The project may exceed the 14 days depending on the funds generated, with Mr Cornelius saying he wants to raise at least R1 million in support of South Africa’s privately owned rhino and rhino orphanages.

Over past years a previous project, the Loskop Area Leopard Project, has grown from strength to strength with many problem leopards captured, collared and released back into the wild.

The Sleeping with the Rhinos project will start at 19:00 on September 1, with the kick-off of World Rhino Month.

uBhetyan-O-Africa is working hand-in-hand with Rhino Connect, a non-profit organisation supporting private rhino owners and rhino orphanages.

While camping out with his rhinos between 19:00 and 07:00 daily over two weeks, Mr Cornelius will be feeding his rhinos with bales of lusern, while live-streaming the event.

Surveillance cameras and a live-streaming channel have already been sponsored, enabling the public to follow each minute.

The project is aimed at injecting as much cash into private rhino sanctuaries and orphanages, which are not government-supported.
The money raised will be used for rhino feed and milk for abandoned calves.

Several local companies have pledged support and Mr Cornelius challenges others to also come on board.

Interested sponsors can contact him on 061 588 3714.