our work
Strategic Conservation. Real-World Impact.
At The Metapopulation Initiative (TMI), we work across borders and ecosystems to ensure the long-term survival of endangered carnivores—most notably the cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus). Our projects are grounded in science, built on collaboration, and designed to connect fragmented populations through coordinated translocations and active metapopulation management.
We focus on areas where natural movement is no longer possible, stepping in to move individuals between reserves, protect genetic diversity, and reintroduce cheetahs into landscapes where they once roamed.
We stand on the shoulders of giants. TMI is proud to collaborate with conservation partners, including the Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT), Ashia, national governments, private reserves, and international NGOs. Together, we share one mission: ensuring Africa’s carnivores remain part of our future.
our core project streams
Cheetah Metapopulation Management
This ongoing initiative spans over 76 reserves across southern Africa and Asia. We coordinate the translocation of wild cheetahs between fenced reserves to prevent inbreeding, balance population densities, and ensure long-term species resilience. This is the backbone of our conservation model.
Reintroduction & Restoration
We work with partners to reintroduce cheetahs into suitable, historically occupied areas across Africa. These projects contribute not only to species recovery but also to restoring ecosystem function and unlocking ecotourism potential for local communities.
Credit: Wiki West
south africa
South Africa’s cheetah metapopulation reserves have played a critical role in the recovery and long-term viability of wild cheetah populations across Southern Africa and even contributed to global efforts, including the species’ return to India.
Through the Cheetah Metapopulation Project, over 70 fenced reserves across South Africa are managed as a single, coordinated population.
Cheetahs from South African metapopulation reserves have been used to reintroduce the species into parts of its historical range, including Mozambique, Malawi, and Zambia. These individuals help restore ecological function in areas where cheetahs were previously extinct.
This effort was only possible due to:
- A stable, surplus cheetah population in managed reserves.
- Proven success in translocation and post-release monitoring, and
- Decades of collaborative conservation practice within the metapopulation model
international collaborations
mozambique
The Panyame Cheetah Project
In partnership with Blood Origins, we are rewilding cheetahs in the 210,000-hectare Panyame Conservancy. What began with the sighting of a single male cheetah has evolved into a large-scale restoration effort, with 16 cheetahs already translocated and thriving in one of the region’s largest unfenced wilderness areas.
mozambique
Zambezi Delta
To help secure the future of wild cheetahs in the 900 000 hectares open conservation landscape of Zambezi Delta, we are supplementing the existing population with carefully selected individuals from South Africa. This strategy boosts genetic diversity, reduces the risk of inbreeding, and strengthens the population’s ability to survive and thrive in the wild.
Credit: Wiki West
india
Project cheetah
In a landmark international effort, TMI supported the South African government in sourcing cheetahs for India’s Project Cheetah.
The project aims to reintroduce cheetahs to India after their extinction in 1952, restoring ecological balance and expanding the species’ global range.
- Kuno National Park: 20 cheetahs introduced since 2022
- Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary: 2 cheetahs reintroduced in 2025
zambia
LoleLunga Game Ranching & Safaris
In a historic first for Zambia, five cheetahs were reintroduced to the 30,000-hectare LoleLunga Game Ranch in 2024—thanks to a donation from Dinokeng and Kuzuko Game Reserves.
This groundbreaking relocation marks the country’s first successful cheetah reintroduction into a fenced reserve, paving the way for the recovery of Africa’s most endangered big cat in Zambia.
Why It Matters
Fragmented habitats and isolated populations leave species vulnerable to inbreeding, disease, and local extinction. Through our projects, we’re creating a network of connected, genetically healthy wildlife populations—giving endangered species a real chance at long-term survival.
join us
Whether you’re a conservation partner, donor, landowner, or wildlife enthusiast—your support drives our impact.
Let’s keep wild populations connected, thriving, and free.
Leave Your Mark
Shape a future where cheetahs run wild and ecosystems breathe again.
Because a true legacy isn’t what you leave behind—it’s what you keep alive.