The sponsorship agreement of the aircraft is valued at over R3.8 million.
According to Isaac Phaahla, communications and marketing manager of Kruger National Park (KNP), the Bat Hawk aircrafts are an affordable and safe alternative to helicopters, and will go a long way in assisting with the Kruger’s conservation and anti-poaching efforts. He said KNP spans over 2 million hectares of land and is divided in 22 sections.

“KNP continues to face several operational challenges linked to animal poaching, the poisoning of animals as well as snaring. The four Bat Hawk aircraft, which are proudly assembled in South Africa, will provide great visibility during adverse weather conditions as their light undercarriage can easily manoeuvre through porous terrain.” Speaking at the handover event of the aircraft, Anglo’s executive head of projects, Prakashim Moodliar, said their donation presents an important step for biodiversity and conservation in the KNP.

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“As an organisation that is committed to re-imagining mining to improve people’s lives, Anglo American Platinum has always been clear that we cannot do this work alone, and that building a safer, cleaner and more sustainable future has to be founded on the collaboration and knowledge sharing that comes from partnering with likeminded organisations.” Barbara Creecy, Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment said Anglo now joins a number of international and local companies and individuals who work with SANParks to protect its natural world and our threatened species.

“These ultra-light aircraft will assist us in carrying out aerial patrols as well as monitoring and effectively managing the environment.
“As custodians of our fauna and flora, SANParks has limited resources at its disposal. It is therefore important to form partnerships to look after our country’s rich and varied biodiversity,” Creecy concluded.