As South Africa navigates the challenges of preserving its unparalleled biodiversity, 2024 has emerged as a pivotal year for conservation. From groundbreaking initiatives to critical setbacks, here are the top conservation stories shaping the future of South Africa’s natural heritage.
1. Zululand Rhino Oprhanage Hosts Highest Numbers of Rhino Orphans
After years of relentless poaching, South Africa has reported a slight decline in rhino poaching incidents in the Kruger National Park in 2024, however KwaZulu Natal did not escape such declines. Thanks to enhanced security measures, community engagement, and technological advancements such as drone surveillance and DNA tracking, rhino populations in key reserves are showing slight signs of stabilization. However, experts caution that sustained efforts are necessary to ensure long-term success. Due to the increase in rhino orphans, The Zululand Conservation Trust has built an expanded tented camp for an increased number for rhino carers and volunteers at the Zululand Rhino Orphanage – get involved here.
2. The EWT Helps Re-Discover The Golden Mole
A blind mole with an iridescent coat sheen that ‘swims’ through sand and has been lost to science since 1936 is lost no longer, thanks to a team of conservationists and geneticists from the Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT) and the University of Pretoria. The rediscovered De Winton’s golden mole–which is from South Africa–is the 11th of the world’s most wanted lost species to be rediscovered since the Search for Lost Species launched in 2017. A research paper, “Environmental DNA from soil reveals the presence of a ‘lost’ Afrotherian species,” published Nov. 24, in the scientific journal Biodiversity and Conservation, describes the incredible lengths the team went to in order to rediscover the species.
3. Conservation Eden and Strandloper Project Inspire Community-Led Conservation
2024 has witnessed a surge in community-driven conservation programs, with local communities taking ownership of wildlife protection. Projects Conservation Eden and The Strandloper Project are making conservation an active adventure and inspiring people young and old to play a part.
4. Go2Africa Continues to Support The Return of the African Wild Dog
Travel powerhouse, Go2Africa continues to support The EWT’s Wild Dog programmes as well as a new annual online fundraising auction. One of the year’s most exciting success stories is the reintroduction of African wild dogs to regions where they had been extinct for decades. Carefully coordinated efforts by conservation organizations like The EWT have led to the successful release and tracking of several packs in protected areas. This rewilding project is not just about restoring balance to ecosystems but also about rekindling hope for one of Africa’s most endangered species.
5. Marine Dynamics and Dyer Island Conservation Trust Continue to Break Marine Conservation Milestones
10 years of the African Penguin & Seabird Sanctuary, 20 years of the Dyer Island Conservation Trust and 25 years of Marine Dynamics!
6. Cape Leopard Trust Celebrates 20 Years!
2024 was a particularly notable year for the Cape Leopard Trust as they celebrated our 20-year anniversary! Born in 2004 from one man’s desire to research and protect leopards in the Cederberg, the organisation has since organically grown into a dedicated team of core staff, students, advisors, trustees and public supporters. Over the years they have built countless partnerships and valuable collaborations; expanded their footprint to the broader Western Cape and beyond; and made immeasurable contributions to leopard research, biodiversity conservation and environmental education.
7. The Role of Technology in Conservation
2024 marks a year of technological breakthroughs in South African conservation efforts. AI-powered camera traps, remote sensing, and blockchain technology for tracking wildlife products are revolutionizing how conservationists monitor and protect ecosystems. These advancements provide new tools to combat wildlife trafficking and habitat loss.
8. And Finally, From The Expedition Project
The Expedition Project, a social enterprise dedicated to conservation and community development in South Africa, moved forward in the following ways in 2024:
- Launch of Lost Species Expeditions: Thanks to recent projects confirming the existence of Breviceps branchi (Branch’s Rain Frog), previously considered elusive, The EWT and TEP are building on this success to initiate expeditions targeting other elusive species, including amphibians, birds, insects, mammals, plants, and reptiles. These expeditions aim to utilize modern scientific techniques, such as environmental DNA (eDNA), to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of discovering and conserving lost or rare species.
- Expansion of Online Learning Platforms: The Expedition Project continued to develop its award-winning online courses, offering topics in African wildlife, biomimicry, conservation, and wildlife veterinary medicine. These courses are designed to provide flexible learning opportunities for individuals worldwide, supporting both education and fundraising efforts for ongoing conservation initiatives.
- Community Engagement and Fundraising: Throughout 2024, the project organized various fundraising events, including online auctions and donation drives, to support local communities and conservation projects. Notably, they participated in Giving Tuesday on December 3, 2024, promoting initiatives that make a positive impact on the environment and society.
- Collaborations with Hospitality Partners: The Expedition Project strengthened its partnerships with local accommodations, restaurants, and activity providers in South Africa. This collaborative approach supports local businesses and integrates community and conservation projects, offering travelers unique experiences that contribute to sustainable development. Check out TEP’s 2024 Awards here.
Looking Ahead
As South Africa continues to grapple with the dual pressures of human development and environmental preservation, 2024’s conservation stories highlight both challenges and opportunities. By building on these successes and addressing persistent threats, South Africa can serve as a global model for how diverse stakeholders can work together to protect our planet’s natural treasures.
What are your thoughts on these stories? Share your insights and help amplify the conversation around conservation in South Africa.
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