2019 HERITAGE DAY CELEBRATIONS – Lazaro Sibaya

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Iconic species, such as the Rhino, are part of our heritage and we dedicated National Heritage Day in the Mnisi Tribal Authority by raising Anti-Poaching Awareness and building relationships between Conservation Agencies and our people. 
The Acornhoek-Mhala SAPS coordinated the planning of an event to raise awareness to the residents of Mnisi communities following rhino poaching incidents that were affecting Sabi Sand, Manyeleti and Timbavati game reserve including the Kruger National Park.
The event took place in Clare A at Salani Primary School on the 24th of September 2019. About 500 people attended. Amongst them was the Chief (Mnisi), indunas, KNP, Sabi Sand, MTPA, K2C Rhino Ambassadors, Local Municipality, Community Policing Forums, Community Development Forums, Schools and community members.
Previously the residents felt unaffected by rhino poaching. This event served as an eye opener. Poachers coming from other SA provinces and neighbouring countries found temporary residence in many communities in the Mnisi area. The community members were aware of the activities but were never concerned about it.
In collaboration/partnership with all protected areas affected, the SAPS managed to work hand in hand with the communities towards fighting rhino poaching. It led to the reduction of rhino poaching incidents in the recent years.
Awareness through education is playing a big role in changing people’s mindsets. The Kruger to Canyons’ Rhino Ambassadors, funded by the National Department of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries, are playing a big role in this regard. They are deployed in all villages that are adjacent the Sabi Sand and Manyeleti Game Reserves, From Huntington(South) to Welverdiend (North). Their daily duties are to monitor the environment and teach environmental-related topics at schools, households, clinics, home based care centers and crèches. Their work has contributed hugely to reduction of rhino poaching incidents in the area.
The Rhino Ambassadors were recognized as big role players in fighting against rhino poaching by spreading the word. They were the first on the list to give the message of support. I was elected to speak on behalf of the group. The traditional authority, indunas, schools and residents were applauded for their support to the environmental monitors program run by the rhino ambassadors. All partners and residents were requested to work together to fight against rhino poaching. I mentioned that if we allow rhinos to be finished by the poachers, the elephants, lions and leopards will follow and us, humans, will follow.
It has been a successful event and it is believed that a seed has been planted to all individuals who attended. 


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