Wildlife Conservation Experience at Somkhanda Community Game Reserve

In May, Adopt-a-Rhino supporters, JT Ross Charitable Trust and Almar Container Group participated in a unique wildlife conservation experience at Somkhanda Community Game Reserve, where they witnessed the dehorning of a white rhino named Kibo, a rhino adopted by Almar Container Group.

Located in northern KwaZulu-Natal, Somkhanda is South Africa’s first community-owned Big Five reserve. Spanning more than 12,000 hectares, the reserve is home to rich endemic flora and fauna while creating sustainable employment and economic opportunities for the local community.

With dehorning proving to be approximately 96% effective as a poaching deterrent in private reserves, the procedure remains a critical intervention in rhino conservation efforts. The operation was led by wildlife veterinarian Dr Mike Toft, Reserve Manager Meiring Prinsloo and volunteer organisation Wildlife ACT.

The process involved darting the rhino from a helicopter using M99, a carefully controlled opioid sedative that allows for partial sedation while maintaining the animal’s vital signs. Throughout the procedure, which also included sample collection and identification recording, Kibo was closely monitored to ensure his safety and wellbeing at all times.

The operation serves as a powerful reminder of the urgent need to protect one of Africa’s most iconic and threatened species.

Funding for these critical conservation initiatives is generated through the Adopt-a-Rhino Programme and strengthened through support from the Conservation Capital Fund of WILDTRUST.

We would like to send a special thank you to our supporters, JT Ross and Alma Containers for their continued support.

Individuals, schools and businesses are invited to support rhino conservation by adopting a rhino.

For more information on how you can support WILDTRUST’s efforts to secure and protect South Africa’s biodiversity, contact Buyi at Buyisiwe@wildtrust.co.za .