Sun Destinations, in association with WildAid and Ezulwini River Lodge, have organised an opportunity for local celebrities to meet the Black Mamba Anti-Poaching Unit on their home turf in the Balule Nature Reserve. Celebrities have a huge following and the Black Mambas need plenty of publicity in order to continue their successful plight in saving our rhinos. Since the Black Mamba’s inception in 2013, there has been a 76% reduction in snaring and poaching incidents in the Balule. This weekend, local South African celebrities will descend upon the luxurious Ezulwini River Lodge for an educational, informative and fun safari in the Balule! Marc Lottering, Maps Maponyane, Poppy and Masasa are just a few of the celebs who will meet the Black Mambas and enjoy a sundowner session hosted by one of Craig Spencer’s (founding member of the Black Mamba’s) successful team.
The Black Mambas anti-poaching unit have recently received a prestigious accolade (Champions of the Earth) from the United Nations for their work in anti-poaching. The Black Mambas are a team of women from the local community who work for 3 weeks at a time protecting the Balule Nature Reserve from poacher activity. Their approach to poaching is unique and has proven to be highly successful.
The Black Mambas patrol the Balule on foot while kitted out in full camo gear. They’ve received the necessary training and basic combat skills for their role. While out on foot they actively remove snares, inspect the fence line, bust poachers’ camps, and report any sign of suspicious activity to the authorities; who then act immediately.
“The Black Mambas have identified and destroyed over 12 poachers’ camps and 3 bush meat kitchens within the “buffer-zone” as well as reduced snaring and poisoning activities by 76% within our area of operation since their deployment in 2013” – Black Mambas APU.
After realising the need for maximum exposure, Sun Destinations, WildAid and Ezulwini River Lodge decided to invite a select few to enjoy a safari with a difference, that makes a difference. This weekend, local celebrities will get to know the Black Mambas and engage with those involved in hosting the event. With WildAid’s public standing and the role the celebrities have to play in the media, we’re hoping the Black Mambas Anti-Poaching Unit will become the next hot topic!
Celebrities will stay at Ezulwini River lodge, which is located on the banks of the Olifants River in the Balule Nature Reserve. A riverine forest of fig and mahogany trees extends its branches into leafy canopies, draping over a viewing deck and surrounding a scenic outdoor lounge. Celebs will relax in luxury safari suites with plunge pools, rustic outside showers and decor with hints of Africa. There will be boma dinners, wine tasting in a cellar, sundowners on a deck overlooking the Balule and game drives through the reserve.
Sun Destinations will document the weekend and one of our photographers, Em Gatland, will be there to capture the event from start to finish. We look forward to an educational, informative and fun weekend of game viewing and conservation!
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