Emergency Grant: Supporting Wildlife Conservation in Zimbabwe
The AVM Foundation is proud to announce our latest emergency grant to the Turgwe Hippo Trust in Zimbabwe. This marks our first charitable endeavour in the country, expanding our global impact in wildlife conservation.
About Turgwe Hippo Trust
Founded in 1992 by Karen Paolillo, the Turgwe Hippo Trust has been at the forefront of hippo conservation in Zimbabwe's south east lowveld for over three decades. The trust's journey began during a severe drought that threatened the last remaining hippos in the Turgwe River.
Karen's commitment to wildlife conservation is truly inspiring. In the trust's early days, she single-handedly raised funds and trucked in food to save 13 hippos from starvation. Her efforts not only saved these magnificent creatures but also led to two pregnancies within the group, ensuring the continuation of the local hippo population.
This year marks the sixth time in 33 years that the trust has had to implement emergency feeding measures. Since April, Karen has been providing food for:
- 20 hippos
- Over 80 other wild animals, including:
- Elephants
- Wildebeest
- Zebras
- Elands
- Waterbucks
- Warthogs
- Bush pigs
- Buffalos
- Porcupines
- Bushbucks
The feeding program is expected to continue until mid-December, assuming the rains arrive as hoped in mid-November.
How You Can Help
The Turgwe Hippo Trust is in urgent need of support to continue their vital work. By contributing to their cause, you can help ensure the survival of these incredible animals and support biodiversity in Zimbabwe.