Annual Report 2014 by ALERT

Annual Report 2014

OUR VISION To ensure viable populations of African lions are maintained as an integral part of functional ecosystems.

OUR MISSION The African Lion and Environmental Research Trust is dedicated to a multidisciplinary approach for the facilitation and promotion of sound conservation and management plans for the African lion (Panthera leo) and the ecosystems on which the species relies. Through responsible development we aim to realize the speciesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; potential to provide substantial social, cultural, ecological and economic benefits, which are distributed equitably amongst stakeholders to promote sustainable motivation in them for the protection of Africaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s natural heritage.

A responsible development approach to conservation

In most cases the challenges facing Africa’s wildlife and its people are too great and too complex, and they require too many resources, for any one organization to address. By uniting… •

Community

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Policy makers

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Conservation managers and agencies

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Researchers

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Business leaders

We can generate solutions that are… •

Locally conceived

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Locally relevant

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Systems based

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Long term

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Cost efficient

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Sustainable

Together, we can propose the best decisions for Africa’s people, its environment and its wildlife whilst creating and distributing benefits for stakeholder groups that generate sustainable motivation for sound conservation management. This union ensures both present and future generations are able to enjoy the benefits of Africa’s environmental services by integrating the protection of natural processes with economic and social development. By acting collectively the stakeholders of Africa can combine expertise, knowledge and funding to generate real, long-lasting, cost efficient and responsible solutions that are reflected in policy of national governments all the way through the structure of society to the actions of the individual.

Holistic management

Our environment is shaped not just by geography and bio-physical factors, but also by socioeconomic, cultural, legal and political ones. ALERT acts holistically by recognizing that our actions must address all these factors if our programmes are to succeed.

IN SITU LION CONSERVATION “There is probably no other species whose distribution range has shrunk over historical times to the extent shown by the lion.”

RHN Smithers

The conservation of wild lions in their natural range must remain the mainstay of efforts to ensure viable populations of lions are maintained as an integral part of functional ecosystems. To that end, ALERT engages and supports programmes to: protect and restore habitat for lions, assess and monitor population size and health, mitigate the conflict between lions and communities, understand better lion ecology and behaviour, and assist wildlife authorities with appropriate policies to conserve lions. ALERT favours African solutions to these African challenges, believing that such solutions are more likely to work, gain acceptance and support amongst the relevant stakeholders, and speak to the aspirations of those stakeholders.

ALERT PROGRAMMES 

Matusadona Lion Project, Zimbabwe (ongoing)

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Zambezi Lion Project (part of the Zambezi NP Large Predator Assessment, Zimbabwe (ongoing)

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Mitigating Human / Lion Conflict, Zimbabwe (ongoing)

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Restoration of Ruvubu National Park, Burundi (ongoing)

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Restoration of Rusizi National Park, Burundi (ongoing)

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National Lion Action Plan, Malawi (ongoing)

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Wildlife Protection, Guinea, Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe (ongoing)

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Awash National Park Lion Project, Ethiopia (fundraising)

ALERT SUPPORTED PROGRAMMES 

Large Carnivore Research, Northern Namibia (ongoing)

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Predation risk; a possible factor in equitable nutrient recycling, Zambia (ongoing)

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Bumi Hills Anti-Poaching Unit, Zimbabwe (ongoing)

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Victoria Falls Anti-Poaching Unit, Zimbabwe (ongoing)

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Carnivore Conservation, Kusungu National Park, Malawi (completed)

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Assessing Lion Disease Status in Gonarezhou National Park, Zimbabwe (completed)

FOCUS ON: MATUSADONA LION PROJECT Matusadona National Park in Zimbabwe was once home to Africa’s second highest density of lions; providing an important stronghold for the species in Southern Africa. In the 1990’s a population estimate was made of c. 100 lions within the 450km2 valley floor area of the Park - a population density second only to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area in Tanzania. By 2005, the population had fallen to an estimated 28 animals following dramatic losses in prey availability. There has been no data available regarding the population’s current status or investigations addressing any further threats to its viability. Launched in March 2014, the Matusadona Lion Project was established by ALERT in partnership with the Zimbabwe Parks & Wildlife Management Authority to provide baseline data on the current lion population within the Matusadona National Park valley floor area. Data gathered will provide an insight into the ecology and biology of the population, current population status and distribution, possible threats and pressures on the population, prey availability, and the status and distribution of other large predators known to inhabit the area. Results will help contribute to the implementation of the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority’s Conservation Strategy and Action Plan for the Lion in Zimbabwe.

Through the formation of a comprehensive ‘Lion ID Database’ and a series of seasonal call-up station surveys, one of the studies’ priorities is to determine a true population figure for the valley floor area and accurately monitor births, deaths and migrations within the area to help assess the population’s current viability. To date, four lions have been fitted with two VHF radio collars and two satellite GPS collars to allow for daily monitoring of prides and to investigate spatial and temporal movements amongst differing habitat types of the valley floor area. Through daily monitoring the project has identified 33 lions for the Lion ID Database consisting of three prides and one male coalition. The study has also provided information on possible threats to the population that will be investigated further as the project continues and expands this coming year. In addition, we are assisting the Matusadona National Parks’ Ecologist with issues regarding human-lion conflict in the surrounding communal lands.

FOCUS ON: ZAMBEZI LION PROJECT This project was initiated in May 2013, in partnership with the Zimbabwe Parks & Wildlife Management Authority, as part of a broader survey of large predators across the 56,200 ha. Zambezi National Park. We aim to assess habitat occupancy to assist development of lion specific management plans for the Park. The study employs a spatially replicated survey to address imperfect detections of the evidence of lion. Ecological predictions of lion presence are confronted with sign detection data, generated from occupancy sampling sites. To date we have surveyed approximately 53% of the area. Most of the remaining areas that we have hoped to survey have proved inaccessible due to bad road networks. The rainy season also limited our movements during the first quarter of the year. During the year 2014, 67 replicates were conducted. The diagram shows where evidence of lions was found.

FOCUS ON: MITIGATING HUMAN / LION CONFLICT In September 2014, ALERT was approached by community settlers within the Matetsi Conservancy, near Victoria Falls, to assist in a problem that they were having with lions killing livestock in kraals. The Matetsi Conservancy is located adjacent to protected areas such as the Fuller Forest and the Matetsi Safari areas, which have a significant number of predators that have been known to wander into the Conservancy. ALERT, in partnership with the Zimbabwe Parks & Wildlife Management Authority, agreed to help, and, with the limited finances available, were able to equip two kraals with flashing LED lights. Results are, so far, encouraging but inconclusive; lion spoor has been seen 100 meters away from one of the treated kraals, and then heading to another untreated kraal where a goat was killed. The kraals themselves need revision, and ALERT will look at upgrading them to make them more lion proof. At the same time we have secured more funding to install LED lights on more kraals in the area. Other measures of protection are being considered as well.

FOCUS ON: WILDLIFE PROTECTION To date our efforts in this area have been to undertake anti-poaching activities alongside the wildlife authorities in the Parks in which we work, as well as providing funding to both the Victoria Falls and Bumi Hills Anti-Poaching Units in Zimbabwe. During 2014, USD 13,228 (2013: USD 11,852) was provided to help fund these anti-poaching programmes. In 2014 ALERT entered into agreements with Chengeta Wildlife, Rory Young of Bannon-Tighe Global Assessment Group and Coventry University to extend our work in the area of wildlife protection. Through this partnership we are offering training to Africa’s anti-poaching units (APUs) in the most comprehensive, intelligent and pragmatic doctrine ever devised to bring the practice of poaching under control. “A Field Manual for Anti-Poaching Activities”, published by ALERT and Chengeta Wildlife in both English and French, has been developed by Rory Young, a professional tracker with 25 years’ experience, and a number of security professionals with experience in investigations, special operations, law enforcement, and SWAT training doctrines. The combined experience of these contributors has created anti-poaching techniques capable of tackling poaching at the market, in transit and on the ground Training of APUs has been provided free of charge, is conducted within the framework of local and international laws, and adapted to local conditions and sensitivities. The training of local individuals, who are then able to provide future training, is always the primary goal. During 2014, anti-poaching units have been trained in Guinea, Malawi and Zimbabwe. This year we have trained over 120 men, from Director Generals to national trainers to anti-poaching team leaders and of course, to rangers in the front line. Altogether, including the men trained by those trainers, close to 700 anti-poaching rangers have been trained. In July, the first training course was undertaken in the Gache-Gache area of Zimbabwe; which included rangers from three different anti-poaching organisations, plus members of the Zimbabwean Republican Police and local council.

