SAVING NAMIBIA'S LAST BLACK RHINOSSaving Namibia's last black rhinos
The Namibian News - National | 2019-04-26 by Yokany Oliveira A CHANCE encounter over 35 years ago changed the lives of two women after realising that they share the same passion for wildlife conservation. The encounter connected Blythe Loutit and Ina Britz, who would later establish Namibia's first rhino conservation project – the Save the Rhino Trust (SRT) in 1982. * Additional information by Wilderness Safaris Namibia |
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@behatiprinsloo
HAPPY EARTH DAY!
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Today I’m excited to share something very close to my heart. I’m teaming up with @savetherhinonamibia to help raise awareness and further educate myself on how we can help save these animals. Namibia (my home country) has the biggest population of black rhinos left in the wild. I am deeply passionate about keeping it this way. Growing up in Africa was incredible. It would be a dream to be able to show my children these beautiful creatures thriving as they deserve for years to come. I’m heading back home to see first hand what i can do to help. How ALL of us can help. I’ll keep you posted! For me, this year is the year of actions over words. I’m going back to Mother Africa to help these Rhinos. They need us! Photo credit: Peter Beard 🦏 |
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22 September 2017
World Rhino Day arrives this year with a new cause for celebration
World Rhino Day arrives this year with a new cause for celebration
F.L.T.R: Mrs Imme Hucke-Mcfarlane (Head Financial Control - Namdeb), Mrs Hannelie Turner (PR and Fundraising Manager - SRT), Mr Daniel Kali (Country Representative - Namibia De Beers), Mr Dansikie Ganuseb (SRT), Mr Markus Lubbe (Acting CEO - Namdeb), Mr Simson Uri-Khob (CEO - SRT), Mr Martin Nawaseb (SRT), Mr Otto Shikongo (CEO - Debmarine Namibia).
World Rhino Day is celebrated on September 22 every year and this special day provides the opportunity for cause-related organizations around the world in raising awareness against rhino poaching and illegal trade in rhino horn.
This year Save the Rhino Trust (SRT) celebrated its 35th year of existence. It has taken a huge amount of consistent hard work in a very challenging and tough environment to survive often challenging times. From the point of near extinction, the rhino population has rebounded. SRT has had great success in reducing poaching within the Kunene region and has seen its rhino population triple since its inception. However, we could not do this without the support of our generous donors.
Just in time for World Rhino Day came the announcement from the Debmarine-Namdeb Foundation that they will be sponsoring 3 vehicles to the value of N$1.5 mil to SRT. “As CEO of Save the Rhino Trust it is my honour to personally convey our gratitude for the support and cooperation we have been receiving from Debamarine Namibia and Namdeb”, said Simson Uri-Khob. “These vehicles will contribute to our ability to patrol and monitor the area and update the largest and longest running database of these animals. Furthermore, SRT conduct joint patrols with key law enforcement officers, provide enforcement support and training, assist with the investigation of poaching incidents”.
The extremely erroneous and harmful belief by some that rhino horns can cure illnesses such as fevers, blood disorders, gout and cancers has brought all five remaining species of rhino to the edge of extinction. Wildlife organisations face an uphill battle against highly sophisticated and pervasive poachers. Protecting some of the most at risk animals on the planet requires considerable resources, significant aid and enduring dedication. SRT is totally reliant on aid such as provided by corporates and individuals to support the defense and conservation of these otherwise helpless animals. “We operate in a remote, rugged area of more than a million hectares, with few fences, no national park status and no controls over who goes in or out. Working closely with the Ministry of Environment and Tourism, local communities and NGOs by the end of 2011, Namibia’s northwest black rhino population had more than quadrupled since SRT’s inception. Our dedicated teams of trackers go out on daily patrols to monitor this last truly free-ranging population of black rhino in the world. Winning this battle is only possible if we stand shoulder-to-shoulder with like-minded individuals and organizations to ensure criminals do not destroy a large part of Namibia’s natural heritage” said Uri-Khob.
Commenting on the donation, Debmarine Namibia CEO – Otto Shikongo said, “as we celebrate World Rhino Day, we would like to pay tribute to the men and women in law enforcement, the Ministry of Environment and Tourism and our partners, SRT, for their continued efforts to safeguard our precious rhinos for future posterity. As a company involved in mining, we uphold sustainability as our focal success point. Nowhere is sustainability more critical, than in the natural environment to protect our wild-life and vegetation; which in turn is essential for the continued survival of humans. We wish SRT well with their endeavors, and trust that the vehicles will make a big difference in the battle to protect the rhino.”
