Connected Conservation Foundation Trains African Rangers in Drone Technology for Wildlife Protection

Drone Technology for Wildlife Monitoring

Conservation professionals from 11 African countries are undergoing training in drone technology at the Lapalala Wilderness nature reserve in South Africa. The training, led by instructor Jacques Viljoen, demonstrates the use of thermal drones to locate wildlife, such as cheetahs, for monitoring and protection purposes. This practical component follows an online training program.

Addressing the Skills Gap in Conservation Technology

The Connected Conservation Foundation (CCF) identified a critical need for trained technicians to operate, repair, and maintain advanced technology in nature reserves. While technology like cameras, collars, and software has improved anti-poaching efforts, its effectiveness is limited without skilled personnel on the ground. The CCF has installed tech systems in parks across Africa since 2015, protecting nearly 10 million hectares.

The Protected Area Technicians (PAT) Training Program

To address the skills gap, CCF created its own 10-module online course for Protected Area Technicians (PAT), which launched in July 2025. In its first year, 680 individuals completed at least one module. The top 16 performers from the online course were selected to attend the practical training at Lapalala, gaining hands-on experience with technologies like heat sensor drones.

Impact on Conservation Efforts

The training program aims to ensure that conservation technology is effectively utilized to protect biodiversity. Participants like Duncan Kanyakera from Kenya observed the efficiency of drone technology in locating animals quickly, even in challenging conditions. This initiative supports the broader goal of making parks safer and more biodiverse through the integration of technology and skilled human resources.