Conservation

The Greater Addo-Amathole Biodiversity Economy Node (GAA BEN) Master Plan was formally launched during the 5th Multistakeholder Coordination Forum, held from 31 March – 01 April 2026, at Royal Saint Andrews in Port Alfred. The Master Plan is the result of a multi-year consultation process and sets out a clear framework for unlocking biodiversity economy opportunities across the node. Its launch signals the transition from planning to implementation.

Artificial intelligence can now produce wildlife images so convincing that most people cannot tell them from the real thing. These images circulate on social media, accumulate thousands of shares, and quietly reshape how people understand the wildlife and ecosystems.That reshaping has consequences.

Transfrontier Conservation Areas (TFCAs) are massive cross-border ecosystems. They share transboundary resources and have ecological corridors for species migration. These areas are critical to regional integration and sustainable development in Southern Africa. With 14 SADC-approved TFCAs spanning over a million square kilometers, their complexity is unmatched. A large part of their management relies on a shared communication strategy, looking at both the internal and external communication elements. This is vitally important to bride socio-political differences that have an influence on conservation measures.

In comparison to the 2023 figures, KwaZulu-Natal has seen a significant reduction in rhino poaching, with a notable decrease observed in Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park. Through Ezemvelo’s Rhino Guardianship Strategy and the mass dehorning operation, rhino poaching has seen a sharp drop of 80% in Hluhluwe - iMfolozi Park (HiP). In recognition of World Rhino Day (22 September 2025), Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife is reaffirming its commitment to Rhino conservation and ensuring that poaching is eradicated in its reserves entirely.