|
South Africa is home to the majority of the world's rhinoceros populations, particularly the White and Black Rhinoceros. Unfortunately, this makes the Waterberg region a prime target for poaching, driven by the high demand for rhino horn in the Asian market, where it is used in traditional medicine.In the first six months of 2024 alone, 229 rhinos were poached in South Africa. Of these, 191 were killed on state properties, while 38 were taken from privately owned parks, reserves, and farms. This alarming statistic underscores the critical role that privately owned land plays in the protection of these endangered species.
Among these private lands, Welgevonden Game Reserve (37,000 hectares; coordinates 24 16.499°S, 28 03.149°E) and Lapalala Wilderness Nature Reserve (48,000 hectares; coordinates 23.8422°S 28.3663°E) stand out as safe havens for rhinos. These reserves have opted not to dehorn their rhinos, a decision that emphasizes their commitment to preserving the species in its natural state. Both reserves are located within the UNESCO Waterberg Biosphere Reserve and are dedicated to balancing economic, social, and environmental imperatives for the benefit of their members, neighbouring communities, and other key stakeholders.
This project's primary goal is to ensure endangered species' survival through environmental conservation and education. E"ective funding of these key actions not only provides protection within the reserves, but also extends the influence and impact of conservation e"orts beyond their boundaries.
With many of the larger rhino populations in South Africa and Namibia now dehorned, poachers are likely to shift their focus to smaller, privately-owned properties, which often have limited resources. Welgevonden and Lapalala Wilderness are situated within the Waterberg Intensive Wildlife Zone (WIWZ), a government initiative by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and Environment (DFFE) in partnership with the Peace Parks Foundation (PPF).
The project's success will be guided by the following sustainability principles:
1. Knowledge-sharing:
Through programs like Welgevonden Environmental Awareness Programme and Lapalala Wilderness School, the project will disseminate critical knowledge about conservation.
2. Engaging Local Stewards:
By involving rangers and local community members, the project will ensure local buy-in and support for conservation e"orts.
3. Institutionalization: Seed funding and training certifications will be used to create lasting institutional frameworks for conservation.
4. Financial Sustainability:
The project will seek external support and engage in ongoing fundraising activities through ecotourism, funding applications, and private donations. Conservation gate levies are charged at Lapalala Wilderness for overnight guests and custodians/lodges with property on the reserves
| 
