Focused Conservation

Pangolins, among the most trafficked mammals in the world, continue to face relentless exploitation. In a recent investigation by the Uganda Wildlife Crime Unit (UWCU), supported by Focused Conservation, four Chinese traffickers were arrested in Kampala for their role in the illegal possession of protected wildlife. The operation, dubbed Operation Marler, resulted in the seizure of 9.4 kgs of pangolin scales and fully skinned pangolin carcasses—evidence that at least 42 critically endangered tree-climbing pangolins were trafficked by this group. Our team remains steadfast in the fight against pangolin trafficking, working alongside dedicated partners like the Uganda Wildlife Authority to dismantle the networks responsible for decimating these fragile populations across Africa. Together, we can make a difference. Join us in the fight to protect pangolins and combat wildlife crime. Read more about Operation Marler and our ongoing efforts on our website: https://lnkd.in/gW2bZXH #WildlifeConservation #EndWildlifeTrafficking #ProtectPangolins #Poaching #UgandaWildlife #FocusedConservation

Anton Mzimba, a courageous head ranger and fearless defender of South Africa’s rhinos, was brutally assassinated on July 26, 2022, outside his home. For over two decades, Anton stood on the frontlines against poaching syndicates—paying the ultimate price for his unwavering commitment to protecting Africa’s iconic wildlife. Now, more than two years later, no arrests have been made. It’s time for action. Our team at Focused Conservation has joined in the campaign to seek justice. The Justice for Anton Mzimba campaign, led by John Jurko II and the creators of the award-winning documentary RHINO MAN, seeks to honor Anton’s legacy and bring his killers to justice. In the pursuit of justice for Anton Mzimba, our team at Focused Conservation has united with the South African Police Service (SAPS) Hawks to strengthen the investigation and build a case against his killers. The Hawks, formally known as the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), are a specialized unit tackling organized crime and corruption, bringing unmatched expertise to this mission. We are a U.S.-based nonprofit dedicated to dismantling Illicit Wildlife Trafficking (IWT), and will be providing critical support, leveraging our experience in assisting law enforcement in this investigation. With the support and blessings of Anton's family and the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, this campaign reflects a shared determination to ensure Justice for Anton. Together, we stand committed to bringing those responsible to account. Learn more, get involved, and please donate at www.JusticeForAnton.org. #JusticeForAnton #ProtectOurRangers #StopWildlifeCrime #RhinoMan #WildlifeConservation #focusedconservation #WildlifeHeroes #rhinoceros

In a groundbreaking collaboration, the Uganda Wildlife Crime Unit (UWCU) led Operation Roebuck, seizing 35 kilograms of elephant ivory and arresting two suspects, as well as providing vital evidence that also led to the arrest of a third suspect. The arrests that were made included members of the Uganda Peoples Defence Forces (UPDF). This investigation, supported by Focused Conservation, exposed a deeply troubling case of poaching and corruption. Intelligence revealed a trafficking network attempting to sell ivory from an elephant poached in the Agago District within Kidepo National Park in July 2024. Under orders from a UPDF commander, soldiers removed the tusks from the carcass and delivered them to him. Despite the traffickers’ counter-surveillance and ambush tactics, UWCU investigators conducted delicate negotiations, safely apprehending the suspects. The UPDF commander was later arrested, prosecuted and sentenced to almost 2 years in prison by a military court, setting a powerful example of accountability. This mission underscores the importance of having experienced law enforcement professionals on the front lines of wildlife protection. Focused Conservation’s team of former international investigators has played a pivotal role in mentoring and equipping UWCU officers to navigate this dangerous and complex case. Their expertise ensured not only the successful disruption of this trafficking network but also the safety of the officers involved. Operation Roebuck underscores the critical need for accountability at every level in the fight against wildlife trafficking. Protecting vulnerable species is no easy task—it's a dangerous battle fought on the frontlines every day. While victories like this inspire hope, the mission to end wildlife trafficking is far from over. Together, we can end wildlife trafficking. Learn more and support our mission at https://lnkd.in/gW2bZXH. #UgandaWildifeAuthority #EndWildlifeTrafficking #ProtectWildlife #FocusedConservation #StopIvoryTrade #ProtectElephants #Conservation #ConservationHeroes #UWA

Wildlife trafficking is more than just a crime—it’s a silent crisis for our planet. This illegal trade is pushing species toward extinction, destabilizing ecosystems, and eroding biodiversity. By targeting the rarest and strongest individuals within a species, poachers often weaken entire populations, leaving future generations vulnerable with declining genetic diversity. The effects are profound with ecosystems thrown out of balance and species facing extinction at alarming rates. At Focused Conservation, we feel a sense of urgency to confront this crisis every day. Through our mentorship of Wildlife Crime Units, we empower frontline defenders to dismantle trafficking networks and hold criminals accountable. Together, we’re making a difference—but we can’t win this fight alone. Join the fight to protect Earth’s most vulnerable species. Visit https://lnkd.in/gW2bZXH to learn how you can support our efforts to help safeguard wildlife and preserve biodiversity for generations to come. #EndWildlifeTrafficking #ProtectBiodiversity #FocusedConservation #ConservationHeroes #Conservation #IllegalWildlifeTrade #SaveEndangeredSpecies #StopPoaching #WildlifeCrime

