INSIGHT is an online platform built to facilitate knowledge sharing between people and organisations working to combat wildlife crime. Previously known as the ‘iSivivane Anti-Poaching Toolbox’, it has recently been re-designed and re-launched as INSIGHT, a secure website with protected access for verified persons dedicated to operating as effectively as possible in this field.
Wildlife crime involves any illegal activities related to wild animals, plants, or their derivatives, such as poaching, trafficking, and illegal trade and is a global crisis that continues to devastate ecosystems, and endanger species and local economies. The need for coordinated, international efforts to address wildlife crime is more critical than ever, and INSIGHT aims to be a central knowledge-sharing hub for this crucial cause.
INSIGHT’s mission is to cultivate a secure, inclusive, online space where individuals and organisations worldwide can come together to share experiences, technology, case studies and best practices. The platform features members from across the globe, together contributing a diverse range of backgrounds and expertise in the fight against wildlife crime.
Dr Cleo Graf, Project Manager, the Southern African Wildlife College
The newly relaunched platform offers enhanced features to its community. INSIGHT’s members have access to each other’s product reviews and resources, and can contribute to the system by adding their own opinions, experiences, and case studies. Additionally, the platform allows for active engagement with peers through a dedicated space to comment or pose questions to other members. This will also initiate discussions with other field experts to explore potential solutions and collaborate on new developments, fostering a more effective and coordinated global approach to combating wildlife crime.
From wanting to know what the optimum tried and tested communications systems in parks without cell phone coverage, and the best camera trap systems to report real time sightings, to needing to look for the latest counter poaching methodology or standard operating procedures for use in your park, the website can assist.
To ensure the integrity and security of shared information, access to INSIGHT remains exclusive to approved members. Those interested in joining the Insight community are required to complete a brief registration form on the platform for approval.
INSIGHT was started in July 2021 and has 120 subscribers, with close to 300 reviews on different products, equipment, technology, standard operating procedures, and case studies. This content comes from people who work in the field of combating wildlife crime and who actually use these items.
The website is a Peace Parks Foundation initiative and has been contracted to the Southern African Wildlife College (SAWC) for implementation. The website was previously funded by United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and is currently funded by the United States Department: Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) as part of the South African Wildlife Zones Project, an initiative together with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment (DFFE) to provide a collaborative approach to combating rhino poaching in private and state-owned parks.
As INSIGHT prepares for its next chapter, all individuals and organisations involved in, or supporting, the fight against wildlife crime, are encouraged to join this dedicated community. Together, we can make a difference in global efforts to protect our planet’s precious natural resources.
For more information about INSIGHT and the relaunch, please visit www.insightcwc.com, or sign up for the newsletter to receive further updates and information.
