This project will enable the rescue and protection of wildlife in peril in South Africa. The illegal killing of wildlife for the bush meat and black market trade is a growing problem and it robs local communities of their rich biodiversity and natural heritage.

Challenge

Since the Covid-19 pandemic hit, illegal trade in bush meat and the harvesting of protected species for the illegal trade in animal parts has escalated rapidly. Initially this was due to less rangers on the ground during lockdown, but it is also due to rising unemployment. The use of wire and cable snares to poach wildlife is one of our biggest problems we face, snares are unselective and very efficient at killing animals and the survivors walk around with gaping wounds and the snares attached.

Long-Term Impact

The removal of illegal traps set for wildlife and deterring of poaching activities in and around nature reserves and wildlife corridors will greatly increase the biodiversity and stability of the eco system, this will ensure the growth of eco-tourism in these areas which will in turn have a positive effect on employment of local communities and the possibility of sustainable utilization of natural resources. The protection and conservation of our local biodiversity is of paramount importance.

References

1. https://www.facebook.com/PhalaHeritage/
2. https://letabaherald.co.za/94602/hippo-rescued-from-sewerage/
3. https://farnorthbulletin.co.za/2020/11/09/feel-good-news-jewellery-from-snares/
4. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UbhOxk8-hVk

Additional Documentation

https://www.globalgiving.org//pfil/52578/projdoc.pdf

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