Supporting since 2005
Location
Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park in South Africa
Support started
2005
Species
Black and White Rhinos
Mission
To uphold the security of the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park’s rhino populations by increasing the effectiveness of anti-poaching and monitoring activities, in order to ensure the continued and increased competence of field rangers in the reserve.
Donations:
To support rhino protection and conservation operations by funding vital repairs and equipment for law enforcement operations; providing essential support in the fight back against the rhino poaching surge.
2024 – 2025:
£6,900 donated this year.
Background
Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park (HiP) in South Africa is synonymous with rhino conservation and, despite the incredible dedication of all those involved in the protection of the park’s rhinos, many rhinos have been killed on HiP since the start of the rhino poaching crisis in 2008.
Park rangers are on the frontline in their role to ensure the integrity of conservation areas and the safety of rhinos within these landscapes. Law enforcement staff are constantly working to stop poaching gangs and the K9 unit are involved in reactions and deployments, following the tracks of suspects and even assisting in arrests.
In order for staff to perform successfully and efficiently, it is imperative that they are well equipped to perform any task that may be required. Over the years, donations have been put towards field equipment required by the field rangers to continue to protect and monitor the rhinos of the park. As poachers are highly organised, using sophisticated communication equipment, it is imperative that anti-poaching patrols are sufficiently equipped and capable of counteracting poaching efforts.
Achievements and Objectives
The success of rhino conservation in Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park is largely due to effective patrolling, which is carried out by field rangers based at picket camps throughout the reserve, supported by a more specialised anti-poaching unit.
Funds are always required to meet emergency needs for repairs and replacement of ranger equipment and vehicle parts. Funding for emergency repairs or replacement will enable the team to respond quickly when vital equipment becomes damaged. This can include unforeseen vehicle damage, repairs to boreholes, generators and water filters or replacement equipment like camera trap batteries, to ensure they can continue running.
The team continues to look into ways to step up rhino security due to the ever increasing threat of poaching, and arrest those responsible. Experience has shown that the best way to combat poaching is through direct anti-poaching work, coupled with sound neighbour relations and environmental education programmes.