At Focused Conservation, we stop wildlife trafficking in its tracks by bringing traffickers to justice through strong legal action and local prevention efforts. With the expertise of our law enforcement team, we employ strategies like Training and Capacity Building, Developing and Mentoring Wildlife Crime Units, Analyzing and Sharing Intelligence, and Leading Investigations to dismantle trafficking networks and protect vulnerable species. Since 2019, our impact has been profound: we've joined 855 law enforcement operations, resulting in 640 arrests and the rescue of nearly 500 live animals, including countless species saved from the illegal wildlife trade. This fight needs every ounce of support we can muster. Join us in our mission to protect wildlife and help put an end to trafficking. Visit our website to learn more and support our work! https://lnkd.in/gW2bZXH #FocusedConservation #ConservationHeroes #Conservation #EndWildlifeTrafficking #IllegalWildlifeTrade #SaveEndangeredSpecies #StopPoaching #WildlifeCrime #ProtectPrimates

The trafficking of sandalwood—a highly prized tree used in perfumes, cosmetics, and traditional medicines—continues to endanger this species despite strong protections in Kenya. Thanks to the Kenya Wildlife Task Force (KWTF) and support from Focused Conservation, over 49,880 kg of sandalwood has been seized since 2021. Recently, under Operation Impala, a new conviction marks a crucial step in Kenya’s fight against illegal wildlife trade, with justice served after a thorough investigation. Illegal wildlife trade is ravaging species worldwide, with poachers, traffickers, and organized crime syndicates driven by relentless consumer demand. At Focused Conservation, we’re on the front lines, not only defending vulnerable animal species but also combatting the destruction of trees—now the most widely trafficked wildlife commodity globally. Illegal timber trade is devastating ecosystems, and our team remains committed to protecting both plants and animals for future generations. #StopWildlifeTrafficking #ProtectSandalwood #FocusedConservation #Conservation #ConservationHeroes #Kenya

In the past decade, over a million pangolins have been trafficked and killed for the illegal wildlife trade. Their scales, despite being made of keratin, are highly prized in Traditional Chinese Medicine—fueling demand that threatens their very existence. At Focused Conservation we’re committed to turning the tide. Recently, through the Uganda Wildlife Crime Unit (UWCU), two endangered tree pangolins were seized in Operation Steward. They’re safe now, back in the wild in Kibale National Park. When will we end this cycle and protect these irreplaceable creatures? Check out the work we are doing at Focused Conservation to help protect vulnerable species like the pangolin at https://lnkd.in/eF3jFNQW #FocusedConservation #UgandaWildlife #Pangolin #EndWildlifeTrafficking #SavePangolins #IllegalWildlifeTrade #Conservation #ConservationHeroes #UgandaWildlifeAuthority

In our latest Stories from the Bush, we’re proud to spotlight a historic moment in Uganda's conservation journey: Margaret Kasumba’s appointment as the first woman to lead the Uganda Wildlife Crime Unit (UWCU). Through the support and collaboration of Focused Conservation and the Uganda Wildlife Authority, Kasumba and her team have become a formidable force against wildlife crime. Since its inception in 2018, the UWCU has carried out 731 operations, leading to 379 arrests and the seizure of illegally trafficked species, from elephant ivory and pangolins to rhino horn and primates. Read more about Margaret and the UWCU on our website! #EndWildlifeCrime #FocusedConservation #ProtectUgandasWildlife #UgandaWildlifeAuthority #UgandaWildlife #WildlifeConservation #SaveThePangolin #SaveTheElephants #WildlifeHeroes

On International Gibbon Day, we celebrate these incredible, acrobatic tree dwellers who are not only vital to the health of forest ecosystems but are also among the most endangered primates on the planet. With their habitats rapidly disappearing and the threat of being captured for the illegal pet trade, gibbons face a serious risk of extinction. At, Focused Conservation we are committed to protecting all primates, including gibbons, whose survival is essential for biodiversity. Many species are listed as endangered or critically endangered, making it more urgent than ever to take action. Let’s work together to raise awareness and safeguard these creatures before it’s too late. #FocusedConservation #InternationalGibbonDay #Gibbon #WildlifeConservation #GibbonConservation #EndangeredSpecies #SaveTheGibbons

At Focused Conservation, we know that the fight against illicit wildlife trade demands more than just passion—it requires expertise, dedication, and collaboration. That's why we provide specialized training, knowledge, and resources to empower law enforcement and improve their capacity to protect wildlife. On October 15, 2024, our efforts paid off once again. Operation Silent Scorcher—a joint operation between law enforcement agencies and NGOs including Care for Wild and Focused Conservation—led to the arrest of notorious wildlife trafficking suspect Joseph "Big Joe" Nyalunga. Nyalunga, already out on bond for other serious crimes, was found with explosives and ammunition at his business premises. We will continue to apply our expertise to help protect wildlife and bring traffickers to justice. Stay with us as we push forward in this critical mission. #FocusedConservation #WildlifeProtection #ConservationHeroes #EndWildlifeTrafficking #SaveTheRhinos #StopPoaching #WildlifeTrafficking