20-year minimum

aries of the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Reserve.

Shapiro said the location had been chosen because of the rampant poaching of rhinos, which is also making headlines overseas.

“Prince Harry and Prince William are both passionate about conservation and are often in Africa, so poaching is very much being reported on in the media,” she said.

Describing the documentary as an “inspirational story about women’s journeys to find their authentic selves and elevate themselves beyond life’s trials and tribulations to a place where they can become what their souls desire and a beacon of light in their communities”, Shapiro said her inspiration came from Dr Ian Player, whom she had met while working for the SA Tourism Board in London in 2005.

Player, who saved the white rhino population from being wiped out in the 1960s, and his close friend, Magqubu Ntombela, founded the Wilderness Leadership School and Wilderness guide Lihle Mbokazi will lead a team of mentors to initiate the five women into the iMfolozi wilderness.

The slaughter of the rhinos will form part of the expericnce, as well as a visit to elders.

“It is a highly timely story in the light of growing disconnection between man and nature, the deteriorating state of the planet, the widespread exploitation of people and nature and the loss of respect to indigenous people, their culture and wisdom,” she said.

After the nine rhinos were discovered, a visit was made by the KZN Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs Portfolio Committee. The DA spokesperson on the committee, Ann McDonnell, said the visit revealed “an alarming state of affairs, including the existence of about 40 vacant ranger posts”, as well as risky budget cuts.

“A visit to the park’s killing fields showed just how far apart the different sites of the massacres are, highlighting how vulnerable this 160km2 park is. The sight of mutilated carcasses scattered through the bush was horrific,” said McDonnell.

On Monday, Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife spokesperson Musa Mntambo confirmed two suspected poachers had been arrested last weekend.