Prince William has pledged to fight for better support for those risking their lives to protect the world’s wildlife.
William was speaking at an event in Cape Town for his United for Wildlife organisation, set up by the Prince’s charitable foundation in 2014 to help protect endangered species from the illegal wildlife trade.
He passionately describes the daily risks that wildlife rangers face: “Rangers are fundamental if we are to meet our 2030 global conservation goals and avoid the dangerous tipping points that threaten our planet.
“These people do much more than just protect wildlife. They are educators. They support the community. And they help regulate the sustainable use of natural resources.
“Yet far too often they lack sufficient support, with rangers in particular facing insufficient pay and protection.”
He added: “We cannot protect our planet without a well-supported workforce.”
William spoke to conservationists on Signal Hill about the environment. Image: Reuters
It came as he announced a new life insurance policy, set up by United for Wildlife, the Game Rangers Association of Africa and the Tusk Trust, specifically for rangers across Africa to give them and their families the reassurance that they are protected from the dangerous work that they do. .
Often, family members of those who die are left with nothing. It is part of a five-year plan that will provide 10,000 rangers with access to insurance coverage, as well as training and leadership development opportunities.
Since he On Monday he flew to Cape Townhe is seen at engagements wearing a beaded bracelet with the word ‘daddy’ spelled out on it – the name his children call him.
His daughter, Princess Charlotte, is known to love crafting and is a fan of singer Taylor Swift, who encourages fans to swap homemade bead bracelets.
Before the trip she made the bracelet for the prince.
The prince wore a beaded bracelet with the text ‘dad’ during his visit to South Africa. Image: Reuters
In his speeches, William often talks about the importance of protecting the planet for future generations, and how that sense of purpose has become even stronger since becoming a father.
On the second day of the week-long trip, the prince joined the thousands of tourists who trek to Signal Hill every year to see spectacular views of Cape Town and Table Mountain.
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Described as one of the new Seven Natural Wonders of the World, he joined rangers and conservationists at Table Mountain National Park to talk about the work they are doing to balance protecting its rich biodiversity and wildlife with the importance of tourism.
“What a beautiful place to meet you. Look, it’s amazing,” said William, as he continued to ask about the specific effects of climate change.
Flash floods, mudslides and unprecedented levels of forest fires have hit the park hard in the past year.
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William also stopped by another group directly involved in stopping poachers, both on the mountain slopes and in the marine areas.
He could be heard talking about how rangers are not given enough support to risk their lives, often leaving victims’ families feeling abandoned.
During an important diplomatic stop before the tour, he then went to meet him South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa, where they also discussed the forest ranger community.
William also discussed the ranger community with President Cyril Ramaphosa. Image: Reuters
William was also accompanied by British Foreign Secretary David Lammy, who is in town for other bilateral talks between Britain and South Africa.
It was a reminder of the increased statesmanlike responsibilities that William now faces as heir to the throne.