"Field rangers remain the most critical first line of defence on the ground against rhino poaching," said PPF CEO, Werner Myburgh. "With most incursions happening at night, and as criminal syndicates become more and more sophisticated in terms of their tactics and equipment, we are proud to assist SANParks in levelling the playing field with advanced technology that not only ensures a safer working environment for the rangers, but also keeps them one step ahead of the poachers."
Night-vision has become a key opto-electronic technology in modern conflicts that take place in the dark. The new equipment allows for thermal imaging and high quality depth perception, whilst offering a comfortable and ergonomic size and shape.
Major-General Johan Jooste, who heads up Kruger National Park's counter-poaching activities, welcomed the contribution. "This generous contribution of such a large quantity of much needed night-vision gear will help rangers throughout the park to gain the advantage and be pro-active, thus not only saving rhinos, but also safeguarding themselves. The equipment can be seen as a force multiplier that makes the ranger more effective and the same number of people can have a greater effect. We salute the PPF as a valuable ally in our rhino campaign."
The contribution from PPF also includes training sessions so as to teach the rangers how to most effectively utilise the night-vision equipment for their specific needs within the unique Kruger National Park environment.
Through its Rhino Protection Programme (RPP), PPF supports various projects that aim to stop or deter illegal activities on the ground - i.e. at the frontlines of the poaching war; destabilise and interrupt the supply chain through interventions such as intelligence operations; as well as efforts to reduce market demand for illegally traded rhino products.
The RPP is implemented under the auspices of the South African Department of Environmental Affairs in partnership with SANParks and Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife. The roll-out of the multi-faceted programme is made possible through funding from the Dutch and Swedish postcode lotteries and various other private donors and foundations.