This year Save the Rhino Trust (SRT) celebrated its 35th year of existence. It has taken a huge amount of consistent hard work in a very challenging and tough environment to survive often challenging times. From the point of near extinction, the rhino population has rebounded. SRT has had great success in reducing poaching within the Kunene region and has seen its rhino population triple since its inception. However, we could not do this without the support of our generous donors.
Just in time for World Rhino Day came the announcement from the Debmarine-Namdeb Foundation that they will be sponsoring 3 vehicles to the value of N$1.5 mil to SRT. “As CEO of Save the Rhino Trust it is my honour to personally convey our gratitude for the support and cooperation we have been receiving from Debamarine Namibia and Namdeb”, said Simson Uri-Khob. “These vehicles will contribute to our ability to patrol and monitor the area and update the largest and longest running database of these animals. Furthermore, SRT conduct joint patrols with key law enforcement officers, provide enforcement support and training, assist with the investigation of poaching incidents”.
The extremely erroneous and harmful belief by some that rhino horns can cure illnesses such as fevers, blood disorders, gout and cancers has brought all five remaining species of rhino to the edge of extinction. Wildlife organisations face an uphill battle against highly sophisticated and pervasive poachers. Protecting some of the most at risk animals on the planet requires considerable resources, significant aid and enduring dedication. SRT is totally reliant on aid such as provided by corporates and individuals to support the defense and conservation of these otherwise helpless animals. “We operate in a remote, rugged area of more than a million hectares, with few fences, no national park status and no controls over who goes in or out. Working closely with the Ministry of Environment and Tourism, local communities and NGOs by the end of 2011, Namibia’s northwest black rhino population had more than quadrupled since SRT’s inception. Our dedicated teams of trackers go out on daily patrols to monitor this last truly free-ranging population of black rhino in the world. Winning this battle is only possible if we stand shoulder-to-shoulder with like-minded individuals and organizations to ensure criminals do not destroy a large part of Namibia’s natural heritage” said Uri-Khob.
Commenting on the donation, Debmarine Namibia CEO – Otto Shikongo said, “as we celebrate World Rhino Day, we would like to pay tribute to the men and women in law enforcement, the Ministry of Environment and Tourism and our partners, SRT, for their continued efforts to safeguard our precious rhinos for future posterity. As a company involved in mining, we uphold sustainability as our focal success point. Nowhere is sustainability more critical, than in the natural environment to protect our wild-life and vegetation; which in turn is essential for the continued survival of humans. We wish SRT well with their endeavors, and trust that the vehicles will make a big difference in the battle to protect the rhino.”
14 September 2017
Rhino conservation awards honour rangers on the frontline
Rhino conservation awards honour rangers on the frontline
Martin Nawaseb (second from right) and Boas Hambo (middle) received the award from from the South African Minister of Environment Edna Molewa.
The Rhino Conservation Awards held in South Africa, celebrated conservationists who have made a marked impact in the war against rhino poaching. With a holistic view of rhino conservation, the Awards honour those that strive to limit risks and vulnerabilities within their specific areas of expertise: from field rangers to conservation practitioners; conservation supporters; political, investigative and judicial supporters; and endangered species conservationists.
The winner of the Conservation Practitioner Award was the Kruger National Park’s Marula South ranger team. The runner up was Save the Rhino Trust’s Conservancy Rhino Ranger Incentive Programme. “I was very happy to be able to attend the event, to meet so many rangers from across Africa and of course to bring back an award to Namibia. It really felt great when they called our names and everyone cheered, especially the Namibians in the crowd!” said Boas Hambo, Rhino Ranger Northern Field Coordinator. “It is very exciting to be recognized by our peers from all across Africa. This is truly a team award, one that so many individuals and institutions working at the coal-face of rhino conservation in north-west Namibia can be proud of. For conservation efforts to be successful we need a collaborative approach with efforts being made by a variety of passionate contributors” added Dr Jeff Muntifering, Save the Rhino Trust Science Adviser.
The Rhino Conservation Awards have been held annually since 2012, celebrating those that continue to fight in the rhino poaching war, under the patronage of Prince Albert II of Monaco. The Awards were founded by Dr Larry Hansen and Miss Xiaoyang Yu in collaboration with the South African Department of Environmental Affairs and the Game Rangers Association of Africa.
1 September 2017
World Rhino Day
World Rhino Day was first announced by WWF-South Africa in 2010. The following year, World Rhino Day grew into an international success, encompassing both African and Asian rhino species, thanks to the efforts of two determined women.
