Tajikistan’s lone female ranger earns global recognition
Safarbi Davlatova, who has protected Dashtijum reserve for 15 years, receives international award and hopes to inspire women to join forestry
DUSHANBE, Tajikistan (MNTV) — The only female forest ranger in Tajikistan has been honored with an international conservation award after more than a decade of protecting one of the country’s most important natural reserves.
Safarbi Davlatova, 52, has spent the past 15 years safeguarding the Dashtijum reserve in Khatlon province, where she works as a conservation inspector monitoring wildlife and preventing poaching.
The reserve is home to hundreds of species, including more than 1,500 mountain goats, as well as bears, wild boar and rare plant life.
In 2024, Davlatova received the International Ranger Award at the World Conservation Congress in Abu Dhabi, recognizing her contributions to environmental protection and gender inclusion in a traditionally male-dominated field.
Davlatova said she entered forestry unexpectedly after being widowed at 23 and needing to support her family in a rural village. Initially working in agriculture, she was later encouraged by her family to take on the role of a ranger.
She recalled being the only woman among 42 colleagues when she began, facing both the challenges of the wilderness and the demands of working in a male-dominated environment.
Over time, she said, she adapted to the job, patrolling the reserve on horseback, identifying damaged trees, protecting wildlife and supporting conservation efforts year-round.
Davlatova said her work has also involved raising awareness among local communities, helping reduce conflicts between residents and wildlife, particularly in cases where animals such as bears threaten livestock.
Despite the hardships — including earlier years without proper equipment and harsh winter conditions — she said the job has become easier with improved resources.
She described a deep personal connection to nature, saying time in the forest is essential to her well-being.
Looking ahead, Davlatova said she hopes to inspire more women to enter the field and pass on her experience to a new generation. You have to believe in yourself and stay true to your work,” she said.
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