Saving Ngorongoro - A Coexistence Story Focuses on Human-Wildlife Conflicts

This documentary by award-winning photographer and filmmaker Joshua Asel explores the Ngorongoro Conservation Area in northern Tanzania, one of the world’s greatest reservoirs of large mammal biodiversity and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, while highlighting the delicate balance between wildlife, people, and land.

In the heart of northern Tanzania lies the Ngorongoro Conservation Area (8,292 km²)—a unique landscape where more than 90,000 people live side by side with some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife. A core component of the world-renowned Ngorongoro-Serengeti-Mara Ecosystem, it is home to lions, elephants, buffalo, wildebeest, and countless other species.

At the center of this landscape is the Ngorongoro Crater, the world’s largest inactive, intact volcanic caldera. Once an active volcano two million years ago, it now shelters around 25,000 large mammals, including one of the highest densities of lions in Africa. Its steep walls form a natural enclosure, creating one of the most extraordinary wildlife sanctuaries on Earth.

But this natural wonder faces immense challenges. Human-wildlife conflict, overgrazing from livestock, and the illegal wildlife trade threaten both biodiversity and local livelihoods. These challenges mirror the global struggle to balance conservation with community survival.

Global Conservation works directly with local authorities and residents to reduce wildlife conflicts and preserve this critical ecosystem. By supporting community-led initiatives, enhancing law enforcement, and fostering collaboration, Global Conservation seeks to secure Ngorongoro’s future for both wildlife and people.

Every contribution helps strengthen anti-poaching patrols, reduce conflict, and protect the unique wildlife of Ngorongoro. Together, we can preserve this heritage for future generations.

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