Ex-Poacher Turned Conservation Advocate in Zimbabwe

In a bid to combat poaching and promote sustainable living, community leader Mastick has been urging villagers to shift their focus towards agriculture and livestock for food and income. He emphasizes the importance of animals for the community's benefit, stating that poaching is a selfish act that undermines collective resources. The local livestock fencing remains basic, often constructed from tree branches or thorny bushes, which poses challenges in protecting livestock from wild animals. The Save Valley Conservancy, which spans 750,000 acres, has reported a significant loss of over 30 percent of its wildlife habitat, exacerbated by climate change. Dingani Masuku, the community liaison manager, highlights the competition for resources between humans and wildlife in one of Zimbabwe's driest regions. Mastick, who has seen his goat herd dwindle from 45 to 10 due to predation, advocates for coexistence rather than violence against wildlife, stressing that killing animals is not a viable solution. Mastick's personal experience with incarceration has also shaped his message, as he reflects on the hardships faced by his family during his absence, including the impact on his 20 children's education. He has turned to crafting furniture from local materials, which has gained popularity among tourists and locals alike. While there is no concrete data on poaching trends, Mastick reports a decline in poaching activities in his village, suggesting that his advocacy is resonating with the community. Masuku notes that Mastick's firsthand experience lends credibility to his message of reform.