EZEMVELO KZN Wildlife’s St Lucia Anti-Poaching Unit (APU) is now able to operate even more efficiently, thanks to a generous donation from the Rotary Club of Empangeni.
A fund-raiser was held in May during which Zululanders spent an evening with former president Nelson Mandela’s personal archivist, Verne Harris.
The proceeds from this event were given to three beneficiaries, including the St Lucia APU, whose members requested specific equipment essential in their operations to curb poaching.
Rhino poaching aside, the team is tasked with protecting smaller animals subject to being killed for the ‘bush meat’ trade, smuggling of protected cycads, illegal poisoning of vultures for muthi and illegal gill netting.
Items requested included leather boots specifically made to enhance tracking skills. The boots were sourced in Tulbagh in the Cape and will allow the team many hours on foot in comfortable, protective boots.
The boots, with their specially designed soles, mean APU members will leave little trace of their footsteps, a vital tool in tracking suspected poachers.
The second item requested was LED Lenser headlamps, giving rangers the ability to work hands-free at night.
Kobi Ndwandwe, who has been with the St Lucia APU since its inception in 2002, spoke on behalf of the team about how the new equipment and accessories will allow rangers to perform their duties better under the difficult conditions they face day and night.
‘Rotary Club of Empangeni appreciates the generosity of the community at fund-raising events, which has allowed us to help Johan Gerber and his anti-poaching team in their difficult task,’ said Rotary Public Relations Officer, Rose Cyrus.