In August / September, we undertook a training programme for senior anti-poaching staff in each of Malawi’s national parks. The Minister of Information, Tourism and Culture, Kondwani Nankhumwa, presided over the passing out parade. In November / December, we moved to Guinea where we are assisting with a 2-year pilot initiative to implement a wildlife protection programme in the country - funded by the European Union and implemented by the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) in partnership with the Republic of Guinea’s Ministry of the Environment, Water and Forests. The aim is to support the Ministry in the creation and application of a new corps of rangers in three of Guinea’s protected areas: Upper Niger National Park, Ziama Massif Biosphere Reserve, and Mount Nimba Strict Nature Reserve. The project was also conceived with the aim of reintegrating ex-combatants, and in providing support to the regular army in the context of regional insecurity. UNOPS are currently in the process of rehabilitating the operational bases of these three sites, and selecting and equipping 38 officers and 290 rangers. If successful, activities may be extended to a total of 4000 rangers across Guinea’s protected area network. This will be the first time anti-poaching operations have been undertaken in the country since 1966. Further requests for assistance and training are being received from across the Continent.

BITE SIZED: Restoration of Ruvubu & Rusizi National Parks in Burundi In July 2012 ALERT signed an agreement with the Government of the Republic of Burundi to jointly manage these parks using ALERT's responsible development principles. The agreement aims to make specific contribution to the enrichment and conservation of national biodiversity and heritage assets by restoring the habitats, reintroducing existing and extinct indigenous species, and contribute to GDP through the development of ecotourism. Under Burundian law the next stage is to prepare a Convention of Implementation. Throughout 2013 and 2014 meetings have been held in Burundi, Zambia and Zimbabwe towards completion of this document. A final draft has been submitted to the Government for approval. National Lion Action Plan, Malawi Following a preliminary meeting with the Department of National Parks & Wildlife in 2012, ALERT has assisted in the creation of a national lion action plan for Malawi. The plan has been developed using common frameworks and drawing from the experience of lion range states that have already developed such plans. A final draft of the Plan has been submitted to DNPW for review, who have requested one final stakeholder meeting to finalize the Plan. We are currently seeking funds to finance that meeting. Awash National Park Lion Project, Ethiopia Following discussions held during 2012, ALERT was asked in 2013 to assist the Ethiopian Wildlife Conservation Authority to implement their National Lion Action Plan. It was agreed that implementation would commence in the Awash Lion Conservation Unit. ALERT is currently seeking funding for this project. Large Carnivore Research, Northern Namibia ALERT has previously provided collars to assist this ongoing research programme that aims to provide density estimates and distributions of this lion population, with demographical records providing the groundwork for the continued and on-going monitoring of such populations. Knowledge of relative importance of the effects of interspecific competition, anthropogenic processes in the form of humaninduced mortalities, and long-term repeated exposure to wildlife diseases is needed to guide management policies that can ensure the continued survival and viability of lion populations in northern Namibia. Predation risk; a possible factor in equitable nutrient recycling, Zambia In 2014 ALERT provided finance for this ongoing study that aims to test the hypothesis of high soil and vegetation nutrients in high predation risk areas for ungulates, and low soil and vegetation nutrients in low predation risk areas.

EX SITU LION CONSERVATION “The one excellent thing that can be learned from a lion is that whatever a man intends doing should be done by him with a whole-hearted and strenuous effort.” Chanakya The IUCN technical guidelines for ex situ management are based on fulfilment of one or more of the following Red List criteria: “When the taxa/population is prone to effects of human activities or stochastic events or When the taxa/population is likely to become Critically Endangered, Extinct in the Wild, or Extinct in a very short time. Additional criteria may need to be considered in some cases where taxa or populations of cultural importance, and significant economic or scientific importance, are threatened” (IUCN, 2002). ALERT believes that for the African lion, these criteria apply. ALERT is concerned about a lack of empirical evidence that current in situ conservation solutions for lions are, or can work, in the long term. Given the speed of decline in lion populations, the IUCN’s Red List classification assessment that “… the reduction or its causes may not have ceased OR may not be understood OR may not be reversible”, and the time it will take to implement working strategies on a continent-wide scale, ALERT suggests it is necessary to ensure that there is a back-up plan to complement in situ efforts. Whilst wild lion populations can recover quickly, we question the fitness of the founder population at the time such recovery is possible due to in situ conservation efforts in terms of genetic diversity and disease status. The political will of the few countries that will still have lions, once sufficient truly protected land is made available to allow species recovery, may also not exist to translocate lions to create founder populations where lions have gone extinct. We therefore believe that those recovering populations can be supported by the introduction of new genetic material from a secure, disease free source.

ALERT PROGRAMMES 

African Lion Rehabilitation & Release into the Wild Programme (ongoing)

FOCUS ON: DAMBWA LION RELEASE SITE The 6 adults (1 male and 5 females) of the Dambwa pride were captive born and released into the Dambwa site in 2012, having been through Stage 1 of the lion walking programme. The cubs subsequently born to the pride have had no human contact, display natural behaviours, and are intended for release into the wild when old enough. The Dambwa pride grew in number with birth of Leya’s 3 cubs at the start of January 2014 Leya’s chosen den was in an area of the site known as “Chobe” and this gave us an excellent opportunity to explore the different denning behaviours displayed by Leya, and the pride’s other mother Rusha. Rusha had given birth to her litter in June 2013. While Rusha was secretive and would only visit the den alone, we would often pick up the signals of other pride members from Leya’s den Despite this difference in early socialisation methods between Leya and Rusha, they brought their cubs out of the den for the first time at roughly five-and-a half weeks of age. It was on 11th March that we found the two male (LE1 and LE3) and lone female (LE2) cubs with their mother Leya, outside of the den. Also in attendance was Kela, Loma and Zulu. Two days later the ‘LE’ cubs and the then-eight-and-a half month old ‘RS’ cubs were seen together. Integration between the two litters was swift, and despite a few displays

of bullying behaviour from the older cubs in the early days, within weeks the LE cubs were often initiating the rough-and-tumble play. The acceptance and integration of the cubs is crucial for the ongoing progress and social cohesion of this pride. The diagram below depicts the strength of the relationships between pride members throughout 2014. The initials around the outside (nodes) represent each Dambwa pride lion. The lines between nodes (lions) indicate a social relationship between them (as measured in terms of social licking, playing and greeting), the arrows reveal the strength and direction of the interactions coming into that lion from another, and the thickness of the line and the number reveal the strength of that relationship. Thicker lines and higher values indicate more interactions between two lions. As the diagram shows, the cubs have been fully accepted and integrated into the Dambwa pride, forming a socially cohesive family unit.

