Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife CEO Sihle Mkhize has praised field staff across all rhino reserves, including Hluhluwe iMfolozi Park (HiP), after the province recorded a marked reduction in rhino poaching incidents in recent months.

Support promised for rangers facing court appearances

Mkhize met with staff during an impromptu gathering this week, thanking them for their discipline, endurance, and consistent efforts in the face of continued poaching threats. He also reaffirmed Ezemvelo’s commitment to supporting rangers who face court appearances as a result of encounters with poachers, Northern Natal News reports.

“Ezemvelo will do everything in its power to ensure that every field ranger who must appear in court receives the support they need,” he said.

Polygraph testing strengthens internal security

He further commended rangers for taking part in the organisation’s newly introduced polygraph testing programme. The tests, now in force across all rhino reserves, aim to strengthen internal security. Individuals who showed signs of deception were removed from rhino-sensitive zones and will be given a second opportunity to undergo testing.

HiP teams thanked for bravery and dedication

Mkhize thanked all HiP field personnel for their bravery and dedication, noting their crucial role in protecting South Africa’s remaining rhino population. “Their work safeguards this iconic species for future generations,” he said.

Ezemvelo Data Analyst L Fynn presented an update on the organisation’s five-element Anti-Poaching Strategy, which includes a direct-engagement tactic informally known as ‘tea and coffee’. The approach involves the Anti-Poaching Unit visiting alleged poachers who have been granted bail, serving as a reminder that their movements remain under close watch and that Ezemvelo maintains a zero-tolerance position on wildlife crime.

Province sees major improvement in poaching figures

Only 86 rhinos have been poached in KwaZulu-Natal this year, a major improvement compared with 218 poached by November 2024.

Fynn added that under the current strategy, Ezemvelo has successfully destabilised four out of five known members of established poaching groups. A further five group leaders have now been identified and are under 24-hour surveillance as part of intensified efforts to dismantle poaching networks.

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