KZN conservation authority holds prayer for protection against poaching

While the fight against rhino poaching continues through dehorning, Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife last week hosted a prayer session to address the scourge at Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park (HiP).

The holy gathering, attended by the community and church congregants, was held at HiP’s Centenary Centre, led by the leader of the Nazareth Baptist Church, Inkosi uNyazi Lwezulu Mduduzi Shembe.

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Recent statistics from the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) reveal that over 1 000 rhinos have been dehorned at HiP since April 2024.

Praying for the work done by the nature conservation organisation, the church leader encouraged congregants to cherish nature and look after it for future generations.

The gathering strengthened working relations between the church and nature conservation organisation.

Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife CEO Sihle Mkhize said this visit was significant for the organisation to address and curb illegal poaching and vandalism of the facility, including its fencing infrastructure.

“We are meeting various community leaders; today we are here with the Nazareth Baptist Church leader as someone with a huge following. This is our strategic programme to go around seeking support for the work we are doing. We will continue working with various leaders for the success of nature conservation,” said Mkhize.

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