Rhino conservation project promotes adventure with a purpose

Visitors to Insimbi Legacy Projects’ stall at Mall of the North’s Game arcade on Saturday made a contribution towards a worthy cause and also took the opportunity to learn more about the conservation and protection of rhinos.
Representatives of the project, Shane and Claudia Naudé provided literature explaining the rhino conservation initiative that is operated on a farm in the Vivo area and appealed to passers-by to make donations towards the project.
Shane explained that the activities on the farm have been financed by its owner, Carmela Lattanzi for the last ten years.” Due to the merciless onslaught and high risk of poaching, we had to take a decision to either sell our rhino to possible rhino hunters or to continue the fight against poaching. We opted for the latter and the non-profit company was registered this year. We can, however, not do this on our own and therefore appeal for assistance from nature lovers,” Shane explained.
Shane said the rhino on the farm were not captive bred and also not kept in a small camp. We feed due to the drought and have a veterinarian on standby to care for their health. “They are wild and breeding naturally,” Shane added.
There are various donation options which include cash, fodder and its transportation and sponsorships for counter poaching operations, aerial surveillance and technology like drones and night vision devices.
Visitors are also welcome to visit the farm and take part in activities which include fence patrols, an observation lane and obstacle course, practical target shooting and rhino observation. Packages include accommodation and meals and according to Shane, it is most suitable for team building exercises.
Shane and Claudia may be contacted on 083 448 5820 or 073 346 1480.

Story and photo: BARRY VILJOEN
>>barryv.observer@gmail.com