SAVE VALLEY CONSERVANCY – On the impoverished edges of a conservancy that protects wildlife in southeastern Zimbabwe, 14-year-old Esther Bote wakes up at dawn to a practiced daily routine.

Living on the outskirts of a wildlife conservancy comes with its challenges. Esther’s daily routine involves navigating thick forests and bush paths on her 5-kilometer walk to school, where dangerous animals could be lurking. Despite the risks, Esther continues her journey, fueled by both fear and determination.

In a region plagued by droughts exacerbated by climate change, humans and animals are competing for scarce resources. This competition has led to wildlife encroaching on human settlements, posing a threat to the local population. Esther and her peers now receive basic lessons in animal behavior to help them navigate this new reality.

Attuned to the signs of danger, Esther and her friends recently reported elephant footprints to a wildlife ranger, preventing a potential conflict. The Save Valley Conservancy and the country’s parks agency have been training schoolchildren like Esther on recognizing danger signs and coexisting with wildlife, equipping them with essential skills for survival.

Acknowledging the importance of educating the younger generation, the conservancy aims to instill a sense of coexistence and respect for wildlife in children. By empowering them with knowledge and skills, the community hopes to foster a harmonious relationship between humans and animals.

The program has already made a positive impact, with children identifying animal tracks, sounds, and learning how to stay safe in the presence of wild animals. Through initiatives like these, communities are working towards peaceful cohabitation with wildlife.