Support Mounted Rangers Fighting Rhino Poaching

Dear Friends and Supporters,

As we begin a new year, we’d like to extend our sincere gratitude for your ongoing support and generosity towards conservation. Here’s a brief update on what we’ve been working on recently:

1. Anti-poaching and Community Protection

Our anti-poaching units have been on high alert as the festive season is synonymous with increased criminal activity, there has also been an increase in dog poachers and snaring.  The K9-Unit continue to remove an average of 112 snares per month on patrol, whilst a typical aerial patrol by our BushCat fixed-wing will last between two to three hours, the majority over adjacent Private Game Reserves.

 2. Education and Awareness

Inspiring future generations and creating awareness remain pillars of our work:

• School Engagements: Richard, our dedicated Rhino Art facilitator, completed a successful trip to Kosi Bay in January. He has also hosted impactful educational sessions at schools near Loziba, Nambiti, and Tembe Wildlife Reserves.
• Global Awareness: Project Rhino director, Grant, represented us on an international stage during his recent USA trip, fostering global support for wildlife conservation.

 3. Cultural and Sporting Events

Our events continue to unite communities while raising awareness and funds:

• Future Rhino Project: In 2024, several schools across KwaZulu-Natal participated in the Future Rhino Project, hand-decorating life-size rhino wireframes. A crash of 14 of these beautifully decorated rhinos was displayed at the Festival of Lights in Durban in December. These stunning artworks, accompanied by heartfelt conservation messages from participating schools, are a testament to the passion of KwaZulu-Natal’s youth.
• Looking Ahead: We are thrilled to announce a music festival in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands on 1 February, featuring popular South African artists Nicholis Louw, Qadasi & Maqhinga, Tanner Wareham, and Steve Umculo. Upcoming initiatives in 2025 include an online art auction, a Run for Rangers trail run, and the Oceans 8 swimming event.

For further information, please follow our journey on social media (@projectrhinokzn), where you’ll find regular updates and stories of impact. Together, we are making a difference, one step at a time.