The 58,000-acre Ol Jogi Conservancy in Laikipia County, Kenya, is one of East Africa’s oldest rhino sanctuaries. Divided into two habitat areas connected by rhino-proof wildlife corridors, it is home to populations of eastern black rhinos (Diceros bicornis michaeli), southern white rhinos (Ceratotherium simum simum), and a wide range of other threatened species. The Conservancy works closely with three neighbouring sanctuaries under the Association of Private and Community Land Rhino Sanctuaries (APLRS), collaborating on monitoring, training, intelligence sharing, and ranger support. Maintaining such a vast and ecologically diverse landscape requires highly trained, trustworthy personnel, so ensuring rangers are well- equipped, motivated, and supported is vital.
Members of the organised crime networks responsible for trafficking rhino horn actively try to entrap staff at rhino reserves to provide insider information to enable their crimes. Providing them with fresh, comfortable, and durable workwear has been shown to boost morale, reinforce their sense of purpose, and help them perform their duties effectively.
High quality and durable footwear is one of the most critical parts of a ranger’s uniform. Without reliable boots, rangers cannot cover the vast distances required for effective monitoring, leaving both themselves and the wildlife at risk. Poor-quality footwear increases the likelihood of blisters, sprains, and other injuries, which can reduce patrol effectiveness and compromise the safety of the team as they navigate rocky, uneven, or marshy terrain. In the past, several suppliers were trialled, however many of these boots barely lasted a year under the demands of daily patrols. Altberg boots, by contrast, are built for endurance and protection: reinforced soles help navigate a variety of terrain, ankle support reduces the risk of injury, and water-resistant materials withstand harsh weather conditions. For the rangers, boots are an essential part of their gear, enabling them to operate across vast distances, and pursue threats without compromise. Unlike other brands, Altberg boots can last for up to four years, withstanding all of the daily tasks that the rangers must undertake, providing consistent, reliable support.
The durability of these boots is particularly important when put to the test during the rainy season in Kenya. Whilst the rains are a welcome relief for the Conservancy, providing much- needed respite for the flora and fauna following a prolonged dry spell, they also make patrols significantly more challenging. Ol Jogi received around 300 ml of rainfall in just two months last Spring which caused flooding transforming the usually dry land into a wet and marshy landscape. These bog-like conditions significantly slow movement and make walking through the terrain much more difficult. In these conditions, waterproof and sturdy footwear is essential for maintaining effective patrol coverage.
Prior to these rains, Ol Jogi faced a prolonged period of drought. These dry conditions had a serious impact on wildlife: fighting mortalities increased; older black rhinos struggled to compete with younger bulls for dwindling resources; and the young calves were at an elevated risk of predation by lions. In response, the rangers at Ol Jogi intensified patrols, monitored water sources and tracked vulnerable animals closely. In such harsh conditions, the comfort and durability of a ranger’s uniform is essential.
Despite threats posed at both extremes of nature, the Conservancy’s enhanced patrol efforts and reliable equipment have paid off. The day-to-day rhino monitoring efforts continue to go from strength to strength. With 25 rhino monitors deployed at any given time, the intensive coverage has resulted in an average sighting frequency of just 1.3 days for all rhinos. The combination of well-equipped rangers, durable footwear, and systematic monitoring has allowed the team to maintain close observation of Ol Jogi’s rhinos, ensuring that both the eastern black rhinos, and southern white rhinos are tracked and protected even in challenging environmental conditions.
Today, thanks to the tireless efforts of the rangers, monitors, and staff on the ground, Kenya is seeing the population of both eastern black rhinos and southern white rhinos steadily increase. The dedication of the Ol Jogi team has directly contributed to the protection and growth of these rhino populations. Save the Rhino International and Ol Jogi Conservancy wish to extend their deepest thanks to the Scott and Jessica McClintock Foundation for their generous contribution towards the purchase of these boots, without which these successes may not have been reached.