The inclusion of the LE cubs to the pride saw them also become subjects not only of our monitoring program, but also our Suckling Behaviour Study and Cub Play Development Study. Suckling behaviour is difficult to monitor, but data collection allows us to record differences in frequency, bout length and the weaning process. With only two litters of cubs in the pride thus far, we’ve seen variation in each mother’s methods. Lionesses generally cease to lactate when cubs are 5 to 6 months old, but may produce milk until cubs are 7 to 8 months (Schaller, 1978: 151). Rusha followed this timeline with her cubs in December 2013 as we observed her weaning them at the age of five-and-a half to six months. Leya however showed some fairly early signs over a two-week period in June of appearing to start weaning her cubs just prior to five-months old. This continued until early November (by which time the cubs were over 10-months old). While it’s not unknown for cubs to suckle up to 12 -months old, when the opportunity arises (Schaller, 1979: 149), this primarily occurs through communal suckling and utilising the

milk of another lioness with younger litters. Between the two litters we’ve collected data on 478 suckling bouts. The ‘RS’ cubs were already weaned before the ‘LE’ cubs were born, and this meant we didn’t have the opportunity to observe much communal suckling. There were a few instances of note however, which came from RS3 in July when we observed her twice suckling from Leya. This is primarily interesting as it was the only time we observed any of the ‘RS’ cubs trying to suckle Leya, and by that point they’d been weaned for over six months. Play development within the cubs is recorded in four categories: object, locomotory, predatory and social play. This study was started with the ‘RS’ cubs in 2013, by the end of that year we had collected 275 observations of play behaviour from them. With the RS and LE cubs combined over 2014 we have collected a further 1,130 observations of play behaviour. While growing rapidly, the ‘RSs’ and ‘LE’ cubs are still cubs and therefore data collection is continuing in this area over 2015. The results from such information can later be used for analysis between litters and genders and between cubs born in different stages of the release programme.

FOCUS ON: NGAMO LION RELEASE SITE The 6 adults (1 male and 5 females) of the pride were captive born and released into the Ngamo site in 2011, having been walked at Stage 1 of the ex situ reintroduction programme. The pridesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; cubs born in the site have had no human contact, display natural behaviours, and are intended for release into the wild when old enough. Throughout 2014 a key focus of our research on this pride has been the development of the sub-adults towards independence and self-sufficiency as they head towards adulthood. Crucial to the successful release of this second-generation of lions in the wild is their ability to hunt for themselves and to function as a cohesive unit. In 2014 we have seen hunting action without the assistance of the adults pride members, which suggests these sub-adults can now do it all by themselves. As they hone their hunting skills, the sub-adults have shown some variety in their choice of prey, including striped weasel, spurfowl, and scrub-hare, as well as their more staple foods such as zebra and impala. The pride often hunt together, as we would expect to maximise their chances of success, but it is clear that from time-to-time, the adults seize an opportunity to offer further hunting training to the younger members of their pride. Ashanti often

hunts with her offspring AS4 and AS5. The strong relationship that has always existed between Phyre and AT1 since Athena (AT1â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mother) was removed from the pride, is also borne out in their collaborative hunting behaviour. Seasoned hunter Nala is also a favoured hunting partner for all the sub-adults. However, as these sub-adults stand on the brink of adulthood we are seeing more evidence of them hunting together and in solo hunts. We are continuing to monitor this throughout 2015 as their skills further develop. With impending adulthood, relationships between the lions within a pride are of particular interest. The diagram below offers a snapshot of the social interactions between Ngamo pride members throughout 2014. The strong relationship between brother and sister AS5 and AS4 is apparent, as is the close bond between Milo and his son AS5. Cubs typically initiate many social interactions towards adults, but receive relatively few from these pride members other than their mother. However, what is also evident is that as the sub-adults continue to mature, they are enjoying being the recipients as well as the initiators of the attentions of the rest of the pride, including the adults.

EDUCATION MATTERS "In the end, we conserve only what we love.

We will love only what we

understand. We will understand only what we are taught."

Baba Dioum

Education, in all its forms, is the cornerstone for the success of all ALERT’s programmes. Education not only helps us to understand the need to conserve our natural resources, but also helps us to know how to meet these challenges, and to take advantage of the benefits generated by conservation efforts. Our education programmes therefore focus on; providing improved access to more effective basic education, enhancing the skills of communities through vocational training and life skills courses, as well as conservation education.

ALERT PROGRAMMES 

ALERT Education Centres, incorporating; o

Conservation Education (ongoing)

Basic Life Skills (ongoing)

Health & Nutrition (ongoing)

Education Funding (ongoing)

Vocational Training (fundraising)

ALERT SUPPORTED PROGRAMMES 

School Development in: o

Livingstone, Zambia at: Maunga Primary School, Maunga Pre-School, Twabuka Primary School and Natebe Community School (ongoing)

Gweru, Zimbabwe at: Mkoba 4 Primary School (special needs class), Mudavanhu School for the Disabled, Mickey Mouse Pre-School, Hopeful Life Pre-school (ongoing)

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe at: Monde Primary School, Chikamba Primary School, Simakade Primary School, Neliswi Primary School (ongoing)

FOCUS ON: ALERT EDUCATION CENTRES To date, our project sites have provided fully-funded intern or facilitated research placements to students of: the University of Zambia (Lusaka), Copperbelt University (Kitwe) and Mukwela Youth Resource Centre (Livingstone) in Zambia, University of Zimbabwe (Harare), Bulawayo Polytechnic and National University of Science & Technology (Bulawayo), Educare College, Macronet College, Gweru Polytechnic and Midlandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s State University (Gweru), Chinhoyi University of Technology (Chinhoyi) and Bindura University of Science Education (Bindura), in Zimbabwe. During 2014 we provided placements to 31 students, for a total of 183 months between them, in the fields of conservation research, marketing, guiding, and hospitality - amongst others. Also, during the year, USD 35,463 (2013: USD 10,464) was paid out to fund educational placements from primary to university level for 106 vulnerable children and young adults, benefitting 41 children at Midlands Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hope Centre in Gweru and 65 children in Victoria Falls.

On the 11th of September 2014, Gweru-based Midland State University signed an MoU with ALERT and Coventry University to further develop our conservation education programme in Zimbabwe. Heavily involved in this process was MSc Facilitated Research Student Ruth Armstrong, of Edinburgh Napier University. Meanwhile following a meeting with Copperbelt University based in Kitwe, Zambia, an MoU has been prepared between ALERT, Coventry University and Copperbelt University which includes an agreement for all parties to work together to improve upon our conservation education programmes and extend their capacity in Zambia. This work combines science with local knowledge, to ensure we deliver a conservation education curriculum that positively impacts upon students’ attitudes and behaviours, and is culturally appropriate for the children and communities we reach. The AEC in Gweru works in collaboration with Mkoba 4 Primary School teaching conservation education to the Grade 6 children. In 2014, the AEC has started also teaching a second school - Takunda Primary School. – from which 60 students have so far graduated. School authorities from both Takunda and Mkoba 4 Primary School have informed us that, after attending the AEC in Gweru, most of their students improve in their general performance at school. Conservation education has also been extended into the community further, including lessons for adults. AEC Gweru has had 652 graduates since opening. Ruth Armstrong’s study for her MSc was to research the AEC Gweru’s conservation education curriculum to assess its effectiveness. Preliminary results show that there is a significant difference between those who attend the AEC and those that did not, with the majority of AEC students retaining the information they learnt about conservation and, over time, developing a more positive attitude and perception towards wildlife and the environment. Conservation education is also delivered to schools in Victoria Falls (Chamabonda Primary School) and in Livingstone, Zambia (Mukamusaba School). In the summer of 2014, academics from Coventry University produced a 6-week conservation education course that utilises problem-based learning as a method of learning. The impact of this course on the attitudes and behaviours of the children at Mukamusaba School was assessed through surveys and group interviews. The effect on pupils at Mukamusaba was compared with children at a United Kingdom school who received the same syllabus. Although analysis of the data from both schools shows a significant change in attitudes to conservation and the environment for both populations, the most significant impact is in Zambia. An academic paper reporting this study and the results is in preparation for publication in an education journal.

