By C. J. De Mel, Jadetimes News
Discover the latest updates on the poaching of South African rhinos. Learn about the challenges faced and the efforts being made to protect these endangered animals.
South Africa's efforts to curb rhino poaching have faced setbacks, with the number of rhinos killed rising significantly in 2023. Environment Minister Barbara Creecy reported that 499 rhinos were poached last year, a sharp increase of 51 from the previous year.
Statistics and Conservation Status
South Africa harbors the majority of the world's rhino population, including around 2,000 critically endangered black rhinos and approximately 13,000 near threatened white rhinos. While poaching rates have declined since a peak in 2014, recent years have seen a resurgence.
Demand in Asia
The high demand for rhino horns in Asian countries, particularly China and Vietnam, where they are valued for traditional medicine, continues to drive poaching activities.
Poaching Hotspots
Hluhluwe iMfolozi Park in KwaZulu Natal province has become the new epicenter of poaching, with the majority of killings occurring there last year. Conversely, the Kruger National Park, previously a major target for poachers, saw a significant reduction of over one third in 2023. Minister Creecy attributed this success to effective anti poaching measures, which have displaced criminal activities to other regions.
Government and Park Efforts
The government has allocated $2.1 million to enhance fencing in Hluhluwe iMfolozi Park. Additionally, several measures have been implemented to combat poaching, including hiring additional patrollers and deploying a new surveillance helicopter. Musa Mntambo, a spokesperson for the park's managing company, expressed concern over the poaching increase but noted a decline so far this year, with 22 rhinos poached compared to 30 by the same time last year.
Dehorning and Anti Corruption Measures
Minister Creecy highlighted the extensive dehorning program undertaken to deter poachers. The government has also launched an anti corruption initiative aimed at preventing park officials from collaborating with poaching gangs.
Calls for Improved Intelligence
Jamie Joseph, head of the environmental group Saving the Wild, has criticized the government's anti poaching strategies, stressing the need for better intelligence gathering. She argued that effective intelligence, ambushes, and arrests are crucial to making a significant impact on poaching rates.
Law Enforcement Successes
Despite the challenges, Minister Creecy commended the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation for its achievements, including the conviction of 45 rhino poachers and traffickers last year.
In summary, while South Africa has made strides in certain areas of rhino poaching prevention, the overall increase in poaching incidents underscores the need for ongoing and enhanced efforts to protect these endangered animals.