implementing the approved salary structure and compensation for wildlife rangers, highlighting the vital role these officers play in safeguarding Zambia’s wildlife and the need for fair compensation for their efforts.
“We must expedite the implementation of the approved new structure and salary scales for our wildlife rangers. These brave individuals risk their lives daily to safeguard our natural heritage, and it is only fair that we reward their service with commensurate compensation,” he urged.
Chiinda further emphasised essential steps necessary for safeguarding the rangers’ welfare including, increased investment in ranger equipment, comprehensive medical coverage among others.
However, World Ranger Day is a day to honor the men and women who daily devote their lives and time to protect Zambia’s natural resources, which are the country’s cherished inheritance and heritage for everyone in the present day and for future generations.
The day is also used to remember the fallen heroes who either lost their lives or were permanently injured in the course of duty.
The 2025 World Ranger Day was commemorated under the theme: ‘Rangers, powering transformative conservation.’
By Sharon Zulu
Kalemba August 1, 2025
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