FOCUS ON: SCHOOL DEVELOPMENT ALERT is currently supporting 12 schools, which are serving over 4,000 children between them. These are just some of the achievements in 2014: In addition to volunteers assisting at Monde Primary School year round, during 2014 a holiday club was operated outside of term time, providing additional input in reading, maths and arts and crafts. Teachers commented on significant improvements made by most pupils attending holiday club. Teachers have also been assisted to run additional revision classes prior to exams. Stationary, teaching aids, and 400 toothbrushes have been donated to the school; and continued refurbishment of the classrooms is ongoing. During term time project volunteers attend Mkoba 4 Primary School Special Needs Class to assist during lessons. In January, 11 out of the 20 pupils were moved back into main-stream classes. During 2014, 23 pupils attended the class, with 19 of those being moved into main-stream classes at the end of the year. Outside of Livingstone in Zambia a classroom is being constructed at Natebe School with funds from Ada Paulin and the New South Wales Land & Housing Corporation. Funds were provided to Twabuka and Maunga schools to help pay for the costs of pupils to attend a local sports festival, and refurbishment work at Maunga school was undertaken. A pre-school has been built for the Maunga Community with funds provided by the Allan and Nesta Ferguson Charitable Trust and the Estelle Trust.

SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT "Change in the societies at the very bottom must come predominantly from within;

we cannot impose it on them."

Paul Collier

We work in some of the poorest communities in the World. Developing these communities is another vital component in our Responsible Development strategy. People in these communities are in desperate need for assistance; especially vulnerable people groups such as orphans, the elderly, and people in need of medical care. ALERT supports programs that meet this variety of needs and offer new hope to some of the World’s most vulnerable people. Empowering the vulnerable is the key to long term growth and a brighter future for those living in these communities.

ALERT SUPPORTED PROGRAMMES 

Community Agriculture, Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe (ongoing)

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Midlands Children’s Hope & Drop-in Centre, Gweru, Zimbabwe (ongoing)

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Midlands Children’s Home (aka Rosedale Orphanage), Gweru, Zimbabwe (ongoing)

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Victoria Falls Old People’s Home, Zimbabwe (ongoing)

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Mkoba 1 Polyclinic, Gweru, Zimbabwe (ongoing)

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Mkoba 4 Polyclinic, Gweru, Zimbabwe (ongoing)

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Mtapa Polyclinic, Gweru, Zimbabwe (ongoing)

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Senga Polyclinic, Gweru, Zimbabwe (ongoing)

FOCUS ON: MIDLANDS CHILDREN’S HOPE CENTRE MCHC was founded by community members in response to the growing number of street children living in Gweru, Zimbabwe. The centre works with orphans and vulnerable children, operating a rehabilitation shelter in the Mkoba township in the west of the city, and a drop-In Centre for children living on the streets, with the aim of rehabilitating them into mainstream society and education, and reunifying them with their families. A community kitchen at the Centre caters for the city’s destitute with a free meal for them each weekday. Without it, they would go hungry and many would be forced into criminal activities to survive. In 2014 work on building a girls’ dormitory has commenced, and the vegetable garden has been prepared and planted – with excess produce already being sold to raise finance for the MCHC. Part of the work done at the boy’s orphanage is to assist the boys with their academic school work. Antelope Park staff and volunteers assist the children, of diverse ages, with their homework and give extra lessons. After spending some time on the streets and not attending school it is not easy to just ‘fit in’, in the school environment. So what we do is try to help the boys get more acquainted with school work at a faster rate than they would on their own, and help them be the best they can be. This is working for most of the students as can be noted from their school exam results. Hygiene lessons were also given to the boys by volunteers, to remind them of hygiene and health and safety issues for everyday life. Donations to this projects have helped pay for the utilities and rental charges, whilst materials have also been purchased including blankets, kitchen equipment, clothes, and equipment for school, such as uniforms and books .

BITE SIZED: Community Agriculture, Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe ALERT is currently supporting three community gardens to enhance nutrition and create income generating opportunities for vulnerable communities. In 2014 we arranged for Chinotimba garden to supply Kingdom Hotel, Zambezi Trader; a luxury house boat on Lake Kariba, and several supermarkets, as well as Victoria Falls Safari Lodge and the Boma cultural experience restaurant. A training course was been arranged for one project member on how to get the most out of using a greenhouse. The session teaches about the range of different crops they can grow in a greenhouse and how to plan ahead to get the best yields of seasonal produce. Assistance was provided to all gardens, especially during the replanting season. Midlands Children’s Home (aka Rosedale Orphanage), Gweru, Zimbabwe In addition to volunteer assistance at the orphanage, stationary, story books, colouring books, children’s DVD’s, toys, clothes, shoes, skipping ropes and football donations were given during the year. Victoria Falls Old People’s Home, Zimbabwe With funds received from the Landsberg Foundation the roof of the Victoria Falls Old People’s Home has been replaced. Mkoba 1, Mkoba 4, Mtapa and Senga Polyclinics, Gweru, Zimbabwe ALERT is currently supporting four healthcare facilities serving a catchment of over 120,000 people. Volunteers assist medical staff throughout the year, whilst donations assist to provide additional resources for these clinics, and upgrade facilities. In 2014, volunteers assisted in a two week outreach program for school children, whilst transport was also provided to facilitate the programme. The team visited four primary schools and 18 preschools, assessing and treating around 2,000 children aged from under 12 months up to 10 years.

CONSERVING BIODIVERSITY “It is that range of biodiversity that we must care for - the whole thing - rather than just one or two stars.” David Attenborough Biodiversity and human well-being are intrinsically linked. Biodiversity contributes to essential aspects of our daily lives; food and energy provision, security, clean water as well as providing recreational and cultural activities. Biodiversity provides resistance to natural disasters and the spread of zoonotic diseases, and may be the source of as yet undiscovered foods and medicines. Neither humans, nor lions, can survive in isolation. Both are reliant on functional ecosystems. As such, we seek to engage in activities that conserve all of Africa’s wild species, and the ecosystems within which they live and on which we rely.

ALERT PROGRAMMES 

Zambezi National Park Large Predator Assessment, Zimbabwe (ongoing)

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Forest Management, Dambwa, Zambia (ongoing)

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Entomological Survey in Zambezi & Victoria Falls National Parks, Zimbabwe (ongoing)

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Vegetation Mapping Survey in Zambezi National Park, Zimbabwe (ongoing)

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Biodiversity Assessment in the Zambezi National Park, Zimbabwe (ongoing)

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Chimpanzee Conservation, Burundi (ongoing)

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Elephant Monitoring and Mitigating Human Elephant Conflict, Livingstone, Zambia (completed)

ALERT SUPPORTED PROGRAMMES 

Vulture Population Monitoring, Livingstone, Zambia (ongoing)

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Invasive Species Removal / Biological Monitoring, Victoria Falls National Park, Zimbabwe (ongoing)

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Park Management Assistance, Zambezi & Victoria Falls National Parks, Zimbabwe (ongoing)

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Contributing to the Southern Africa Bird Atlas, Zambezi & Victoria Falls National Parks, Zimbabwe (ongoing)

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Sable Habitat Selection Study, Zambezi National Park, Zimbabwe (completed)

