The Kruger National Park (KNP) Ranger Corps received certificates for tactical casualty care training and first aid equipment to the value of R166 600 on June 5, as part of the ‘ground mobility’ capacity and support in the anti-poaching operations inside the park.
Funding for the training and equipment was made possible by the Conservation Risk Initiative (CRI) and Noctuam Poaching Prevention Academy through facilitation by the Mdluli Safari Lodge, a private concession located in the Pretoriuskop section of the park.
Donated equipment included backpacks, boots, hydration bags, compasses, handcuffs and torches, which will all be used during patrols and other vital anti-poaching work in the KNP.
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“What a rewarding gesture for our rangers to have received training and equipment from Noctuam and CRI as we mark World Environment Day this month. The safety of rangers remains a priority, therefore, the training and equipment received will considerably enhance the effectiveness of the team as they need tools to survive out there during operations, day and night,” said the KNP managing executive, Oscar Mthimkhulu.
As part of their community public-private partnership initiative, the Mdluli Safari Lodge management initially linked KNP management with CRI and Noctuam Training Academy in 2019, with the aim of facilitating projects towards the anti-poaching efforts. They donated the first batch of ranger equipment that year.
“We appreciate this relationship which culminated in further donations and look forward to more collaborations. This serves as great motivation for our rangers in ensuring they minimise possible injuries or risks by being equipped with bush survival skills,” concluded Mthimkhulu.