Every day should hold some reminder to the world that our wildlife is in danger, and that animals such as rhinos are dropping like flies in areas that are meant to protect them. Sadly, this is the reality due to the incomprehensible demand for rhino horn that is engulfing the Kruger Park’s population of rhino like a devastating tsunami. Just like a tsunami, the poaching situation in South Africa brings incredible danger to all that fall in its path. On World Rhino Day, we would like to acknowledge, admire, celebrate, and congratulate one team of individuals who throw themselves into the firing line of this war on rhinos, and are actively preventing the poaching of these endangered animals every single day.
The Black Mambas anti-poaching unit has been written about, interviewed, filmed, and photographed recently as their name grows famous in not only the field of conservation, but in the world as a whole. On the 27th of September, this hard-working team of wildlife protectors will receive a prestigious accolade from the United Nations for their work in anti-poaching: the Champions of the Earth award. It is with pride and admiration that we will watch the Black Mambas accept this award as recognition and reward for the impeccable manner in which they do their extremely demanding jobs all for the good of saving the rhino.
Based in the Balule Private Game Reserve and sponsored by Ezulwini Game Lodges, the Black Mambas are a team of women from the local community who work for 3 weeks at a time protecting the Balule from poacher activity. Dressed in full camo, these rangers take to the ground on foot and actively remove snares, inspect the fence line, bust poachers’ camps, and report any sign of suspicious activity to the authorities. Not one single rhino has been poached in the period of time that the Black Mambas have been patrolling their territory, and in addition, thousands of snares have been removed from the bush, poachers have been arrested, and their camps destroyed. Most importantly, the Black Mambas are an example to the community of the importance of local involvement in the fight against poaching. We salute you!
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