Paul Edkins has already begun his great trek to South Africa from the United Kingdom on a bicycle. You’d be forgiven for thinking ‘that’s wild’ and you’d also be right—Paul’s journey is for wildlife and its all-female anti-poaching protectors!
Global (04 July, 2023) — Last week was World Female Ranger Week, but for the United Kingdom’s Paul Edkins, celebrating the incredible women like the Black Mambas who protect wild animals wasn’t enough. Paul has set out on a mission to raise funds for them to keep doing the brave work they do, and he’s trekking all the way to South Africa on a bicycle to turn the wheels of change.
While he might not be cycling the entire distance to SA (cycling on water isn’t part of the itinerary this time), the feat is still a big one. At the heart of it are the Black Mambas—the all-female anti-poaching unit who are giving the Women King’s warriors a run for their money in bravery.
These brave heroines have been awarded for their resilience in the past; operating within the Balule Nature Reserve part of the Greater Kruger National Park. They’re also the world’s first all-female anti-poaching unit.
These women are heroes not just for the wildlife they protect, but to the communities who look up to them—many of whom hail from underprivileged communities.
Their goal is simple: conserve, educate others and protect the wildlife in South Africa—something the team has been doing proudly since 2013.
Edkins has already set the cycle for his journey, and is en route to France per his most recent update.
“His journey will go through Northern and Eastern Africa, and the destination point is Olifants West Nature Reserve, where Transfrontier Africa, The Black Mambas and The Bush Babies are going to welcome him in 2024”, shared The Black Mambas who have long been dreaming of an adventurous Good Samaritan.
You can keep up with his trek via his social media pages.
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