Dear supporters and friends,
We are experiencing an exceptionally hot summer in Germany. Meadows and fields have dried up, and the Rhine has reached historic record lows at several monitoring stations. The ongoing heat and drought are taking a toll on people, animals, and agriculture alike. What was long considered an exception is increasingly becoming a challenge we will have to live with in the future.
Water is one of the major issues of our time—a precious resource without which life would not be possible. That is why, in this year’s Junior Ranger Program, we are dedicating all environmental sessions to the project theme “Water & Conservation.”
In May, our Junior Rangers had the special opportunity to participate in an exciting session organized by the Wild Bird Trust in Maun. The Wild Bird Trust is implementing the National Geographic Okavango Wilderness Project (NGOWP) there and is committed to research, nature conservation, and the sustainable development of the entire region.
Local water expert Dr. Goabaone Jackie Ramatlapeng impressively demonstrated to the children how closely the protection of water resources, biodiversity, and people’s lives are interconnected. The Junior Rangers learned firsthand why a shared commitment to our environment is so important.
The focus is on the Okavango Delta—one of the world’s largest inland deltas and a unique wetland in northern Botswana. It is home to elephants, hippos, crocodiles, lions, leopards, cheetahs, wild dogs, and hundreds of bird species, and is considered one of Africa’s most important wilderness areas. The Okavango Delta has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2014.
Nevertheless, this extraordinary ecosystem is threatened by pollution and the effects of climate change.
Our Junior Rangers learn why protecting this unique landscape is so important—and how each individual can take responsibility for nature and water. In this way, young people grow up to actively advocate for the preservation of their environment.
Support our educational work!
As a small nonprofit foundation, we fund our projects almost exclusively through private donations.
Your support directly benefits the Junior Rangers in Maun, who participate in our environmental program with great enthusiasm and dedication.
With just 100 euros, you can make a full project week on the topic of “water” possible for 50 children.
Of course, we’ll be happy to issue you a donation receipt for tax purposes.
You can donate here: www.knyphausen-stiftung.org
or by bank transfer:
Knyphausen Foundation
Deutsche Bank
IBAN: DE02 3707 0024 0552 0002 00
BIC: DEUTDEDBKOE
Thank you very much for your support! Together, we can impart valuable knowledge to children and young people, inspire them to protect their environment, and open up prospects for a sustainable future.
We wish you a wonderful summer filled with many refreshing moments!
Best regards from Maun, Botswana,
Theda Countess Knyphausen