Online Reporter
Raymond Jaravaza, Zimpapers Reporter
THE country’s anti-poaching drive has received a shot in the arm after Emirates SkyCargo partnered with Dogs 4 Wildlife, a UK-based charity, to deploy two specialist dogs that will work alongside wildlife park rangers to track poachers and strengthen conservation efforts at the Matusadona National Park.
The first phase of the partnership will see Emirates SkyCargo transport dogs from the UK to Southern Africa.
Badr Abbas, Divisional Senior Vice President, Emirates SkyCargo said the two dogs – Vega and Kuda – both Belgian Malinois, are scheduled to travel from London to Harare via Dubai in late June and will be deployed at Zimbabwe’s Matusadona National Park on their arrival.
Selected for their exceptional drive, determination, and natural tracking abilities, Vega and Kuda will help form a new conservation K9 unit supporting wildlife protection efforts in Zimbabwe.
“Protecting wildlife is a shared responsibility that requires collaboration, innovation, and long-term commitment. Through our partnership with Dogs 4 Wildlife, we are proud to support the deployment of highly trained conservation dogs, such as Vega and Kuda, across conservation initiatives.
“These animals will play a vital role in protecting endangered species and strengthening conservation efforts on the ground. This partnership reflects Emirates SkyCargo’s broader commitment to combatting illegal wildlife trade and supporting organisations that are creating meaningful impact for wildlife and global communities,” said Mr Abbas.
Through its specialist live animal transportation services, the airline will provide reliable and welfare-focused transportation for the two dogs.
Mr Darren Priddle, the founder and volunteer trustee of Dogs 4 Wildlife, said: “We are incredibly proud to be partnering with Emirates SkyCargo on this important initiative. The deployment of conservation dogs such as Vega and Kuda represents far more than the transportation of two animals; it represents the movement of specialist conservation capability that will directly support wildlife rangers working on the front line of wildlife protection.
“At Dogs 4 Wildlife, our mission is to protect endangered species by providing highly trained conservation dogs and supporting the dedicated people who work tirelessly to safeguard wildlife every day. Having the support of a global organisation such as Emirates enables us to expand that impact and deliver proven conservation tools to the areas where they are needed most. This partnership demonstrates what can be achieved when organisations from different sectors come together with a shared commitment to protecting wildlife for future generations.”
