The Elephant Charge: A Test of Grit to Support Wildlife in Zambia
This month we’re excited to shine a spotlight on Elephant Charge, a remarkable effort to raise funds to support wildlife conservation in Zambia.
The Elephant Charge is an annual family-friendly event that temporarily transforms an area of the Zambian wilderness into an adventure-laden 4x4 challenge. The Charge invites teams of cars and motorbikes to take on this course – which is kept secret until the day of the Charge.
Spectators are invited to take in the excitement as each participating team navigates through 10 checkpoints as quickly as possible within an eight-hour timeframe. It’s a thrilling test of driving, navigation and endurance, according to the event’s website.
When a team enters the race, they agree to raise funds for the cause and pledge to donate every single dollar raised to conservation charities. Costs to put on the event are covered with small entry fees paid by each team. The biggest prize for the Charge is awarded to the team that raises the most money in sponsorships.
Elephant Charge and its participating teams have raised more than $1.4 million since it began in 2008, which has been shared with 25 conservation organizations in Zambia. Some of Africa Hope Fund’s most endeared partner organizations have benefitted, including:
- Conservation South Luangwa
- Zambian Carnivore Programme
- Conservation Lower Zambezi
- Chipembele Wildlife Education Trust
Within the organizations, a large amount of the funds raised are allotted to education for children so they can learn about the lifelong importance of conservation and wildlife in their regions. This includes school visits, conservation clubs, field trips to national parks, and community events.
This year’s Elephant Charge will be held in September, and everyone involved is eager to see what the year will bring! For more information on the event, participating or donating, visit Elephant Charge.