FOCUS ON: FOREST MANAGEMENT ALERT is working with the Dambwa Joint Forest Management Committee (JFMC), comprising of communities close to the Forest, and the Zambian Forestry Department to regenerate the Forest and create revenue generating potential from the sustainable use of forest resources. Payments are made to the JFMC towards this goal that have been generated by the commercial elements of the African Lion Rehabilitation & Release into the Wild Programme that is operated by our local partner, Lion Encounter. A large portion of the Forest has been leased from the Zambian government for this Programme. To date ZMW 289,372 (+- USD 45,932) of funds have been generated for the JFMC. During 2014, ALERT undertook a project entitled â&#x20AC;&#x153;Safety and Sustainability in the Dambwa Forest, Zambiaâ&#x20AC;?. Zambia has seen rampant deforestation in the past decades and recent reports from the Food & Agriculture Organisation suggest the country now suffers the second highest deforestation per capita in the world; with an estimated deforestation rate of 250,000 to 300,000 hectares per year. Wood-burning fires are responsible for some 17% of carbon dioxide emissions globally. Added to this, over-exposure to these open fires during cooking can cause bronchitis, asthma, and lung cancer. According to the World Health Organisation nearly 2 million people a year die prematurely from illness attributable to indoor air pollution due to solid fuel use â&#x20AC;&#x201C; more than the number of people who die each year from Malaria. Additional to the negative impact this practice has on health, it is also both economically and environmentally damaging. Trees are cut down for firewood, resulting in increased soil erosion and reduced nutrient flow. Heavy annual rains sweep fertile topsoil from the fields, causing a reduction in harvests. As forests continue to reduce in extent and density, regional climate change will result in negative impacts on agricultural output. The purpose of this project was to provide a sustainable method of cooking that will be actively embraced by these communities in the long-term; thereby eliminating the risk to health posed by regular exposure to carbon-monoxide and also the risk to the environment through the over-utilisation of natural resources. With funding provided by The Woodspring Trust, ALERT chose to partner on this project with co2balance, a UK-based company with headquarters in Nairobi, that works to reduce carbon emissions in developing countries. As a leading authority on community carbon project development, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa, co2balance was ideally placed to assist ALERT in the implementation of this initiative. During the project, a total of 336 low-carbon cookstoves were delivered, one to every household in all villages immediately surrounding the Dambwa Forest. Every household was also given an educational session on the need to protect and restore the Dambwa Forest, the principle causes and impacts of deforestation, as well as how to use and maintain their low-carbon cookstove.

Prior to implementation, a survey was conducted to provide baseline data on the amount of wood used by households in the target community. The average per capita consumption was found to be 1,231kg, in line with previous results for this Province. Following delivery of the stoves, fuel usage was reassessed and the per capita annual consumption rate had fallen to between 337 and 435kg â&#x20AC;&#x201C; with an average 69% fall from previous rates. This was in line with the 70% expected fall for the stove design as given by co2balance. Households were further surveyed prior to receiving the low-carbon cookstoves with all respondents reporting the use of firewood as fuel for cooking and heating, obtained from Dambwa Forest. It is predominantly collected by women, who are the primary cooks in the household. Households recognised that deforestation is a major problem in Dambwa Forest. When asked whose responsibility it was to protect the forest, all stated that it should be the Forestry Department delivering this service through monitoring of trees and preventing unsustainable logging. However, it was also noted that the community needs to facilitate Forestry in this aim by putting a halt to tree-cutting at its current rate. The community is very aware of the threats this practice has upon Dambwa Forest, including climate change, reduction in rainfall and shade, soil erosion, and the eventual loss of the forest. Some respondents reported a sharp decline in trees over the last 10 year period. Suggested solutions to this problem included educating the community about the actual rate of deforestation and its consequences, and the introduction of alternative methods of cooking that are sustainable in rural areas. After receiving the new cookstoves, these households were surveyed again to find out how well they were received. Respondents expressed liking the cookstoves and an intention to continue using them. Benefits included their economy in terms of time taken in the Forest to collect wood as less wood is needed, the reduction in tree-cutting, and the food tasting better as a result of being cooked on the cookstoves. They also reported less smoke from the cooking process which was considered a benefit. Overall, the cookstoves have been welcomed by the Dambwa Forest communities. The collective will is there to protect the Forest and the cookstoves empower local people to make a choice that will help them to do so. Additionally, in partnership with Lion Encounter and Greenpop, over 1,900 indigenous trees have already been planted in the Dambwa Forest as part of ongoing efforts to replace lost trees. A tree nursery has now also been created to continue growing and planting of new trees.

FOCUS ON: ZAMBEZI NP LARGE PREDATOR ASSESSMENT Zimbabwe's 56,200 hectare Zambezi National Park (ZNP) is home to five species of large predator including; Spotted Hyena (Crocuta crocuta), Cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus), Leopard (Panthera pardus), Lion (Panthera leo) and African Wild Dog (Lycaon pictus). No previous study has been conducted on predator species within the park, but the Zimbabwe Parks & Wildlife Management Authority (ZPWMA) estimate numbers to be low despite fairly high concentrations of antelope found in the basalt woodlands below the sand ridge, and stretching all the way to the Zambezi River. This habitat should, under normal circumstances, be good hunting ground for predators and support a healthy population of each species. This study, in partnership with ZPWMA, aims to establish baseline data for each of the five large predator species within the ZNP such that species specific studies can be developed to determine their ecology in this location. The end goal of the study is to assist in the creation of sound conservation management plans to ensure the long term viability for all large predator species within the Zambezi National Park. Replicate surveys conducted during 2014 identified over five hundred incidences (i.e. spoors, scat and visual sightings) of predator presence. 86.1% were from Spotted Hyenas, 6.95% from African Wild Dogs, 6.56% from Leopards and 0.19% from Cheetah. The map shows where within the park these predators were sighted and which ones they were.

BITE SIZED: Entomological Survey in Zambezi & Victoria Falls National Parks, Zimbabwe During 2014 we were able to assess 18 survey plots within the Zambezi National Park. Collected specimens were submitted for verification to the entomologist at the Natural History Museum in Bulawayo. To date, the project has identified 17 orders and 103 families of insects within the Zambezi National Park. Park Management Assistance, Zambezi & Victoria Falls National Parks, Zimbabwe Throughout the year we managed to conduct several activities to assist the Zimbabwe National Parks & Wildlife Authority with management of the Zambezi and Victoria Falls National Parks. Assistance was provided to create fire breaks within the Victoria Falls rainforest and clearing the pathways when grass and twigs would have made tours difficult. Litter picking exercises were also conducted during which time we assisted in building a natural fence along part of the Zambezi River in order to stop people from littering on the river bank whilst they conduct illegal picnics. The project also assisted with maintaining some parts of the road which had previously minimised vehicular access to some sections of the Park. Vegetation Mapping Survey in Zambezi National Park, Zimbabwe Data collection for this survey has been completed. We are now preparing to analyse that data with the ultimate aim of creating a vegetation map that can be utilised by the Zimbabwe Parks & Wildlife Management Authority, as well as researchers from any organization undertaking surveys within the Park. Vulture Population Monitoring, Livingstone, Zambia (ongoing) Monitoring of vulture populations in this location continues, with collected data being provided to BirdLife Zambia for analysis. Invasive Species Removal / Biological Monitoring, Victoria Falls National Park, Zimbabwe (ongoing) Activities are ongoing to remove invasive alien species from the Park. We are also fundraising to undertake specific research objectives related to this effort, and for materials for the programme to be more effective. Contributing to the Southern Africa Bird Atlas, Zambezi & Victoria Falls National Parks, Zimbabwe (ongoing) Survey activities continue to record the diversity of bird life in these Parks. All data is provided to the Animal Demography Unit at the University of Cape Town.

Biodiversity Assessment in the Zambezi National Park, Zimbabwe During 2014, 117 road strip counts, each of 25km, were conducted to assess the biodiversity of large mammals. The animals sighted and counted are listed in the legend of the diagram below. The y-axis shows the Visual Relative Abundance Index (VRAI) / 100km for mammalian species.

Chimpanzee Conservation, Burundi In July 2012 ALERT signed an agreement with the Government of the Republic of Burundi to jointly manage Bururi, Vyanda and Kigwena Natural Reserves using ALERT's responsible development principles. These forests are home to an ecologically important population of chimpanzees. Under Burundian law the next stage is to prepare a Convention of Implementation. Throughout 2013 and 2014 meetings have been held in Burundi, Zambia and Zimbabwe towards completion of this document. A final draft has been submitted to the Government for approval.

KEY FINANCIAL RESULTS* 2014 HIGHLIGHTS 

Total income for 2014 rose 12.9% against 2013’s results to $562,606. The biggest increases were from individual donations (up 36.7%), income derived from the internship programme (up 26.6%) and from grants awarded (up 26.5%).



