Wildlands in drive to save rhino
Raising funds to enable dehorning and collaring of animals at community reserve
A WILDLIFE experience that has become a key driver in a fundraising campaign enabling the dehorning and collaring of black and white rhino on Somkhanda Community Game Reserve for the past three years was hosted in northern KwaZulu-Natal.
Wildlands hosted Comrades Marathon Association general manager Keletso Totlhanyo, Wildlands fundraiser Justine Rae, and 8 Mile Club founder Stan Kozlowski.
Collectively, the Comrades runners and the 8 Mile Club swimmers raised just over R600 000 for the Wildlands rhino conservation projects.
At the weekend, three rhinos were dehorned, and the group spotted buffalo, the Somkhanda lion pride, vultures, kudu, impala and inyala.
“It was awesome to see how the experienced conservation team efficiently and professionally go about their business in helping to make Somkhanda a reserve of choice to visit, that will be accessible to everyone as well as assisting communities and wildlife to survive side by side.
“The 8 Mile Club is proud to be associated with Wildlands and support the fitting of tracking devices on rhino, elephant, lion and other animals as well as the dehorning of the rhino,” Kozlowski said.
Rae said she was overwhelmed with emotion by the event.
“I will forever be changed. The work being done is just incredible. Wildlands is an inspirational charity to support. Thank you for all you do and for making me part of it,” Rae said.
Totlhanyo said: “The weekend was filled with entertainment, education and information. We were informed about the dangers of plastic to wildlife.
“This resonated with me, as the Comrades is exploring alternatives to plastic sachets to reduce our footprint during the race. We will continue to engage with Wildlands, the runners and sponsors to try to find a solution.”
To support the Somkhanda Community Game Reserve, visit http:// wildtrust.co.za/somkhanda/