Toyota gifts a Hilux to fight rhino poaching

IN AN effort to lend a hand toward the fight against rhino poaching in South Africa, Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) has donated a brand new Toyota Hilux 2.4GD-6 SRX double-cab 4x4 to the South African National Parks (SANParks).

The vehicle was accepted by SANParks CFO Dumisane Dlamini last week at the organisation’s head office in Pretoria.

The Hilux will assist SANParks with the transportation of the Meerkat, which is a wide-area surveillance system than can comb the bush for potential poachers.

The system comprises a suite of radar and electro-optic sensors that are capable of detecting human movement, which is an important feature when it comes to anti-poaching measures in the Kruger National Park.

Speaking at the official handover ceremony, Dlamini said the vehicle donated by TSAM will enable SANParks to provide real-time intelligence information to field reaction forces: “Toyota’s involvement through this donation signifies a constructive approach in the fight against wildlife crime and is much appreciated.”

In December last year, Toyota donated four Toyota Avanza models that the Kruger National Park is currently using for law enforcement and promoting staff visibility in the park.

Senior Vice President of TSAM Calvyn Hamman says: “Toyota South Africa is committed to social upliftment and environmental initiatives. Protecting our wildlife heritage is close to our heart and the plight of rhino, as well as other endangered species, is a matter that requires our attention. This is why we are committed to supporting SANParks.”