Project Rhino was launched on World Rhino Day, 22 September 2011. It is a rhino-focussed association that brings together a provincial government conservation body, private and community-owned reserves, rhino owners, leading conservation NGOs and anti-poaching security specialists in the common aim of fighting wildlife crime.
Project Rhino's Four Pillars of Support
The Project Rhino platform ensures that efforts to protect white and black rhino populations are coherent and avoids duplication of work. It collaborates with anti-poaching and wildlife economy initiatives throughout southern Africa to share strategies and best practices. Project Rhino follows a four-pronged approach:
Co-ordination Unit
The team that keeps the engines running by mobilising stakeholders; gathering and synthesising anti-poaching intelligence; prioritising needs; and sourcing funds and donations. Without effective coordination, we would see a disjointed and dysfunctional response to wildlife crime, resulting in higher poaching numbers.
Ranger and Technical Support
Direct training equipment support to rangers, anti-poaching technologies, dehorning interventions, equipping and supporting the K9 and Equine units, and the ZAP-Wing aerial surveillance unit, including the lease and support costs of the airfield at Hluhluwe, northern KZN.
Wildlife Youth & Leadership Development (WYLD)
Interaction and education of youth and wildlife communities through Rhino (Wild) Art, Youth Camps, Leadership Forums, World Youth Wildlife Summit and others. Helping to build our current and future conservation champions through supportive platforms.
Conservation Economy and Enterprise
Supporting livelihoods by building a network of responsible use landscapes that provide opportunities for local job creation and small business development, including permaculture food gardens.
Make a Difference
Support the work of Project Rhino and help protect rhinos, wildlife and the people who stand on the front line of conservation.