Machiel Lambert — Head of Anti-Poaching & Security, Karingani Game Reserve, Mozambique
At Karangani Game Reserve, the ongoing struggle against wildlife crime requires more than determination alone. Effective anti-poaching operations depend on disciplined personnel, strong fieldcraft, practical tracking ability, and a training system that reflects the realities faced on the ground every day. In 2026, we partnered with Denda Advisory Group to assist us with the selection and training of new ranger recruits through a three-month Basic Field Rangers Course — a collaboration that has proven to be highly successful and extremely valuable to our anti-poaching operations.
Working closely with Daniel Landrey, a training template was developed specifically around the operational requirements of Karangani's anti-poaching units. One of the most positive aspects of this collaboration was the willingness to listen carefully to our operational realities and adapt the training accordingly. Rather than applying a generic approach, the course was tailored to suit the terrain, challenges, and day-to-day demands our teams face in the field.
The emphasis throughout the course was placed on the fundamentals that matter most in effective field operations: tracking, bushcraft, discipline, teamwork, and strong basic ranger skills. These are the foundations upon which capable anti-poaching teams are built, and we found that this focused approach produced excellent results. The trainees responded positively to the structure and standards of the course, and the progression in confidence, capability, and professionalism throughout the three months was evident.
Importantly, the course was not solely about instruction — it was also about identifying and selecting individuals best suited to the role of field ranger. The process of building candidates up while simultaneously assessing their character, resilience, discipline, and aptitude ensured that the final selection was based on merit and operational suitability. This approach has allowed us to strengthen the quality of personnel entering our anti-poaching teams and establish a stronger standard moving forward.
Another significant benefit of the programme was the development of our own instructors. Through working alongside Denda Advisory Group and observing the structure and methodology of the training, our instructors have gained valuable insight into how we can improve and standardise refresher training for our existing scouts and field teams. This will allow us to maintain consistency, improve operational readiness, and continue building a more proactive and efficient anti-poaching unit over time.
The partnership between Karangani Game Reserve and Denda Advisory Group has been extremely positive from both a training and operational perspective. We are very satisfied with the provision of training, the professionalism demonstrated throughout the programme, and the overall quality of the scout selection process. Most importantly, the course has contributed directly toward strengthening our conservation protection efforts and building a more capable anti-poaching force for the future.
As conservation challenges continue to evolve across Africa, partnerships built around practical experience, adaptability, and operational understanding remain essential. The success of this programme has demonstrated the value of tailored, field-focused ranger training and the importance of investing in the people who stand on the front line of wildlife protection every day. We look forward to continuing our work with Denda Advisory Group in future.