It all started with an email: In mid-2011, Lisa Jane Campbell of Chishakwe Ranch in Zimbabwe was already planning ahead for World Rhino Day. She searched online for ideas and potential collaborators, and found Rhishja’s blog. Lisa Jane sent Rhishja an email, and the two found they shared a common goal of making World Rhino Day a day of celebration for all five species of rhino. In the months that followed, they worked together to make World Rhino Day 2011 an international success, both online and offline. World Rhino Day has since grown to become a global phenomenon, uniting NGOs, zoos, cause-related organizations, businesses, and concerned individuals from nearly every corner of the world!
World Rhino Day
World Rhino Day was first announced by WWF-South Africa in 2010. The following year, World Rhino Day grew into an international success, encompassing both African and Asian rhino species, thanks to the efforts of two determined women.
It all started with an email: In mid-2011, Lisa Jane Campbell of Chishakwe Ranch in Zimbabwe was already planning ahead for World Rhino Day. She searched online for ideas and potential collaborators, and found Rhishja’s blog. Lisa Jane sent Rhishja an email, and the two found they shared a common goal of making World Rhino Day a day of celebration for all five species of rhino. In the months that followed, they worked together to make World Rhino Day 2011 an international success, both online and offline. World Rhino Day has since grown to become a global phenomenon, uniting NGOs, zoos, cause-related organizations, businesses, and concerned individuals from nearly every corner of the world!
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25 August 2017
In Memoriam It is with great sorrow that we have learned of the sudden death of Ismael Mbomboro who died on Monday, 21 August 2017 at the age of 54. His death stunned and saddened friends and colleagues at Save the Rhino Trust. Ismael was enjoying his weekend off at the time of his passing. Ismael joined Save the Rhino Trust in December 2015. He was a valued member of our team of rangers based at Desert Rhino Camp and will be greatly missed. In a recent interview he said: “I’m very proud of my job and I like being in nature and acting as a save-keeper for our rhinos.” Our thoughts go out to his family and friends in this difficult time. |
08 June 2017
SRT Celebrates Strengthened Partnerships
On Thursday 8 June 2017, Save the Rhino Trust’s Field Base at MaiGoHa was alight with excitement as donors and partners came together to celebrate the inauguration of its upgraded solar supply system.
Read more about it here.
SRT Celebrates Strengthened Partnerships
On Thursday 8 June 2017, Save the Rhino Trust’s Field Base at MaiGoHa was alight with excitement as donors and partners came together to celebrate the inauguration of its upgraded solar supply system.
Read more about it here.
Stand Together
29 May 2017
It's official! Save the Rhino Trust's music video, 'Stand Together' has been released into the world! You can access the video here.
Please help us spread the word by sharing the video via your networks.
You can also show support by purchasing the 'Stand Together' song, here. Or by donating to our cause to save the rhino from extinction, here.
Find more information about our OneVoice Campaign.
Lyrics and a translation of the local languages can be found here.
It's official! Save the Rhino Trust's music video, 'Stand Together' has been released into the world! You can access the video here.
Please help us spread the word by sharing the video via your networks.
You can also show support by purchasing the 'Stand Together' song, here. Or by donating to our cause to save the rhino from extinction, here.
Find more information about our OneVoice Campaign.
Lyrics and a translation of the local languages can be found here.
Welcome to a new era in rhino conservation!
"It is a real privilege to re-introduce our newsletter as we celebrate a new era in rhino conservation.
With the instigation of intelligence operations, advanced technological assistance, a creative national outreach campaign and strengthened local and international partnerships, Save the Rhino Trust is positive about the future of the last free-roaming population of desert adapted black rhino."
Simson Uri-Khob, CEO, Save the Rhino Trust
Access our newly relaunched newsletter here.
"It is a real privilege to re-introduce our newsletter as we celebrate a new era in rhino conservation.
With the instigation of intelligence operations, advanced technological assistance, a creative national outreach campaign and strengthened local and international partnerships, Save the Rhino Trust is positive about the future of the last free-roaming population of desert adapted black rhino."
Simson Uri-Khob, CEO, Save the Rhino Trust
Access our newly relaunched newsletter here.
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05 May 2017
RMB Namibia provides pedal power to SRT trackers Thanks to generous support from RMB Namibia and the FNB Foundation, Save the Rhino Trust was able to purchase 8 mountain bikes to help its trackers protect the last free-ranging population of black rhino left on earth. Read more here. |
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14 April 2017
CYMOT continues to support SRT “Our business is based upon the desire to explore Namibia's wide-open spaces and our special wildlife. For the last two years, we have been supporting Save the Rhino Trust because we believe in the work they are doing and it is imperative upon us as a company to give back." Axel Theissen, CEO of CYMOT. Read more here. |
24 February 2017
Pupkewitz MegaTech donates to Save the Rhino Trust
Pupkewitz MegaTech handed over a donation to Save the Rhino Trust Namibia, consisting of 10 x LED rechargeable camping lanterns, 10 x pocket LED flashlights and 3 x year planners.
