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Building initiatives for a sustainable future requires more than ideas — it requires people, partnerships and conversations that turn those ideas into action. At the 2026 Matabeleland North Provincial Agricultural Show, Painted Dog Conservation joined a diverse range of exhibitors, organisations and stakeholders in bringing their work closer to communities under the theme, “Building Initiatives for a Sustainable Future”. For us, the show provided an opportunity to share the story of painted dogs, raise awareness about the threats they face and engage visitors on the importance of protecting wildlife and the landscapes we share. From conservation education and community engagement to promoting coexistence between people and wildlife, platforms such as these help take conservation beyond protected areas and into the communities that are central to its success. A sustainable future for wildlife is built together — through knowledge, collaboration and shared responsibility. #painteddogconservation #painteddogs #MatabelelandNorth #conservation #sustainablefuture #wildlifeconservation #communityconservation #conservationeducation

Investing in people is investing in the future of painted dog conservation. As part of the Painted Wolf Conservation Leadership Programme, Painted Dog Conservation was proud to host the latest cohort of emerging African conservation leaders for an intensive period of practical learning and knowledge exchange in Zimbabwe. Building on their field experience in Zambia's South Luangwa landscape, the cohort joined our teams to gain hands-on experience in wildlife research, ecological monitoring, community engagement and conservation approaches that have helped protect painted dogs for decades. The Painted Wolf Conservation Leadership Programme, a partnership between the Painted Wolf Foundation, the Zambian Carnivore Programme and Painted Dog Conservation, is strengthening conservation across Africa by equipping young conservationists with the practical skills, scientific knowledge and leadership needed to protect painted dogs wherever they occur. By sharing expertise across landscapes and borders, we are helping build a new generation of African conservation leaders committed to securing the future of one of the continent's most endangered species. #painteddogconservation #painteddogs #ConservationLeadership #wildlifeconservation #KnowledgeExchange #africa @paintedwolf_org @zcp_zambia

Building stronger communities to secure a future for wildlife. Conservation extends beyond protected areas. It is also about creating opportunities for the people who share the landscape with wildlife. The official opening of the Uncommon Painted Dog Conservation Innovation Hub in Gwayi marks an important milestone in that journey. Established through a partnership between Uncommon and Painted Dog Conservation, the Hub equips young people with digital, entrepreneurial and innovation skills, helping to create sustainable livelihood opportunities while strengthening community participation in conservation. Communities play a vital role in protecting painted dogs and the ecosystems they depend on. By investing in education, technology and local enterprise, we are helping to build a future where both people and wildlife can thrive. We extend our sincere appreciation to the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Matabeleland North, Honourable Richard Moyo, for officially commissioning the Innovation Hub, and to Painted Dog Conservation Board Chairman, Senator Jerry Gotora, whose leadership and shared vision continue to strengthen the link between conservation, education and community development. And the Uncommon leadership, all the traditional leaders, local leadership and stakeholders that graced the event. Together, we are investing in people, protecting landscapes, and securing a future for painted dogs. #painteddogconservation #InnovationForConservation #communityconservation #conservationeducation #DigitalSkills #YouthEmpowerment #SustainableLivelihoods #protectingpainteddogs #conservation #Zimbabwe

Reducing vehicle speeds is a critical step towards protecting one of Zimbabwe's most endangered species. Our painted dog population stands at barely 700 adults across the country, and less than 7000 on the entire Continent of Africa. Vehicle collisions remain one of the leading threats to painted dogs, particularly along the Gwayi section of the Bulawayo–Victoria Falls Highway, where the Umkhonto Pack have chosen to den this year. Emergency measures were called for by our team, who are monitoring the pack around the clock, as they frequently cross the road on hunting forays and to drink. Our appeals have been heard, and the installation of these temporary rumble strips has begun. This critical road safety intervention that encourages motorists to slow down, reduces the risk of collisions for painted dogs and other wildlife while improving safety for all road users. Painted Dog Conservation sincerely acknowledges the support of the Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development in advancing this initiative, as well as the leadership of our Chairman, Hon. Senator Jerry Gotora, whose continued commitment to collaborative conservation is helping deliver practical solutions for wildlife protection. Every driver has a role to play. Slowing down through wildlife crossing areas can make the difference between life and death. #painteddogconservation #RoadSafety #wildlifeconservation #painteddogs #ProtectWildlife #Zimbabwe #ConservationInAction

Every patrol begins long before wildlife is seen. This World Ranger Day, we honour the dedication, resilience and quiet commitment of the rangers who work every day to protect painted dogs, conserve all wildlife and safeguard the landscapes they call home. From monitoring wildlife and removing snares to spending long hours in the field, every step they take helps secure a future where painted dogs and countless other species can continue to thrive. Their work is often unseen, but its impact is lasting. Today, we also remember the rangers around the world who lost their lives in the line of duty, and we stand with those who continue this vital work with courage, professionalism and hope. Because every patrol matters. Happy World Ranger Day. #WorldRangerDay #everypatrolmatters #painteddogconservation #painteddogs #wildlifeconservation #ProtectWildlife #rangers #Zimbabwe

