Vision and Goals
The Water for Wildlife project aims to reduce the devastating impact of drought and extended dry seasons on Africa’s wildlife. By supporting the maintenance and operation of key water points in protected areas, such as Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe, this project helps alleviate water stress and helps ensure that elephants and other wildlife have consistent access to one of their most essential needs.
Our vision is to create a more stable and humane environment for wildlife by securing water access across critical landscapes. In doing so, we not only support animal welfare but also strengthen biodiversity and ecosystem resilience, allowing wildlife to flourish even during the harshest dry periods.
Partners
Global Humane Conservation Fund of Africa is proud to partner with Friends of Hwange Trust, a conservation nonprofit dedicated to safeguarding the well-being of wildlife in Hwange National Park through sustainable water management. Since 2005, Friends of Hwange has pioneered the use of solar technology to maintain eco-friendly, reliable water points throughout the park. Our support builds on this foundation, ensuring the continued operation of five strategically located pans that serve as lifelines for thousands of animals each day.
Project in Action
Hwange National Park is Zimbabwe’s largest protected area, spanning more than 14,600 square kilometers, and is a key stronghold for elephants and other wildlife within the KAZA Transfrontier Conservation Area, the world’s largest terrestrial transboundary conservation landscape. Despite its size and biodiversity, Hwange faces critical water shortages during the long dry season from May to November. Without human intervention, natural water sources can dry up completely, leading to widespread wildlife stress and mortality.
Global Humane Conservation Fund of Africa is supporting the maintenance of several essential water points within Hwange: Dom Pan, Nyamandlovhu Pan, Boss Long One, Guvalala Pan, Shapi, White Hills, Kennedy 2 Pan and Sedina. These eco-friendly systems ensure reliable access to water while minimizing environmental impact. Together, these pans support an estimated 10,000 elephants and countless other species each day, representing 5% of the park’s total water sources and covering 20% of Friends of Hwange’s operational area.
Each site features solar-powered boreholes and, in some cases, battery storage for nighttime pumping, ensuring water remains available in the cooler hours. Daily monitoring ensures systems remain functional, water levels are maintained, and any elephants and wildlife in distress are identified and assisted. Flow meters are used to track usage and help guide adaptive water management strategies, while road maintenance and trough repairs ensure safe and consistent access.
This work is especially vital during increasingly unpredictable rainy seasons, where borehole recharge and daily consumption must be carefully balanced. By helping to ensure sustainable water access year-round, our Water for Wildlife project plays a crucial role in protecting Hwange National Park’s ecosystem and the wildlife that depends on it.
