I will be swimming the 8 mile race to race fund for Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife. The funds raised will go towards saving the black and white rhinos!

During the past three years, KwaZulu Natal has experienced increasing poaching pressures, particularly at Hluhluwe iMfolozi Park. Since 2007 there has been an alarming increase in the number of rhinos poached on an annual basis. It is evident that this increasing trend is continuing despite current anti-poaching efforts implemented in the field.

The seriousness of this poaching crisis is emphasized by the decline in both the black & white rhino populations. A real risk exists regarding the survival of both the species of black & white rhino in KZN. This crisis is triggered by the continued demand for rhino horn, pressure stemming largely from users in Asian countries, whereby the use of rhino horn for medicinal purposes (amongst a variety of other activities) is most prevalent, in society of today.

In response to this current crisis, a number of security actions have been implemented. These include an increase of anti-poaching goods & services (communication system upgrade, helicopter operation, dog-unit operation, night-vision equipment etc.) in rhino reserves and continued liaison with private organizations & private rhino reserves. More recently there has been significant integration between conservation authorities and the South African Police Services operations resulting in an effective tactical response.