Fundraising efficiency was the same as achieved in 2013 at $0.27 spent to raise each $1.00, although this figure is different for each income stream. For donations, fundraising efficiency was $0.05 spent for each $1.00 raised, for merchandising $0.34 for $1.00, and for our various visitor programmes $0.59 was spent to raise $1.00.



Project Spend was $351,641; a 24.7% increase on 2013.



Governance cost was reduced to 10.4% of resources expended (2013: 11.8%).

INCOME ALERT seeks to diversify its income sources in order to ensure a steady flow of funding for its programmes, and cushion the Charity against fluctuations in any one income source as a result of events outside of our control. As such, income is achieved from four principle sources: donations, merchandising, visitor programmes and miscellaneous other sources. Income Source Donations Merchandising Visitor programmes Other sources All sources +

2013 294,877 33,633 165,538 4,343 498,390

2014 315,578 22,620 218,166 6,839++ 563,204

Fundraising Efficiency 2014+ 0.05 0.34 0.59 0.00 0.27

Fundraising efficiency shows the amount spent to raise $1

Income from filming access fees charged to the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) who filmed the lions In stages 1 and 2 at our Livingstone Project for a TV series to be broadcast in 2015

* All figures are stated in United States Dollars ($) and represent the consolidated accounts for ALERT UK, USA, Zambia and Zimbabwe. Comparative figures of the territory entities have already been independently audited or examined (with the exception of ALERT USA), and the 2014 figures will undergo independent audit or examination in the near future.

DONATION INCOME SOURCES Income Source Individual Donors Corporate Donors Grant Foundation / Trust Donors In-Kind Donations Membership Packages Sponsorship Programmes Affinity Product Donors Gift Aid Other donation sources TOTAL

2013 67,001 134,668 71,783 1,019 3,833 12,506 2,848 1,219 294,877

2014 82,476 103,449 90,813 5,064 3,360 13,753 2,940 13,021 703 315,578

VISITOR PROGRAMMES INCOME ALERT offers a variety of means to visit out projects. Facilitated Research Programmes are for students wishing to collect data for their dissertation or thesis. Internships are for those seeking work experience or who have skills in a particular area they feel would benefit our organization, such as animal management or community based research. Volunteer Programmes are for self-funded visitors wishing to join our programmes for longer periods to assist staff in their work, whilst guest programmes are available for the short term visitor to experience our work first-hand. In addition to the income derived from these programmes for ALERT, these visitors also provide us with additional manpower on the ground so that we can operate more effectively. These programmes are operated on a commercial basis where the costs of sales include local transport and room & board for the visitor. Income Source Facilitated Research Programmes

2013 16,834

2014 22,041

Internship Programmes

127,896

161,945

Volunteer Programmes

9,550

21,030

11,258

13,150

165,538

218,166

Guest Programmes TOTAL

FINANCIAL POSITION 2013

2014

91,430

118,086

7,523

5,755

Other receivables

87,441

89,830

Prepayments

11,510

Cash and cash equivalents

89,092

110,753

195,566

206,338

286,996

324,424

224,726

229,378

Current Liabilities

3,275

5,955

Provisions

9,890

10,680

Loan

18,520

Deferred Income

63,360

45,635

Sub-total

95,045

62,270

286,996

324,424

Non-current assets Current assets Inventories

Sub-total Total Assets Equity and Liabilities Accumulated Surplus Liabilities

Total Equity and Liabilities

OUR LEADERSHIP TEAM

Our Patron - Sir Ranulph Twistleton-Wykeham-Fiennes, 3rd Baronet, OBE Epitomising the bravery, leadership and fortitude as exemplified in the symbolism of the lion, ALERT is proud to present our patron Sir Ranulph Fiennes. Ran agreed to become patron in early September 2007 following his attendance at the first stage two release of the African Lion Rehabilitation & Release into the Wild Programme. “I am extremely proud to represent ALERT, not just because of its forward thinking work to help save the African lion, but because they are looking at the wider issues in conservation on the African continent; looking at the whole eco-system within which the lion lives; trying to find ways to develop management plans that will work in the long term and involving and empowering local communities every step of the way. I am also refreshed by ALERT’s willingness to work alongside other organizations in partnership, to share ideas and draw different people together to try and find the best solutions to face Africa’s challenges.”

Our Trustees – the following people served as trustees during 2014 Andrew Craig Aldridge (ALERT USA - Chairman) - Craig grew up in Saudi Arabia and has a passion for travel and wildlife. He worked for ALERT for two years in Zambia before relocating to the UK. Craig continues to follow his passion by supporting our work as a trustee for the charity he assisted in establishing in the US. Sandra Berrey (ALERT USA) - Sandra attended Dominica College studying Liberal Arts with a concentration on art history. Since 1996 she has visited Africa many times, having travelled in South Africa, Botswana, Zambia, Namibia and Zimbabwe. Sandra now works as an African travel specialist in San Francisco. Robert Burton (ALERT UK) - Robert has over 26 years of finance experience, of which the last 16 have been spent in a Fiduciary Services environment. He was educated in the Isle of Man and following the completion of a BA (Econ) at the University of Manchester, commenced accountancy training with Pannell Kerr Forster (PKF), qualifying as a Chartered Accountant in 1991. His role at PKF was predominantly audit and corporate finance based. In 1997 he joined LJ Skye and is currently CFO and Head of Compliance across the LJ Skye group of companies.

Andrew Conolly (ALERT Zambia, ALERT Zimbabwe) - Andrew was born in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. Having read for a Bachelor of Commerce Degree at the University of Natal he became a successful cattle and game farmer in the Matobo Hills before purchasing Antelope Park in 1987 near the city of Gweru in the Zimbabwe Midlands to begin game ranching. In 1998 he branched out into tourism and founded African Encounter, now comprising a range of award winning tourism programs, many based around conservation and community development initiatives. In 2005 Andrew founded the African Lion & Environmental Research Trust and in 2007 also developed the Happy Africa Foundation. Andrew was nominated to the Indianapolis Prize 2014, the world's leading award for conservation, which recognizes people who have made "extraordinary contributions to conservation". Tamara Matthews (ALERT USA) - Tamara hails from Stockton, California where, between stints as a loan processor and real estate agent, has undertaken voluntary work for a variety of organizations, including on ALERT's projects in Zambia. A mother of six Tamara brings a great passion for wildlife in support of ALERT. Stephen McCormick (ALERT Zambia) - Steve was born in Harare, Zimbabwe. He is the founder member of Consolidated Tourism Investments (CTI) Limited and Safari Par Excellence Limited, and is a shareholder and director of Virgin Adventures Limited. He graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of the Witwatersrand in 1984 with majors in marketing and accounting. Steve chose to get involved in the tourism industry in 1988 when he started Safari Par Excellence in Zimbabwe before moving his focus in adventure tourism to Zambia in 1991. His passion for wildlife and conservation led to his partnership with Andrew and Wendy Conolly in 2002. Dr. Charles Msipa (ALERT Zimbabwe - Chairman) - After training as a lawyer at the University of Zimbabwe, Charles began practicing law with a Harare based law firm in 1998. His career has led him to the UK banking industry and to the USA with Coca-Cola. Back in Harare he is now Managing Director of Schweppes Zimbabwe and was recently elected President of the Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries. He holds BL and LLB degrees from the University of Zimbabwe, Master of (International) Laws from University of Edinburgh and Master of Arts in International Relations from the Fletcher School of Law & Diplomacy, Tufts University, Massachusetts, USA. Timothy Mushibwe (ALERT Zambia) - Timothy attended school at Masala Secondary School in Ndola, Zambia, before transferring to Cornwall Technical College and then completing a BSc at Leeds University. In 1999 he qualified as a member and in 2004 as a fellow of both the Association of Chartered Accountants in the UK, and with the Zambia Institute of Chartered Accountants. In his career Timothy has held various senior executive roles in the Zambian corporate world, including Managing Partner of Deloitte & Touche, Senior Partner of Baker Tilly Meralis, the Chairman of Real Estate Investments Zambia Plc, the Zambia Tourism Board and Professional Life Assurance Company. He also serves as an Independent Director in the role of Chairman of the Audit Committee, representing the public, on the board of the Lusaka Stock Exchange. Timothyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s interests in the field of conservation are broad and extensive. They include being a founding member of the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation (Zambia), Game Rangers International and Conservation Lower Zambezi, as well as being a non-Executive Director for African Parks, Liuwa National Park (Zambia). He was the Leading Consultant and Interim Manager during the transformation of National Parks & Wildlife to the Zambia Wildlife Authority (ZAWA). Timothy has also previously served as a member of the Financial Advisory Committee of ZAWA to improve governance. In early 2015 Timothy Mushibwe sadly passed away. His passion for wildlife, and his guidance will be sorely missed.

