Honoring The Rangers

I came across an article in the telegraph with the title “Prince William honors rhino ranger after Cecil shooting.” The article wrote, “Prince William saluted Nderitu in a letter of congratulation that described the honor as “richly deserved” – and praised him for “the extraordinary contribution you and your team at the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy have made towards the protection of wildlife and increased security for the rural communities of northern Kenya.” First and foremost good work Nderitu!

Edward Nderitu with his Tusk wildlife ranger award. 

Many at times we take some jobs for granted one of them being a ranger. I must say it is no easy task. Rangers control, supervise and manage national parks, scenic areas, historic sites, nature reserves and other recreational areas. These individuals deserve all the credit they can get. I mean their job is one of the most dangerous jobs in the world. Moreover they are learned individuals. To be able to understand an animal, its needs and its environment is a combination of being a veterinary doctor and biologist. That to me is genius, well mostly because I was terrible at science.

Some of the tasks they have to carry out are to capture and relocate potentially dangerous animals. For example in situations where these wild animals cross over to human settlement areas the rangers are called upon to return the wild animal back to the park. Another thing they do is to care for sick, injured or orphaned animals. They ensure that these animals are well fed and cared for in the period they are unwell and only let them go after they have ensured the animal is in complete good health.They have to also be socially equipped so at to be able to relate with the various people who come to view these wild animals. They ensure park visitors follow laws and procedures relating to wildlife.

Being a ranger requires heart, passion and love for the wild. The few rangers I got to meet in my travel were such delightful people. They have accepted the animals as their families and do their best to ensure their safety and protection from all those who wish to harm them.

Which brings me back to Edward Nderitu , a ranger who has put his best foot forward in ensuring that the rhinos in his park are protected. He is employed as the head of the anti-poaching unit and the northern rangelands trust. His response to the award given to him was his gratitude for the recognition of his team and the support he received from the people around him. Lewa’s CEO describe him as a committed, integral and an outstanding leader with a fierce sense of fairness. Edward is set to visit London to receive his award in November. Congratulations Edward!

Well Edward is just an example of these courageous men who have dedicated their time and livelihood to serving and protecting our heritage. I salute all the rangers and game wardens in all national parks and game reserves. They are ultimately a very crucial part of our ecosystem.

This video below is to show you how dangerous this job really is:

 By Mercy Sigey


image credit:www.telegraph.co.uk