Name: How poachers became caretakers
Uploaded: 2010-06-08T08:48:00Z
Duration: 15 min 29 s
Description: In his home of Namibia, John Kasaona is working on an innovative way to protect endangered animal species: giving nearby villagers (including former poachers) responsibility for caring for the animals. And it's working.

In his home of Namibia, John Kasaona is working on an innovative way to protect endangered animal species: giving nearby villagers (including former poachers) responsibility for caring for the animals. And it's working.

How poachers became caretakers

Giving local communities ownership over their land and wildlife sparked a dramatic turnaround in Namibia’s conservation story. Where once lions and black rhinos nearly vanished, numbers have soared as former poachers became game guards. By blending ancient Himba traditions with new tools like GPS and partnering with business and conservation groups, villagers built an economy rooted in respect for nature. The result: over 13 million hectares now thrive under community-led protection, showcasing a model for the world.