Read more here.
Pupkewitz MegaTech donates to Save the Rhino Trust
Pupkewitz MegaTech handed over a donation to Save the Rhino Trust Namibia, consisting of 10 x LED rechargeable camping lanterns, 10 x pocket LED flashlights and 3 x year planners.
Read more here.
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November 2016
Rössmund supports Save the Rhino Trust As a commitment to support Save the Rhino Trust in its mission to save the rhino from extinction, Rössmund Golf Course hosts a grand annual event to the benefit of Namibia’s black rhino population, the SRT Corporate Golf Day. Read more here. |
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22 September 2016
One Voice on World Rhino Day On International World Rhino Day 2016, Save the Rhino Trust launched a national outreach campaign to take a stand in support of rhino conservation and against poaching. Namibians from all walks of life added their voice to say as one - SAVE OUR RHINOS. The popular Namibian artist, Elemotho and his band, Tayo, Kali, Piu and Samuel, have collaborated with Oteya, Esme “Songbird” and upcoming rapper Meta, on an original song called "Stand Together" that has become the anthem of our efforts to save the rhino. |
Read more about our World Rhino Day campaign here and find audio and voice clips here.
Let's stand together before we lose them forever!
The song is available for purchasing here.
Let's stand together before we lose them forever!
The song is available for purchasing here.
28 September 2015
Artwork donation to SRT
Artwork donation to SRT
| artwork_donation_to_srt_on_its_way_to_dswf_in_london.pdf |
22 September 2015
WORLD RHINO DAY IN NAMIBIA
WORLD RHINO DAY IN NAMIBIA
| wrd_entry_form_2015_fin.pdf |
4 September 2015
B2Gold Sponsorship
B2Gold Sponsorship
| b2gold_sponsorship_2015.pdf |
August 2015
Save the Rhino Trust and Wilderness Safaris Renew Partnership until 2020
Save the Rhino Trust and Wilderness Safaris Renew Partnership until 2020
| srt_and_wilderness_safaris_renew_partnership.pdf |
16 June 2015
Swift, coordinated action by SRT, MET and Nampol leads to apprehension of poachers
Swift, coordinated action by SRT, MET and Nampol leads to apprehension of poachers
| rhino_poaching_-_june_2015.pdf |
3 June 2015
For immediate release –
Save the Rhino Trust Namibia announces the appointment of new members to its Board of Trustees
For immediate release –
Save the Rhino Trust Namibia announces the appointment of new members to its Board of Trustees
| announcement_of_new_members_of_the_board.pdf |
2 February 2015
Dr. Axel Hartmann joins Save the Rhino Trust Namibia as its Chief Operating Officer
Dr. Axel Hartmann joins Save the Rhino Trust Namibia as its Chief Operating Officer
| 150202_srt.docx |
16 January 2015
Namibian Minister warns poachers.
http://www.news24.com/Green/News/Namibian-minister-warns-poachers-20150116
Namibian Minister warns poachers.
http://www.news24.com/Green/News/Namibian-minister-warns-poachers-20150116
7 January 2015
How black rhinos and local communities help each other In Namibia.
http://news.mongabay.com/2015/0107-hance-muntifering-interview.html
How black rhinos and local communities help each other In Namibia.
http://news.mongabay.com/2015/0107-hance-muntifering-interview.html
31 December 2014
Press Release: Save the Rhino Trust on the offensive, coordinating efforts with Kunene Rhino Protection
“Our rhinos are under siege, and SRT is going on the offensive,” said the Honourable Dudu Murorua, Chairman of the Save the Rhino Trust Board of Trustees.
Press Release: Save the Rhino Trust on the offensive, coordinating efforts with Kunene Rhino Protection
“Our rhinos are under siege, and SRT is going on the offensive,” said the Honourable Dudu Murorua, Chairman of the Save the Rhino Trust Board of Trustees.
| srt_press_release_311214.pdf |
November 2014
Report on the progress of the Rhino Ranger programme in Kunene, Namibia
Download file below:
Report on the progress of the Rhino Ranger programme in Kunene, Namibia
Download file below:
| rhino_ranger_2014_update.pdf |
November 2014
Death of an Echo Warrior - a Tribute to Boxer
Download file below:
Death of an Echo Warrior - a Tribute to Boxer
Download file below:
| srt_tribute_to_boxer.pdf |