Photo Credit: WILDLANDS via Facebook

In a crucial step towards safeguarding one of Africa’s most endangered species, the Somkhanda Community Game Reserve, together with its partners, recently continued its vital rhino dehorning operation this past weekend.

 

KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa  (22 May 2025) – Thanks to the tireless dedication of a passionate team of conservationists, rhinos at the Somkhanda Community Game Reserve will soon roam more safely, free from the relentless threat of poachers.

On Saturday, 17 May, members of and representatives from WILDLIFE ACT and The Protected Area Management Company came together to continue the rhino dehorning intervention, which is part of a broader effort to protect Somkhanda’s rhino population.

Dehorning has proven to be an effective deterrent, especially on smaller reserves like Somkhanda, where the entire population can be safely dehorned every one to two years, WILDLANDS assures.

The initiative was launched last year at the community-owned sanctuary to address the escalating poaching crisis.

The Communications Manager from WILDLANDS, Noluthando Mbata, was also on the ground to witness this effort, which served as a personal reminder of the lengths wildlife conservationists go to protect one of Africa’s most iconic and endangered species.

“Standing beside these iconic species as they were carefully dehorned was incredibly moving. It reminded me that every precaution we take today gives them a better chance to roam free tomorrow,” Noluthando commented.

This rhino experience, which greatly helps transform the landscape of conservation, would not be possible without strong partnerships and the support of conservation allies.

The weekend was also made possible through the ongoing support from Highbury Preparatory School’s annual Maputaland Challenge, which raises funds for their adopted black and white rhino at Somkhanda, Tai and Baleka.

“Together, we continue working towards a thriving and resilient world where endangered species like rhinos are given the chance to survive and thrive,” WILDLANDS said.


Sources: WILDLANDS
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