Sleeping with the rhinos

The rangers play an integral role in the system that is Borana. Their purpose is the conservation of the many animals that Borana harbours, possibly most importantly, Rhinos. These magnificent beasts are under constant threat from an ever-growing international crime network driven by the illegal trade in Rhino horn. This is on the rise due to the soaring price that can be obtained for the horns, sometimes up to The $100,000 per kg. This provides incentives for the relatively poor locals to make money.

This frightening figure is perhaps the reason for the fact that in Kenya in 2014 33 rhinos were killed, contributing to the threat of their extinction. This figure is in danger of increasing without the combined cooperation and multi faceted approach provided by the anti-poaching and monitoring patrols, community conservation and environmental education schemes provided locally and on a governmental scale. This is where William Kiupe aka ‘Sierra One’ comes into his own. His role is one of the senior rangers at Borana, Laikipia County, Kenya, in charge of a total of 20 men whose job it is to protect not only the Rhino but also any animal that is of value to this disgusting trade. After speaking to William the impression of the job that they do is that it is demanding yet incredibly rewarding, but at the same time instilling huge pride into the men involved.

A night in the life of a ranger…

At 5pm every night after a hearty meal, 20 well trained and armed men are deployed in groups of 5, not scared but excited about what the night might hold, head out into the bush to locations that are constantly changing with the movement of the Rhinos and therefore potential threats given to them by scouts and community intelligence. They are to be out there for 13 hours. With an hour of light left, these intrepid men are wrapped up warm in order to face the inevitable low temperatures that they will face after the sun drops. Once in position near the Rhino, they listen for their whereabouts and movements by the sound of them eating. With 85% of the rangers being local their eyes and ears are tuned to the local habitat ready to react to any potential threats.

A high level of constant concentration is required. On the occasions when the men have to face up to the threats, they feel confident and also excitement, as this is what their special forces training has taught them to do, and afterwards they are filled with a sense of fulfilment and pride. Their job is by no means in vain as they play a huge role in saving many beautiful rhinos’ lives.

This is possible with the support of tourists, particularly at Borana where a large percentage of the money taken is re-distributed towards further conservation.

Find out more about Borana Lodge here