Defend

Our Purpose

Defend is an international wildlife charity transforming conservation management to give urgent and lasting protection to biodiversity, wildlife, landscapes and people. 

Our Mission

We combine innovative technology, professional law enforcement and targeted economic incentives to provide long-term, high impact solutions to: 

- reduce wildlife crime

- protect biodiversity

- build climate resilience

- strengthen local economies

- enable true community empowerment

in communities living near the world’s most threatened landscapes.

Chizarira National Park, Zimbabwe

Our partnership with the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority has totally transformed Chizarira National Park, reducing elephant poaching by a staggering 90%. For a beautiful pictorial summary of our achievements, please enjoy flicking through our 5 year report: 

Chizarira 5 Year Report

In 2024 we signed a 20 year agreement to co-manage Chizarira National Park, bringing security and stability to this spectacular park and its wildlife, and providing stable jobs and trade to the communities that surround it until the year 2045. 

Scaling Up

Now, we are taking our proven model for conservation and scaling up to other national parks and protected areas in Africa, and we would love you to be a part of our journey.

Testimonials

“The elephant population was doomed to extinction if it was not for your timely anti-poaching intervention.” Dr Robert Guldemond, Elephant Specialist.

“I have no doubt that this partnership will yield tangible results. I commend Dr. Niall McCann and his team for their initiative in partnering with us and contributing to our shared vision and goals.” Dr Fulton Mangwanya, Director General, Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority.

“I have no hesitation in recommending Defend to partner with in the fight against wildlife crime.” Brighton Kumchedwa, Director of National Parks and Wildlife, Malawi.