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Unstoppable Partnership: Defender and Tusk Take Conservation Into a New Era
Land Rover Defender has announced an exciting extension to its nearly 20-year partnership with Tusk, a leading conservation charity dedicated to protecting biodiversity and endangered species across Africa. The renewed commitment brings even more robust support, including enhanced vehicle provision and funding for flagship conservation projects. This powerful alliance aims to make significant strides in addressing the growing challenges faced by wildlife and communities in Africa.
A Shared Commitment to Conservation
As an iconic and trusted name in off-road vehicles, Defender has been a strong ally to Tusk, equipping conservationists with the rugged, reliable tools they need to navigate Africa’s vast, challenging landscapes. The renewed partnership will bolster the impact of Tusk’s work, supporting six key project partners: Save the Rhino Trust in Namibia, Wild Entrust in Botswana, and Vulpro in South Africa. These partnerships have been selected based on their potential to drive impact and contribute to the protection of species, habitats, and ecosystems across the continent.
The projects supported by Defender and Tusk will engage in critical conservation activities such as surveying, tracking, rescuing, and rehabilitating endangered species. In addition to protecting wildlife, the initiatives will emphasize the importance of education and community engagement, ensuring long-term support for conservation efforts and fostering local advocacy for wildlife protection.
Defender's Role in Conservation
Defender’s long-standing commitment to sustainability and innovation aligns perfectly with the goals of these conservation projects. The brand’s vehicles are uniquely equipped to navigate rugged terrains, providing teams with the ability to reach remote areas where wildlife needs protection the most. With Defender’s robust vehicles at their disposal, conservationists can access areas that are otherwise difficult to reach, aiding in the protection of endangered species and the preservation of fragile ecosystems.
Mark Cameron, Managing Director of Defender, said, "The Defender brand, its vehicles, and culture of technological innovation are perfectly placed to help teams continue their tireless work on the ground. We are committed to supporting local experts and communities with the tools and funding needed to accelerate their efforts."
Flagship Projects and the Future of Conservation
Defender’s renewed support for Tusk focuses on flagship projects that will undertake vital conservation tasks over the next three years. These projects are designed to promote long-term biodiversity preservation and community-driven solutions. The partnership also includes significant backing for Tusk’s annual Wildlife Ranger Challenge, a fundraising initiative aimed at supporting wildlife rangers across Africa.
This event, which brings together rangers from protected areas across the continent, has raised over $21 million since its inception in 2020. Defender is proud to champion the work of rangers who are on the frontlines of protecting Africa's wildlife, providing the support and recognition these unsung heroes deserve.
Community-Centered Conservation
Tusk's CEO, Nick Bubb, highlighted the importance of the new approach, saying, “This new, joint approach to driving the conservation agenda puts communities at the heart of our mission. By combining project funding with vehicle support, we can continue to drive positive and lasting change, ensuring a brighter future for Africa’s wildlife and the people who depend on it.”
Defender and Tusk’s joint efforts will ensure that conservation initiatives are not only about protecting wildlife but also about improving the lives of local communities. As the partnership evolves, there will be more focus on community-driven solutions, empowering local people to take charge of conservation efforts.
The Lewa Marathon and Tusk Awards
Defender’s support extends beyond vehicles and funding. The brand will continue its sponsorship of the annual Lewa Marathon, one of the most breathtaking endurance races in the world, which supports the preservation of wildlife and the local communities in Kenya. Additionally, Defender will remain a proud partner of the Tusk Awards, which honor individuals and organizations that show remarkable dedication to wildlife conservation.
The 2024 Tusk Award was presented to Edward Aruna, the Founder of the Reptile and Amphibian Programme in Sierra Leone, for his outstanding work advocating for the protection of marine turtles. Aruna’s team successfully monitored hundreds of nesting sites and released thousands of hatchlings, demonstrating the power of grassroots conservation efforts.
Defender and Tusk: A Legacy of Impact
As Defender continues to support Tusk’s work, the partnership's impact on conservation will only grow. With a shared vision for protecting wildlife and empowering local communities, Defender and Tusk are helping to shape a new era of conservation. Through this collaboration, the Defender brand remains a symbol of strength, innovation, and commitment to preserving the planet’s most precious ecosystems.
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