A ground-breaking Community and Wildlife Wellness Campaign was recently launched in a pioneering step toward conservation and community empowerment.

Sinqobile Equestrian Security Services, together with Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager (TRIM) Security and Forensics, and Rooi Kat Conservation, are behind the launch.

The campaign marked a major milestone for both Sinqobile and TRIM as they strengthened their shared commitment to safeguarding South Africa’s wildlife while deepening environmental awareness across local communities.

The launch, hosted at Transnet’s Pyramid South site, drew key stakeholders, including TRIM Security and Acting Forensics general manager Neil Naidu, Nature Conservation Reserve representatives, SAPS officials, community leaders, and Sinqobile’s executive team.

Sinqobile brand manager Thulani Makhubu said with illegal snaring and cable theft becoming growing concerns in conservation and rail safety, the event comes at a critical time.

He said the initiative aimed to educate communities on wildlife threats, encourage empathy, and inspire positive behavioural change.

By combining storytelling, visual demonstrations, and direct engagement, the campaign transforms scientific knowledge into accessible, community-friendly learning.

Its primary focus is bridging the gap between environmental science and everyday experience, ensuring that communities understand the value of biodiversity and the real dangers associated with illegal wildlife activities.

He stressed the long-term ecological damage caused by snare activities, noting that snares not only inflict severe suffering on wildlife but also create risks for railway employees and community members who may encounter distressed or injured animals.

Makhubu said many of these snares are crafted using stolen or discarded Transnet cables, which highlights a direct link between infrastructure crime and wildlife harm.

A central component of the campaign is an ambitious school outreach programme, set to be rolled out across Mamelodi and surrounding areas.

“Learners will be equipped with knowledge about biodiversity protection, the impact of ecosystem disruption, and ways they can support conservation through simple lifestyle choices.

“The aim is to build a generation of environmentally conscious citizens who understand the importance of wildlife and the consequences of illegal activities,” said Makhubu.

He said the campaign also includes a pilot project developed in collaboration with multiple partners, designed to serve as a replicable model for similar initiatives across South Africa once proven successful.

“This approach is key to ensuring the longevity and impact of conservation awareness efforts.”

The project was initiated by Danel Velthuysen from TRIM Security and Forensics’ Operations and Stakeholder Engagement, whose passion for community upliftment and animal welfare played a central role in bringing this initiative to life.

Velthuysen’s drive to connect conservation objectives with community needs ensured the campaign was rooted in both safety and sustainability.

Sinqobile Equestrian Security Services demonstrated its commitment by fully sponsoring the launch.

Given the company’s extensive work in wildlife-prone areas, Makhubu emphasised the importance of equipping its officers with specialised training on wildlife interaction, hazard management, and safety awareness.

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