Clive Needham (ALERT UK - Chairman) - Clive has had 20 years’ experience in the offshore industry. He qualified as a Chartered Accountant with Wilkins Kennedy in 1992 before returning to the Isle of Man and obtaining his practising certificate with a local firm. In 1996 he moved to LJ Skye, a firm of company trust and administration practitioners, and is currently the Managing Director. Clive also acts as a non-executive Director on a number of Funds and has acted as a non-executive director on an AIM listed Company. He studied accountancy at Liverpool University. Samuel Ralph Pecker (ALERT Zambia) - Ralph is a partner and founder of Zambian Investment Projects (ZIP) and his roles range from promoting Zambia, directing on several Zambian boards to Executive Advisory Services and Project Management. In the last 15 years Ralph has lived in the USA and UK working for large international corporations driving their European, Middle East and African (EMEA) business development strategies. Southern Africa and in particular Zambia for the last 10 years has been his main focus. Companies like Cognos Inc., the largest Business Intelligence corporation globally, and Logsys UK, a security intelligence systems for UK Police and Military. David Scott (ALERT Zambia - Chairman, ALERT Zimbabwe) - Dave Scott did his articles with a small accountancy firm; Geo. McKenzie & Co., from 1969-1975. He then sought exposure at the then biggest professional firm in Bulawayo, Scot-Russell Murray & Pugh from 1975-78. He joined Price Waterhouse in Bulawayo in August 1978. He worked with PW in the Boston (USA), Francistown and Gaborone (Botswana) offices before returning to Zimbabwe in 1996. He was admitted to the PW partnership in 1985 and became senior partner in 2001. Dave was the Territory Senior Partner of PricewaterhouseCoopers Central Africa responsible for the overall management and strategic direction and profitability of the firm. He was directly responsible for international relations with other territories in the PwC worldwide network and for co-ordination of their services to all major clients across all their service lines. He was also directly responsible for their Liquidations and Judicial Management unit in Harare and served as the client relationship partner on their major clients. He has a broad range of professional experience and has been involved in audit, taxation, financial and business advisory services to many clients; he is experienced in managing projects and reporting assignments involving multinational groups and reporting requirements for multi-office projects. Dave chose early retirement in June 2007 to pursue personal interests, including wildlife conservation project fundraising and project management, along with freelance business services consulting. He remains part-time employed by PricewaterhouseCoopers as a freelance consultant. Dave has served as a professional advisor on a number of committees of schools and business associations over many years. He has been involved in organizing/directing a number of public business forums and professional conventions. Dave is past President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Zimbabwe (”ICAZ”) and has served on the following ICAZ committees: 

Council of ICAZ.



Chairman of the Auditing Standards and Procedures Committee.



Working Party at ICAZ covering Fraud and Corruption in Zimbabwe.



Working Party at ICAZ covering the new Banking Act promulgated in 1997/8 including presentations to Parliamentary workshop presiding over this new legislation.



Represents ICAZ on the Eastern Central and Southern African Federation of Accountants.



Represents ICAZ on the National Task Force on Corporate Governance.

Our Executive Committee Dr. Norman Monks, Chief Executive Officer - Norman joined ALERT in February 2014 as Director of Conservation, taking over as CEO at the end of the year. He holds an MSc in Conservation Biology from the University of Kent in Canterbury, a Certificate in Industrial Environmental Management from Rhodes University, as well as a Doctorate in Wildlife Management from the University of the Free State. Norman’s MSc research study was entitled “The Population Status, Diurnal Activity Patterns, Range and Territory Size, and Habitat Use by the White Rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum) in Kyle Recreational Park, Zimbabwe”. His PhD study on lions was entitled “The Demography and Population Status of Lions (Panthera leo) in the Mana Pools National Park, Zimbabwe.” Norman’s 36 years of experience of working for the Zimbabwe Parks & Wildlife Management Authority has included the management of the Authority’s Game Ranching Research Unit, Gonarezhou National Park, and two UNESCO World Heritage Sites at Mana Pools National Park and Matopos National Park. He has overseen all aspects of management including tourism, law enforcement, conservation, research and administration. Norman is a member of the African Lion Working Group and IUCN SSC Conservation Breeding Specialist Group. In 2003 Norman was presented with the “Researcher of the Year” award by the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority and in 2005 he was awarded the “Conservationist of the Year” award by the Conservation division of Safari Club International for his conservation and management contribution during his long career in the Parks and Wildlife Management Authority of Zimbabwe. Dr. Jacqueline Abell, Director of Research - Jackie joined ALERT in 2013 having volunteered and interned with ALERT several times during the preceding years. Jackie has graduated with an MA (Hons) from Dundee University, an MSc from Lancaster University, a second MSc in Animal Behaviour from Manchester Metropolitan University, as well as a Doctorate in Philosophy/Psychology from Loughborough University. Jackie brings multi-disciplinary experience to conservation that we believe is vital in ensuring that our programs achieve the greatest likelihood of success. Jackie is currently affiliated with Coventry University and is a member of the IUCN SSC Conservation Breeding Specialist Group. David Youldon, Director - David joined ALERT in October 2006, at which time nothing more existed of the charity except the name and a broad concept. Since then David has overseen the growth of ALERT year on year in terms of; the breadth and depth of our programs, our funding levels, support within the conservation ‘industry’, and global reach in raising awareness of the need for urgent action to ensure a secure future for Africa’s lions. In 2009 and 2010 David presented and co-produced two series about our work for ITV in the UK; Lion Country continues to broadcast worldwide to huge audiences. David has also filmed for other TV networks about our work, including the BBC. In 2010 David was awarded the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority Personality of the Year Award for conservation and environmental contributions to the industry. David is a graduate of Ealing and Warnborough Colleges (including achieving an Advanced Cert. in Wildlife Management), has studied with Oxford University, and is currently affiliated with Edinburgh University where he is completing his Masters in Biodiversity, Wildlife and Ecosystem Health. He is a member of both the IUCN SSC Conservation Breeding & Reintroduction Specialist Groups. During 2014, David requested to step down as Chief Operating Officer to refocus his attention on field research.

