Global campaign seeks justice for murdered ranger
The 2022 assassination of Anton Mzimba, a decorated head ranger and fearless defender of rhinos, has sent shockwaves through the conservation community. Now, a global campaign seeks justice for the man who gave his life protecting Africa’s iconic wildlife.
Mzimba, head of ranger services at the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve in Hoedpruit, dedicated over two decades to safeguarding South Africa’s wildlife.
On 26 July 2022 he was gunned down outside his home in a targeted assassination. His death is a tragic reminder of the escalating violence faced by frontline rangers battling organised poaching syndicates.
Led by the creators of the award-winning documentary Rhino Man, the campaign aims to raise funds to support investigators and offer a reward for information leading to the conviction of those responsible for his murder.
Rhino Man is an award-winning documentary that delves into the lives of rangers on the frontlines of South Africa’s war on rhino poaching. The film has received international acclaim, including endorsements from Prince William, Dr Jane Goodall, and the Game Rangers Association of Africa. It was a finalist at the Wildscreen Panda Awards and Jackson Wild Media Awards, often referred to as the “Oscars of conservation filmmaking”.
After more than two years, no arrests have been made in connection with Mzimba’s murder.
The Justice for Anton Mzimba campaign aims to:
- Fund a reward for information leading to the conviction of Anton’s killers;
- Support Focused Conservation, a US-based nonprofit assisting investigators in South Africa; and
- Raise awareness about the urgent need to protect rangers and combat wildlife crime in an effort to elevate the priority of Mzimba’s case.
“Anton Mzimba was more than a ranger; he was a hero who stood against poaching at great personal risk,” said John Jurko II, director of Rhino Man. “We cannot let his sacrifice go unanswered. This campaign is about honouring Anton’s legacy and ensuring those responsible are held accountable.”
Earlier this month, United for Wildlife held its global summit in Cape Town, where Prince William once again mentioned Anton Mzimba during his opening speech. His remarks brought renewed attention to Anton’s legacy and highlighted the need for justice. This mention was covered widely by media in the UK, South Africa, and beyond.
As part of the campaign, a premiere screening of Rhino Man took place in Cape Town on 7 November. This event brought together conservation leaders, law enforcement, and wildlife rangers to honour Anton’s legacy and inspire collective action.
In his closing remarks, director John Jurko II publicly announced the Justice for Anton Mzimba campaign.
“South African media, conservationists and the public are invited to support this critical cause. Together, we can ensure Anton Mzimba’s voice echoes far beyond his tragic loss and strikes a blow against those who profit from destruction,” he said.
To learn more about the campaign, visit justiceforanton.org.
