Crisis Zimbabwe Update – April 24, 2009

The Lowveld Rhino Trust is extremely lucky to have a long-time, dedicated group of donors and stakeholders who have helped to support rhino management and protection in Zimbabwe for many years, and are committed to making sure that Zimbabwe’s rhino survive this current crisis.
Beit Trust
The Beit Trust, a 104-year-old foundation that makes grants in Malawi, Zambia and Zimbabwe, has provided significant funding to help establish and support black rhino conservancies in Zimbabwe’s lowveld.
Disney Wildlife Conservation Fund
The Disney Wildlife Conservation Fund has provided annual support to the Lowveld Rhino Trust for rhino management and monitoring activities.
Gilman International Conservation Foundation
Gilman International Conservation promotes conservation of flagship species and their natural habitats. Gilman provides yearly support for the Lowveld Rhino Trust’s rhino management and monitoring activities.
International Rhino Foundation
IRF provides significant technical support to the Lowveld Rhino Trust and fundraises for the program. Numerous individuals and zoos have contributed funds to help protect Zimbabwe’s rhinos through IRF, including the Fort Worth Zoo, the Toronto Zoo, and the Ledder Family Charitable Trust.
Paul Tudor Jones
Paul Tudor Jones is a philanthropist who supports the rhino operations with an annual allocation of helicopter time, in return for which the Lowveld Rhino Trust provides technical advice and logistical support for rhino management on Malilangwe Estate, Zimbabwe, in which he has invested.
SAVE Foundation
The SAVE Foundation of Australia is committing to protecting Africa’s wildlife, with a special focus on conserving black rhinos in Zimbabwe. The Foundation provides the Lowveld Rhino Trust with funding for equipment like radios, GPS units, and field kits, and for salaries for monitoring units.
Save the Rhino International
Save the Rhino International supports and raises funding from individuals, zoos, trusts and foundations and from its own core funds, for the Lowveld Rhino Trust’s annual and emergency operations. Wilhelma, the Zoological and Botanical Zoo in Stuttgart, Germany, The Marjorie Coote Animal Welfare Trust and the EAZA Rhino Campaign have all contributed funds to Zimbabwe through SRI.
Sea World Busch Gardens Conservation Fund
The Sea World Busch Gardens Conservation Fund supports the annual operations of the Lowveld Rhino Trust, including veterinary treatment, translocations and monitoring.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Rhino and Tiger Conservation Fund
USFWS has provided financial support for rhino translocations and veterinary care since 2004, and has increased funding this year in response to the crisis. Officials recognize the significance of these events and are making every effort to mobilize financial resources for veterinary interventions and anti-poaching efforts.
World Wildlife Fund Southern Africa Regional Programme Office
WWF SARPO provides significant support to the Lowveld Rhino Trust for office and running costs, vehicles, equipment, and other costs necessary to implement annual rhino operations.