Rhino Protection Boosted with New Equipment

The Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency (MTPA) has received rhino anti-poaching equipment valued at over R500,000, strengthening ongoing efforts to protect wildlife in the province’s reserves.

The equipment, funded through the Global Environment Facility (GEF7), was provided by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) in partnership with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI).

This latest donation builds on existing support from WeWild Africa, which has been assisting the Anti-Poaching Unit and field rangers for the past two years with vehicles and essential equipment.

The newly acquired resources are aimed at reinforcing anti-poaching operations at Loskop Dam Nature Reserve, a key conservation area in Mpumalanga. Authorities believe the enhanced capacity will improve the protection of rhinos and other wildlife, helping to safeguard the province’s natural heritage.

The official handover was made to the interim chairperson of the MTPA Board, Mr Fish Mahlalela, alongside the agency’s management team led by Acting Chief Executive Officer Mr Lemmy Mdluli, and Executive Manager for Biodiversity Conservation Ms Nomcebo Kunene.

MTPA welcomed the donation, emphasising the importance of strong partnerships in conservation. The agency noted that collaboration between government, environmental organisations and private stakeholders remains vital in combating poaching and preserving biodiversity.