giving back - BHAPU

At Amani Safaris, conservation is at the heart of every journey we plan. We are proud to support the incredible work of the Bumi Hills Anti-Poaching Unit (BHAPU) – a grassroots initiative that began in 2009 with just four dedicated scouts protecting the Bumi concession. Founded by ProGuide Andy Dalzell and later championed by conservation leaders like Nick Milne and Mark Brightman, the unit has grown into a formidable force, especially with the establishment of the Bumi Hills Foundation in 2016. Between 2016 and 2021, BHAPU achieved remarkable milestones in safeguarding wildlife and habitats, thanks to unwavering partnerships, sponsors, and generous donations. When you book with Amani Safaris, you’re not just embarking on an unforgettable adventure – you’re directly contributing to these vital efforts, with a percentage of every booking helping to protect Zimbabwe’s precious wildlife.

From Small Beginnings

BHAPU started in 2009 with just 4 scouts and now protects over 1,000 square kilometres of wilderness around Lake Kariba.

Wildlife Comeback

Their tireless patrols have helped reduce poaching dramatically, leading to visible increases in elephant and other key wildlife populations.

24/7 Protection

Scouts work day and night, using foot patrols, boats, and aerial support to safeguard the region’s wildlife.

giving back - VFAPU

The Victoria Falls Anti-Poaching Unit (VFAPU) is a non-profit organization dedicated to the protection and preservation of local wildlife and natural resources in and around Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. Nestled within one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, Victoria Falls is surrounded by vast protected areas, home to diverse flora and fauna. Yet, this fragile ecosystem faces mounting human–wildlife conflict, habitat pressure, and threats from both subsistence and commercial poaching.

To address these challenges, Charles Brightman, a local safari operator, conservationist – and my uncle – co-founded VFAPU in 1999 alongside the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge. From humble beginnings with just three scouts, the unit has grown to 17 full-time scouts who patrol roughly 50 square kilometres around Victoria Falls. Operating day and night, in collaboration with Zimbabwe’s National Parks and Wildlife Management Authority and the Zimbabwe Republic Police, VFAPU continues to make a measurable difference in safeguarding the area’s wildlife.

Active Anti-Poaching Patrols

VFAPU scouts work seven days a week to remove snares, deter illegal hunting, and combat poaching across a core conservation zone.

Wildlife Rescue & Rehabilitation

The unit rescues animals injured by snares or human interference and rehabilitates them for release back into the wild.

Community Empowerment & Education

By training ex-poachers in new skills and engaging schools and local communities, VFAPU creates sustainable alternatives that reduce reliance on poaching.

giving back - Wild hope

Introducing Wild Hope, a grassroots organisation founded by my cousin, Hannah Brightman.

Hannah’s heart for children and education inspired her to create Wild Hope in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe - a place renowned for its natural beauty, yet one where many children face hidden struggles. With limited safe spaces and few opportunities, their futures often feel uncertain. Hannah’s vision is to change that by offering belonging, confidence, and skills that open new possibilities.

At Wild Hope, children ages 5–18 come together weekly to learn, play, and imagine brighter futures. The program nurtures not only their minds but also their sense of identity and hope—through mental health support, English and literacy, conservation awareness, and practical life skills. What began as Hannah’s dream to help just two children has now grown into a thriving community of 20, with plans for an even greater impact.

Started small, growing strong

From just two children in 2025, Wild Hope now supports 20+ young people each week.

Unique approach

Lessons blend education with mental health, conservation, and entrepreneurship, preparing children for both life and livelihood.

Future vision

By 2027, Wild Hope aims to create a permanent safe space in Victoria Falls where children can belong, learn, and thrive for generations to come

Travel with Purpose

A percentage of every Amani Safaris booking goes directly to supporting conservation & community efforts, meaning your safari helps protect Zimbabwe’s wildlife & communities in real time. If you would like to make a donation to BHAPU, VFAPU or WILD HOPE, please do so using our donation channel below.