The current rhino poaching crisis in South Africa, has led to the establishment of the Black Mamba Anti Poaching Unit.

It was established in 2013 by Transfrontier Africa, with the aim of protecting rhinos and all wildlife.

It only started with 6 members and has grown to 36 rangers in total.

“We have chosen women for this unit, because females are the most responsible individuals in the community, they take care of their homes, raise kids and are caring beings,” said Head Warden Craig Spencer.

Since the formation of the unit, it has managed to wipe out snaring of other wildlife by 76% and has also made successful arrests, investigations and sentencing of poachers.

Last year they were named the Champions of the Earth in the United Nations Environmental Programme, they received the award in New York.

The award came as a result of 18 months without poaching of any animals in the reserve.

“I love my job, because I get to protect the wildlife and the environment,” said one of the rangers Nkateko Mzimba. The unit forms part of the partnership between Transfrontier Africa, South Africa National Parks (SANParks) and the Department of Environmental Affairs Extended Public Works Environmental Monitor Programme.

“Our mission is to make the Greater Kruger National Park area the most difficult, undesirable and risky area to poach in,” said Balule nature reserve head warden, Craig Spencer.

The Black Mambas also has an Environmental Educational Programme, in which they embark on community and school awareness campaigns, which teaches locals about the importance of anti poaching and protecting the environment.

Spencer urged South Africans to protect its wildlife, as other countries are doing with their indigenous animals.

For donations and more info visit: www. blackmambas.org

Watch the video: The Black Mamba Anti-Poaching Unit