Since 2015, Sabi Sand Nature Reserve has been at the forefront of a revolutionary project aimed at combating rhino poaching, a devastating issue that had previously decimated wildlife populations.
Partnering with the Connected Conservation Foundation, the reserve implemented a range of cutting-edge technological solutions to protect key species, including black and white rhinos, elephants, lions, cheetahs, giraffes and wild dogs.
The initial pilot phase of the project saw the deployment of technology designed to drastically reduce poaching incidents. Over the first two years, the results were staggering.
Poaching within the 62,000-hectare reserve decreased by 96%, with a complete cessation of rhino poaching reported during 2017 and 2018. This success marked a significant turning point for conservation efforts in the region, as traditional anti-poaching methods had previously struggled to keep up with the well-organised criminal syndicates targeting wildlife.
At the heart of the project lies a suite of interconnected systems that ensure seamless communication across the reserve.
A point-to-multipoint radio area network creates a high-security net, backed by an updated IT infrastructure with improved bandwidth, biometric entry systems, and CCTV surveillance.
Long-range thermal cameras and magnetic sensors along the perimeter help detect and deter intruders, while the Earth Ranger software integrates all data, allowing real-time monitoring and analysis.
These advancements have enabled the reserve’s rangers to respond to threats within seven minutes, a dramatic improvement from the previous 30-minute delay, which often resulted in the deaths of rhinos and other endangered species.
The success of the project has not been without its challenges. The vast, unfenced border with Kruger National Park and the remoteness of the area have required the continual adaptation of technology to suit the unique environment.
Iain Olivier, a conservationist and protected area manager at Sabi Sand, remarked on the importance of these innovations, stating that “technologies such as thermal cameras, biometric entry systems, and real-time data analysis have proven to be game-changers. They allow us to respond to threats in as little as seven minutes, significantly enhancing our ability to protect vulnerable species”.
While the technological solution has proven effective in curbing poaching, the long-term sustainability of these efforts relies heavily on ongoing funding and collaboration.
As the project enters its third phase, new technologies are being tested to extend protection over an even larger area. The reserve’s leadership remains committed to refining their approach and staying ahead of poachers’ increasingly sophisticated tactics.
IOL