The Black Mambas, an all female anti-poaching unit, operating in the Greater Kruger Park in South Africa, who care passionately about their wildlife heritage. Frustrated by the unprecedented rise in wildlife crime they have united to conduct anti-poaching operations and educate local communities.
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EXTINCTION is the only outcome if rhino poaching continues at its current level. South Africa has the largest population of rhino, but has experienced a 9,300% increase in poaching since 2007. Last year 1,025 rhinos were killed, if the current rate continues, rhinos will become extinct in the wild by 2025. The Black Mambas project focus is on park protection, front line anti-poaching operations and engaging local communities to change attitudes and behaviours.
The Black Mambas have undertaken a formal military training and will protect rhino through an increased anti-poaching presence in an area worst hit by the rhino poaching crisis. They have become role models and an increasingly influential voice in their community as a result of their conservation work. Many Mambas, previously unemployed are now supporting large families. This unit of young African women is addressing community social and moral decay, a product of unemployment.