Rangers vs Poachers: The Fight to Save Africa's Elephants | Guardians | BBC Earth

I've been fortunate enough to travel to Africa many times over the years and the continent has always held a special place in my heart. Deep in the Central African Republic lies Zanga Sanga, one of our planet's last great untouched wildernesses. Here, elephants and gorillas still roam through ancient forests alongside communities who have lived in harmony with nature for generations. But these iconic species remain a target for poachers and protecting them is a daily battle. Madiki is an award-winning ranger who leads a team risking their lives to protect this vital ecosystem. What makes his story even more incredible is that he used to be a poacher himself. Zanga Sanga is teeming with life, with a diverse ecosystem that includes tropical forests and wetlands. Local communities rely on these protected areas for their livelihoods and many traditional practices. The iconic species that live here are critically endangered. This is an Eden under siege. There is nearly two tons of ivory in this room, seized from armed gangs operating in the area. Despite a ban on international trade, the demand for ivory continues to fuel poaching. It's not just guns that threaten the wildlife. Many species get caught in these snares, including the western lowland gorilla, whose numbers have more than halved in the past two decades. The Yuko guards here are specially trained professionals guided by a clear code of conduct. As well as community-based conservation initiatives, they stand against heavily armed poaching gangs. This is a protected area, a social area that is completely protected from poachers, and also from robberies. In 2024 alone, team leader Madiki and his patrol unit walked nearly 2,000 kilometers, removing 4,000 snares, seizing 23 weapons, and making 11 arrests. And last year, he was awarded the prestigious African Field Ranger of the Year. What makes Madiki's journey even more extraordinary is that he wasn't always a protector. But after years of illegally poaching in the area, something happened that changed everything. Their next mission takes them to the heart of the danger, Zanga Bai. Thousands of elephants gather there, making it a prime target for poachers. As there is a chance armed poachers will be in the area, it's crucial Madiki keeps his team motivated and engaged. A clearing rich in minerals, this vital source of nutrients acts like a magnet, drawing in wildlife from every corner of the Congo Basin. Back in 2013, armed rebels stormed Zanga Bai, slaughtering nearly 30 elephants. Amidst the carnage, Madiki risked his life, hiding to gather crucial evidence of the massacre. The importance of Zanga Sanga and the work of the rangers operating here to protect it is recognised globally. But the threat is far from over. As well as protecting wildlife from poachers, Madiki's team supports community-based projects like guerrilla habituation, working with local trackers. This and other similar projects help generate income for local communities while also safeguarding wildlife from poachers. The environment is very important to us. We have to protect the environment and protect the environment from poachers. This precious ecosystem, crucial for climate stability, depends on wildlife protection. Individuals like Madiki, through their bravery and dedication, give us hope for this future.