The DA calls on Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA) MEC Rev Musa Zondi, to provide KwaZulu-Natal’s (KZN) latest rhino poaching statistics for 2024 and obtain a full report on current anti-poaching interventions from Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife (EKZNW).
The move comes after reports that at least 20 dehorned rhinos in the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi game park were killed last month by a poaching gang, allegedly connected to a Mozambique-based syndicate.
The rhinos were killed for their remaining stumps as, during the dehorning process, not all of the horn is removed in order to prevent injury or permanent damage to the animal.
The DA is extremely concerned that despite EKZNW’s ongoing attempts to prevent rhinos being killed – through dehorning and other programmes – poaching syndicates continue to operate in KZN.
EKZN have been positive in their responses to KZN’s conservation portfolio committee when it comes to efforts to safeguard this species, claiming to have seen a decrease in rhino poaching since the dehorning project started. However, the number of rhinos killed last month requires drastic action.
While dehorning appears to be a step in the right direction, further preventative measures need to be put in place to ensure the safety of KZN’s rhinos.
This includes EKZNW and other conservation institutions being on high alert on a constant basis in a bid to ensure that intelligence and support is provided to intercept poachers before they strike. KZN’s park fences need to be properly secured and monitored to detract poachers from entering.
The safety of KZN’s rhino population – and other species targeted by poachers – must be prioritised.