OUR PARTNERS & SPONSORS

 Guinea Ministry of the Environment, Water and Forests  Midlands Children’s Hope Project (Norway)  Champions for Children  Landsberg Foundation  Estelle Trust  Midlands State University

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS IN 2014: FOR ANTI-POACHING Abraham Buditama Andrew Dow Andrew Storer Begg Nature Photography Bradley Gillespie Carlyle Coash Chad Williams Chris Baron Chris Sumners Colin Bell Conny Grip Cornelia Meier David Smith Derek Dwane Diana Hawkins Dianne Batis Elisabetta LevisStrada Enrique del Rosario Fernando Loperena Francesco Palma Garth Olson Gauthier Rosseau Gillian Glass Harley Johnson Hubert Mollaret James Shook Jamie McGregor Jason McNully JC Strauss Joseph Chernov Katherine Jawad Kim Carnaby Koen Maes Landon Botha Lillian Carswell Lohse Kaare Lucea Keller Lynn Keane Mark Hamon Michael Cousten Michael Iacomini Michael Lavooi Michelle Kory Mike Roberts Nicholas Moore Patrick Buat Paul Wilson R Borland Robert Denehy

Robert Malpas Robert Triner Roy Uwe Ludwig Horn Ryan Gausman Stephane Crayne Stephen McNallen TK Jenkins Toby Schaffer Uys Prinsloo Vicky Buckley Wayne Russell Yinso Chen

FOR HUMAN / LION CONFLICT Alice Owen-Jones West Midlands Safari Park FOR MATUSADONA LIONS PROJECT Charles F Patton Middle School Idea Wild Joseph & Becky Waterfield Lorna Harvey Mr Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Farrill

FOR SCHOOL DEVELOPMENT Academy for Distance Learning Ada Paulin Allison Reynolds Andrew Strassler Andy Nierenberg Barbara Blumenfeld Beth & David Strassler Bob Russo Brian Singer Catherine James Danielle Posner Gillian Provan Gregory S Pearson J. Stuart Moore Jade Carmosino Joan Blumenfeld Joe Bock Karen Blumenfeld Kristen Blumenfeld Laurie Blumenfeld Russo Liana Nierenberg Linda Harper Mark Orme Mary Peterson NSW Land & Housing Corp. Patricia Campbell Ramcharan Vijayaraghavan Samantha Davidson Sammi Faust Sarah Booker Shelby Booker Stuart W. Moore Sue Joustra Whit Weaver

FOR ALERT EDUCATION CENTRES Breanna Nothrup Catherine McGarvey Danielle Anderson Gorilla Technology Joseph & Becky Waterfield Lakshmi Shajpal Margaret Ethelston Marjanne Kameka Mark & Helen Rennie Mrs D S Barker Nicola Lever-Jones Nicole White Paul Varga Simone Treksler

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS IN 2014: FOR MIDLANDS CHILDREN’S HOPE CENTRE Alan Calder-McNicoll Alice Back Allison Watkins Amrita Badhwar Anna de Lange Anna Elizabeth Maeland Anthony Canata Anton Kireev Beatrice Achterberg Carel de Lange Carol Gordon Pope Catherine Mcavoy Christina Larsson Danny Watson Dawn Shannon Edward Fernando Elizabeth Goverud Elizabeth Rekevik Emma Bird Eryn Smith Eun Mi Kim Fiona Barnes Florence Dou Gunn Indreiten Hanna Ishol Hanna Thommessen Hannah Davidson Hannah Hayes Harriet Lund Hauge Heather Atkinson Heidi Swain Helen Court Hugo Miguel Alipio Duraes Ida Indreiten Ida Tømmervik James Brown James Payne Kathleen Whitbeck Katrin Kreul Kristin Jensen L Yeates Leah Brodbeck Leslie Cliburn Linda Wirth Linn Uteng Margaret Ethelston Mari Sagafos Andersen Maria Bedoya

Maria Brynestad Marte Husoy May Linn Fengaas Michael O'Donnell Michael Pepper Molly Thoms Mr Jonny Way Mr Ryan Partner Nicole Barr Nila Naik Paola Ward Pauline Taylor Renate Bukkoey Sally Fry Shannon Tugwell Shawn Hallett Shirley Bradley Siobhan Adeusi Susanne Dieroff Hay Susanne Nips Triffa & Tara Abbasi Ulrikke Bing Young (Glory) Kim FOR AFRICAN LION REHABILITATION & RELEASE INTO THE WILD PROGRAMME Ada Paulin Ali Fleming Amanda Blaska Anita Herrera Hamilton Anita Petrinjak Annabelle Kinnear Avril Wise Ben Mcgowan Cassandra Willis Charles F Patton Middle School Chris K Arabian Chris McGough Claire O'Neill Colleen Robinson Daniela Vitancourt David Bloomfield Deirdre Huxley Derek Watts Emily Koetsier Eric Grant Heather Millington Ingrid Mele IS Sakhabuth

Italo Pulin Jacco Maat Jason N Frowley Jayne Harrison Jeremy Smith Jill Johnson Karen Diedrich Karin Irmgard Gierschik Kathryn Elliott Kerry Lamont Kim Bloomfield Kirya Gortmaker Kylie Bridgeman L Tyler Laura Galluzzi Leonie Bayley Lidiya Mäenpää Lionel Birrer Lisa Macnaughton M Watts Madeline Lalor Margaret O'Neill Marie Isabel Manrique Gallego Mark Harrington Mark Silver Meghan Geschwendt Michael Bates Michael Vogelmann Michael Watts Michaela Channings Miss Karen Everest Miss V Geddes Mr C Undery Mr S Marshall Mr T Szpiro Mrs M Hall Mrs M Undery Mrs N Sherwood Nita Nanda Noreen Agis Paola Susin Parminder Singh Ria Die Ste Croix Rose City Mortgage Specialists Samantha Trewin Sami Dimond Sarah Herquin Sarah L Jansen SJ Crowther SL King Sophie Reijman

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS IN 2014: Stacey Wlodarek Stefan Budde Stephen Longe Steven William Turner Susan Brice T Healey Thomas Morgan Tiffany Huxley Tony Willison Tristan Lee Ulrikke Bing Valerie Agu Vanessa Turinelli Wayne Van Blitterswyk Wendi Bergamini FOR THEIR SUPPORT OF ALERT ACP Innovation Fund Akash Patel Alison Taylor Andrew Dodd Apple's Workplace Giving Program Asa Granados Barbara Messner Barbara Mullin Boeing Employees Individual Giving Program Brendan Boniface - Radicool Kids Clothing C & V Brackstone C Burton Carol Patterson Carol Sanderson Chantelle McLaren-Smith Charles Hilley Christina Bruun Christina Houston Christopher Walton Curtis Stirling Daniel Nijs Darrell DeSouza Debbie Smail Denise East Diane Roberts Dzamila Hrtusova Emily Tissiman FLOAT Apparel Graham Osborne

Gustav Polisano Helen Wilderspin Helena Kubler Howard Rirch Irene Voight Jay Fiers Jenifer Wells Jennifer Emmett Jet Auer de Saram Jill Calvert Kaia Los Huertos Kerry Lamont Kevin Martinez Khalda Enwright Kim Pengalese Kris Larson Kristin Novak Leah Burden LH Edwards Linda Barnett Linda Davidson Lisa Rowles LM Gibson Lorna Harvey Lucy Argyle Luisa Tarczynski-Bowles Madeline Grozik Manuel Diaz Mark Cooper Meghan Geschwendt Miss Katherine Cooper Miss M J Smith Miss Victoria Edwards N Brackstone Neil Stirton Nicholas M Roberts On The Go Tours Oystein Garnes Plymouth Zoological Society Raneel Kumar Rebecka Lindskog S Adeusi Sabine Diederichs Savannah Sevenzo Scott Bailey Scott Deeds Scott Houston Stacey Wlodarek Sue Hale Titia van den Berg

Trudy en Joop Pronk U Nayee Victoria Murphy Viki Lane Wilhelmina CC Drost

www.lionalert.org info@lionalert.org

African Lion & Environmental Research Trust (UK) 39 St. Jamesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Place London SW1A 1NS United Kingdom UK Charity Commission Number: 1120572 African Lion & Environmental Research Trust (USA) c/o William D Evers 1725 Clay Street STE 100 San Francisco CA 94109-8805 501 (c)3 status with EIN: 45-3782687 Public charity status: 170(b)(1)(A)(vi) African Lion & Environmental Research Trust (Zambia) c/o 3/J/297A Leopards Hill Road P.O. Box 32322 Lusaka Zambia Zambia Charity Registration Number: ORS/102/35/3583 African Lion & Environmental Research Trust (Zimbabwe) Shop 8, Bata Building Livingstone Way Victoria Falls Zimbabwe Zimbabwe Protocol No 68: MA82/2008