Protected Area Expansion Project

Dear GlobalGiving Family,

We are continuing our efforts to rehabilitate and incorporate the newly secured 500 hectares of wilderness, including the Diedricks property, into Manyoni Private Game Reserve. This expansion is a critical step in increasing protected habitat for endangered species, but significant work remains to fully integrate this land into the reserve.

Rehabilitation and Infrastructure Development

Over the past months, we have made great strides in alien plant clearing, encroaching species removal, brush clearing, roadworks, and fencing—all essential to restoring this land and ensuring it is suitable for wildlife. Clearing alien vegetation helps improve biodiversity and enhances the ecosystem's ability to support species like black rhinos, wild dogs, and cheetahs. Additionally, securing the fence line is crucial for integrating the land into the reserve and ensuring safe movement for wildlife. These efforts not only benefit conservation but also provide employment opportunities for local community members involved in the clearing operations.

The Yankees: Protecting Our Conservation Areas

In the second half of 2024, thanks to a massive fundraising effort at one of our events, we successfully implemented the Female Rhino Rangers Programme, also known as the Yankees, under the Fence Guardianship Project. This all-women team, recruited from local communities, is dedicated to monitoring and protecting the reserve’s perimeter fence, preventing fence theft, and reducing human-wildlife conflict. Their work plays a crucial role in safeguarding the rhino population and ensuring community engagement in conservation efforts.

The Yankees have already proven incredibly effective in identifying and responding to security threats. Their presence has significantly strengthened our anti-poaching measures, but we urgently need ongoing funding to keep this highly effective team operational. Keeping the Yankees well-trained, equipped, and on the ground will ensure the long-term protection of the reserve and its wildlife.

The Urgency of Continued Funding

The work required to fully rehabilitate and secure this new conservation land is a long-term commitment. The challenges of alien clearing, fencing, road maintenance, and ranger deployment require sustained financial support. Additionally, as poaching threats persist, it is vital that we keep our security efforts sharp and ahead of those seeking to harm our wildlife.

Your continued support enables us to expand and protect this vital conservation landscape. Whether through funding for rehabilitation efforts, ranger salaries, or security enhancements, every contribution makes a direct impact.

Thank you for standing with us in this mission to create a safer, stronger conservation area for generations to come.

With gratitude,
Annie Peatling
Funding & Reporting
Zululand Conservation Trust