Today, on World Nature Conservation Day, we join the global call to strengthen grassroots action for biodiversity conservation, ecosystem restoration and the sustainable stewardship of our natural resources. Protecting nature requires collective action. Every patrol, every partnership, every community engagement and every conservation action contributes to healthier ecosystems and a more secure future for endangered painted dogs and the many species that share these landscapes. As we mark this day, we recognise the dedication of rangers, researchers, communities, partners and supporters whose commitment continues to advance conservation where it matters most—on the ground. Together, we are building resilient landscapes where wildlife and people can thrive. #WorldNatureConservationDay #painteddogconservation #biodiversity #EcosystemRestoration #wildlifeconservation #natureconservation #ConservationInAction #Zimbabwe

Before first light, the work has already begun. As the first rays of sunlight reach the Gwayi landscape, our research team is already tracking the Umkhonto Pack, monitoring their movements and gathering critical information to better understand and protect Zimbabwe’s endangered painted dogs. Every signal received helps guide conservation decisions that safeguard one of Zimbabwe’s important painted dog populations. Photo Credit: @carminevisuals #painteddogs #africanwilddogs #WildlifeResearch #conservationscience #protectpainteddogs #ConservationInAction #endangeredspecies #wildlifeconservation #savingspecies

WE'RE IN! 💪🐾 Painted Dog Conservation is proud to be taking part in this year's #WildlifeRangerChallenge! Climate change, human-wildlife conflict and growing human populations continue to threaten Africa's wildlife. Rangers are on the front line of protecting these precious ecosystems, but increasing pressures and funding gaps are making their work more challenging than ever. Today, our two teams—the all-female Vusile and the all-male MK/Abangane—completed their #WRC quiz, officially kicking off their journey to the main Wildlife Ranger Challenge on 19 September 2026! Over the coming weeks, they'll be training, fundraising and preparing to take on the challenge in support of wildlife rangers and the critical conservation work they do every day. You can help make a difference. Support our teams, spread the word and help us raise vital funds #ForWildlifeRangers: https://wildlife.rangerchallenge.org/campaigns/painted-dog-conservation-2026 @tusk_org @gamerangersassociationofafrica

Umkhonto Pack. Every hunt begins and ends with one of the pack's greatest challenges - crossing a busy highway. Day and night, our Tracking & Monitoring, Anti-Poaching, and Community Outreach teams work together to ensure the Umkhonto pack can move safely between their den site and hunting grounds. From slowing traffic at critical crossing points to scanning for wire snares and monitoring the pack's movements, this is a 24/7 conservation effort. Today's crossing was no different. After a successful hunt across the highway, the pack, including alpha female Isqwaga, made their journey back to the den under the watchful eyes of our dedicated teams. Patience, vigilance and unwavering commitment—doing whatever it takes, every single day, to give one of Africa's most endangered carnivores the best possible chance to survive. Every safe crossing is another step towards securing the future of the Umkhonto pack. Thank you to everyone who supports this work—your generosity makes moments like these possible. #SaveThePaintedDog #UmkhontoPack #PDC #Denning Video Credit: Jealous Mpofu

The transition from pup to yearling is a critical stage in the life of an African painted dog. As yearlings begin travelling greater distances with their pack, they become increasingly exposed to threats including snares, roads, habitat fragmentation and disease. Reducing these threats is essential to improving survival and securing the future of this Endangered species. Pictured is Nqobile, a yearling from the Acacia Pack's 2025 litter in Mana Pools. Photo credit: Linity Magondo #painteddogconservation #africanpainteddog #EndangeredSpecies #protectthepainteddog #ConservationInAction #manapools #Zimbabwe

Conservation education continues to inspire the next generation of leaders. Learners from Dopota and Main Camp Primary Schools, both schools participate in Painted Dog Conservation’s education programme, recently took part in the Wildlife and Environment Zimbabwe (WEZ) Matabeleland Regional Conservation Quiz, held at Petra College Junior in Bulawayo. The competition brought together 16 schools from across the region, with learners demonstrating their knowledge, passion and commitment to wildlife and environmental conservation. We are proud to celebrate Dopota Primary School, who emerged as winners of the regional competition and will now represent the Matabeleland Region at the WEZ National Conservation Quiz competitions in the third term of 2026. Main Camp Primary School also delivered an outstanding performance, finishing in third place. Through the Wilton Nsimango Children’s Bush Camp and our conservation education programme, we continue to create opportunities for young people to engage with conservation, build confidence and develop into future environmental stewards. A special thank you to our partners @gwangoafrica for once again supporting this important initiative through Gwango Tamarillo Estate, which provided accommodation and hospitality for the learners and accompanying team during their time in Bulawayo. This achievement demonstrates the power of collaboration in conservation education — when schools, communities and partners work together, we create opportunities for young conservation champions to thrive. Photo credit: Wilton Nsimango #painteddogconservation #conservationeducation #wildlifeandenvironmentzimbabwe #wez #youthinconservation #ConservationLeadership

