$30,000 Raised to Fight Poaching in Victoria Falls

The war on poaching in the Victoria Falls region has been given a US$30,000 boost by an annual fundraising golf tournament, coordinated, hosted and sponsored by Zimbabwean hospitality group Africa Albida Tourism.  

A field of 160 players, making up 40 teams, teed off for charity on September 21 at Harare’s Borrowdale Brooke Golf Club at the 18th annual Victoria Falls Anti-Poaching Unit (VFAPU) Golf Day, playing a 4 Ball Better Ball Stableford format, before a prize-giving function and auction. 

The tournament was won by Ashleigh Pringle and Michelle Wilson, who finished on 52 points, while Angus Light and Richard Howes came second on 50 points, followed by Frank Zimani and Mike McMullen on 49 points.

AAT chief executive Ross Kennedy thanked all supporters, adding: “As AAT we are so proud to be a leading donor and fundraiser for VFAPU! The Golf Day showed what an amazing society and nation we live in, with so many generous and caring companies and individuals who support VFAPU year in and out.”

VFAPU head of operations Charles Brightman said the funds raised would go a long way towards covering the unit’s operational costs.  

VFAPU’s 17 scouts, who tackle all forms of poaching in the Victoria Falls region, have arrested 734 hardened poachers, removed more than 22 300 wire snares and rescued 224 mammals injured by snares since the unit was established in 1999 by Mr Brightman, a professional guide and conservationist, and Victoria Falls Safari Lodge, AAT’s flagship property.

For more information visit www.vfapu.com or to donate contact Mr Brightman on [email protected] 

IMAGE CAPTION: VFAPU Golf Day winners Michelle Wilson and Ashleigh Pringle with Africa Albida Tourism staff Tyla Crabbe, Nommy Vuma and Keara O’Toole.

Photo Credit: Eugene Matarise, Tee Time Golf Magazine