87th Anniversary of Upemba National Park: Message from the Director and Site Manager

Communication
May 15
2 min read

Today, Upemba National Park marks 87 years of existence. This anniversary comes at a particularly emotional and symbolic moment in the history of the park. Recent events have deeply affected our teams, our operations, and the families who dedicate their lives to protecting this extraordinary landscape. Yet despite the pain and the challenges, Upemba remains standing; resilient, alive, and full of promise.

Every day, our teams continue to work under difficult conditions to protect wildlife, secure the park’s ecosystems, support surrounding communities, and preserve one of Africa’s most exceptional protected areas. Their courage, professionalism, and commitment deserve the highest recognition.

Over recent years, important progress has been achieved across many areas of park management. We have witnessed the gradual stabilization of biodiversity, strengthened conservation operations, increased scientific and technical capacity, improved collaboration with communities, and renewed national and international attention toward Upemba’s importance. These advances remind us that conservation is not only about protecting nature; it is also about perseverance, vision, and hope.

As we commemorate 87 years of Upemba National Park, we choose to look forward with determination. We believe in a future where Upemba becomes stronger, safer, and more impactful than ever before; a future where conservation contributes directly to stability, opportunity, and pride for the region and the nation.

To our staff, rangers, communities, partners, supporters, and friends of Upemba around the world: thank you for standing with us during difficult times and for continuing to believe in this park and its mission.

The story of Upemba is far from over. Its future is still being written, and we remain committed to ensuring that it is a future of resilience, recovery, and hope.

Christine Lain

Director and Site Manager

Upemba National Park