SANParks pays tribute to fallen ranger
The ranger was killed during a confrontation with a buffalo on May 4.
Kruger National Park (KNP) field ranger and dog handler Shando Mathebula (36) will be remembered for his courage, dedication and passion for conservation by those who worked alongside him.
In a tragic and unforeseen turn of events, Mathebula was killed during a confrontation with a buffalo at the Shangoni Section of the KNP on May 4.
SANParks’ acting chief executive, Dumisani Dlamini, expressed his sadness and that of the entire organisation in a statement.
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Dlamini extended condolences to the Mathebula family, friends, associates and fellow workers while paying tribute to the ranger.
“Very few people have the courage and necessary skills to perform the important undertaking other than rangers, which Shando was and will forever be part of,” said Dlamini.
“His dedication was influenced by the need to promote the principles of conservation and to make sure that our fauna and flora are protected.
“He will rank among the rangers who have passed on while serving the people of South Africa, protecting the environment, and what the organisation stands for,” he said.
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“Etlela hi kurhula – N’wana wa hina; may your soul rest in peace. You upheld the ranger values and flew the SANParks flag high with dignity.”
Dlamini said the exact circumstances and cause of the death are under investigation by the police and SANParks. The outcome will be communicated once available.