Conservation is strengthened by the people behind it. Protecting painted dogs depends not only on research and field operations, but also on building the skills and knowledge needed to sustain conservation into the future. By sharing practical wildlife monitoring techniques with community volunteers, we are strengthening local conservation capacity and reinforcing a collaborative approach to protecting wildlife. Strong conservation is built on partnerships, shared knowledge and people committed to making a difference. #painteddogconservation #capacitybuilding #communityconservation #research #wildlifeconservation #ConservationLeadership

Protecting painted dogs is a commitment that requires dedication, collaboration and people willing to stand up for wildlife every day. Behind every monitored movement, every patrol and every conservation decision are teams working together to protect the Umkhonto pack and safeguard the future of one of Africa’s most endangered carnivores. Conservation happens on the ground — through teamwork, persistence and a shared responsibility to protect wildlife for generations to come. Every signal matters. Every effort counts. #painteddogs #africanwilddog #wildlifeconservation #Zimbabwe #ConservationInAction

Conservation is strengthened through collaboration. Painted Dog Conservation was pleased to join @lessons.in.conservation as they engaged young learners in an inspiring conservation education session. By creating opportunities for environmental learning, initiatives like these help foster a deeper understanding of wildlife, healthy ecosystems, and the importance of conserving them for future generations. Together, we can inspire informed, engaged communities that will shape the future of conservation. #painteddogconservation #LessonsinConservation #conservationeducation #environmentaleducation #YouthInConservation #wildlifeconservation #Zimbabwe

Rose of the Acacia Pack along the Cheruwe Riverbed in Mana Pools National Park. Painted dogs remain one of Africa’s most threatened carnivores, with survival dependent on protected landscapes and ongoing conservation work across their range. Photo: Linity Makondo #painteddogs #manapools #wildlifeconservation #Zimbabwe #africanwilddog #conservationphotography

As we approach the fire season, our Maintenance team led by Doubt Nkomo is establishing fireguards to help reduce the risk and impact of uncontrolled wildfires. Often overlooked, fireguards are among the most important tools for keeping ecosystems safe, protecting wildlife habitats, and safeguarding critical conservation areas during the dry season. Conservation is not only about protecting wildlife. It is also about protecting the landscapes they depend on. #ConservationInAction #firemanagement #WildfirePrevention #HabitatProtection #painteddogconservation #Zimbabwe

Conservation is strongest when communities, schools, and partners work together. Through conservation education and community engagement, we continue to inspire the next generation of environmental stewards. #conservationeducation #treeplanting #EnvironmentalStewardship #youthinconservation #communityconservation #painteddogconservation

Every denning season brings hope. It also brings immense responsibility. Despite months of carefully encouraging the Umkhonto pack towards safer denning areas, they have once again chosen one of the most dangerous places to raise their pups. Their den sits in an area where wire snares and vehicle collisions pose constant threats. We can’t choose where painted dogs den, but we can choose how we respond. So our teams are there. Every hour. Every day. Nine protection bases have been established around the den site, with dedicated staff working around the clock. When the pack leaves to hunt, our teams help them cross the busy road safely before guiding them back to the den. At the same time, our anti-poaching units systematically search every metre of the surrounding bush, removing wire snares from both the denning area and the pack’s hunting grounds. It is demanding work. It is exhausting. And it is absolutely necessary. These pups represent the future of one of Africa’s most endangered carnivores. Giving them the best possible chance of survival is why we exist. This is conservation. This is what we do. #painteddogs #ConservationInAction #denningseason #wildlifeprotection #savingspecies #wildlifeconservation

This World Female Ranger Week, we recognise the women whose dedication and leadership strengthen conservation efforts every day. From protecting wildlife and safeguarding habitats to supporting coexistence between people and nature, female rangers play a vital role in securing the future of our natural heritage. We thank them for their commitment to conservation and the lasting impact of their work. #worldfemalerangerweek #femalerangers #WomenInConservation #WildlifeProtection #painteddogconservation #Zimbabwe

Adventure with a Purpose! As Adam and Jill Schulman (@thebosbefoks) prepare to embark on their exciting Africa Rally (@africarally) expedition, we’d like to wish them safe travels and thank them for choosing to support Painted Dog Conservation along the way. We are truly grateful to be part of their journey. Their support will help us continue protecting painted dogs, safeguarding habitats, and working with local communities to create a future where wildlife and people can coexist. We encourage you to follow Adam and Jill’s journey, cheer them on as they travel across Africa, and join us in celebrating the spirit of adventure, conservation, and making a difference. If you’d like to support their fundraising efforts, you can donate here: https://www.givengain.com/project/adam-and-jill-raising-funds-for-painted-dog-conservation-125189 or follow the link on @thebosbekfoks bio. Adam and Jill, thank you for taking Painted Dog Conservation along for the ride. We can’t wait to follow your adventure and share in the memories you’ll create along the way. #AfricaRally #AdventureForACause #PaintedDogConservation #ConservationInAction #PaintedDogs #WildlifeConservation #FollowTheJourney #SupportConservation

Painted Dog Conservation PVO 13/2005, PO BOX 72 Dete Zimbabwe +263772162852 info@painteddog.org

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