31 July 2014

The Deputy Minister of Environmental Affairs, Ms Barbara Thomson, officially unveiled the Ranger Monument at the Kruger Gate in the Kruger National Park on 31 July 2014, as part of the World Ranger Day celebration.

The Monument acknowledges the contribution of past, present and future rangers to conservation in South Africa, and the world. The event marked the seventh anniversary of World Ranger Day held in memory of rangers who have lost their lives in the line of duty and to honour those who risk their lives daily to protect endangered species and other natural resources.

“Nowhere is the importance of Rangers more clearly illuminated than in the fight against rhino poaching,”  said Ms Thomson.  

The Deputy Minister added:  “As government we need to boost the morale of rangers by showing them their battle against poachers and other environmental crimes are not in vain. We want to tell you that we understand and fully appreciate that rhino poaching goes much deeper than mere physical security. Social and economic problems such as unemployment and poverty are part of the problem. 

“In other words, it is a multi-dimensional problem that extends beyond provincial borders, countries and government departments, and we are committed to develop a multi-dimensional combat strategy in support of your efforts.”

The unveiling ceremony was held as the number of rhino poached in South Africa since 1 January 2014 increased to 618. 

Since January this year 618 rhinos have been killed in South Africa – 400 in the Kruger National Park. A total of 82 rhinos have been killed for their horn in Limpopo, 52 in KwaZulu-Natal, 40 in North West and 24 in Limpopo.

A total of 172 alleged poachers have been arrested.

The Ranger Monument comprises parts of the Leadwood Tree; a tree that has survived where others have disappeared from the landscape. The Leadwood is the epitomy of longevity, outlasting many challenges and is a true icon of the Lowveld savanna.

“The rangers of the Kruger National Park, like the Leadwood, have survived for more than 100 years. Through their strength of spirit, their resilience to the hardships and dangers they face almost daily, the rangers will survive and continue to stand tall,” said Ms Thomson.

The Monument depicts the two Life Lines of the hand of rangers. The dominant wall represents the Life Line on the ranger’s hand, representing the ranger’s lives which are dedicated to serve the broad ideals of conservation.

The complementary wall illustrates the Stewardship responsibility of all people, particularly the ranger’s life as defending and conserving all creatures and natural places.

The two walls together form the Place. This is a reflection and contemplation of the lives dedicated to serve the responsibilities of all Mankind.

The Cain provides for the traditional tribute to the memory of lives well lives – those of the rangers who make a difference in the world. 

** South Africans and members of the international community are encouraged to report incidents of poaching and tip-offs to the anonymous tip-off lines 0800 205 005, 08600 10111 or Crime-Line on 32211.

Rhino poaching statistics

Rhino poaching arrests statistics

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