Visiting the headquarters of Conservation South Luangwa

Countless vicious snares are coiled around the three wooden stakes in front of the main building. Each of these cruel traps has been confiscated by Conservation South Luangwa (CSL) in the course of their patrols during the past 10 years. And each snare here represents the life of some animal in the wild that did not die a tortuous death, or survive with crippling injuries.

Sadly, Rachel had to cancel our meeting due to a death in the family, so Benson has volunteered to give me the tour. Outside, it’s over 40 degrees (104 F) . Inside the office, a tired ceiling fan recirculates the heated air.

One wall of the office is filled by a large map of the National Park. The map is full of colorful spots designating successful patrols and rescued animals. For the next hour and a half, I receive an impression of the complex activities of the CSL. Benson describes the challenges and difficulties faced daily by members of the CSL. He also tells me about success stories that motivate everyone to continue the good work. Of course, the organization cannot run solely on success stories. Financial support is paramount to the functioning of the organization.

Donations that we would consider small in Europe or America can be tremendously helpful in Zambia. For example, the proceeds from the sale of one single wildlife photo calendar can finance the daily provisions for a six member anti-poaching patrol team. Three days in a row! Some people support the CSL with donations of old (but functioning) cell phones, flashlights, binoculars, etc. Many things that we don’t use anymore can be of great service in the bush. If you would like to know more, please contact me.

The South Luangwa Conservation Society is a non-profit NGO that has, for over 10 years, been dedicated to the protection and conservation of flora and fauna in the Luangwa Valley. The CSL plays an important role in combatting poachers.
The organization, headed by Rachel McRobb and Benson Kenyembo, employs a team of 54 people, all members of the local community.

The CSL employees are active in the following roles:
– Leading and supporting the anti-poaching patrols of the ZAWA
– Wild animal rescue and veterinary care
– Supporting the local population in conflicts with wild animals
– Campaigns against the setting of snare traps.

CSL is a non-profit organisation. All operations are supported by financial donations.