The Black Mambas are changing the lives of Rhinos by fighting poachers and evolving the idea of women’s roles as protectors and rangers.
South Africa (06 February 2017) – The Black Mambas anti-poaching unit was created to eliminate the illegal trade of South African wildlife; the unit is the first all-female anti-poaching unit in the world.
“Coming from disadvantaged communities and breaking strong patriarchal tradition, these courageous women focus on eliminating illegal wildlife trade through conservation, education and the protection of wildlife, helping to ensure the long term survival of threatened and endangered species in the area.” – Dan Sadgrove
The Black Mambas patrol 20km a day without weapons looking for wire-snares, fence break-ins and poachers. The job is a risky one but the women feel strongly about the conservation of the Rhinos and educating the locals on the importance of saving the wildlife within Balule Game Reserve and the Greater Kruger National Park.
“They say the job that we are doing is for men, but now days things are equal. They treat us equally”
“We are the first ladies to become the Black Mamba’s, to become a ranger”
The women do fear for their lives as poachers can be ruthless but fear the danger that hangs over the Big 5 more. They want to change not only the lives of the rhinos but also their own, bettering their futures. They believe they are making a difference and with the help of the programmes, the Black Mambas are changing the communities around them too. The Black Mambas objectives are simple,
“Yes, our main objective is the protection of wildlife but we also strive to create a strong bond and educate the communities that live on the boundaries of Balule and the Greater Kruger Park to the benefits of saving their natural heritage. It is our belief that the war on poaching will not be won with guns and bullets but through the local communities and education.”
The women have pride for the way they are facing the poachers,
“I believe that by going unarmed, it makes me proud, that I’m not here for a fight. I am only here to do my job, to protect this area.”
Dan Sadgrove, the New Zealand Director and filmmaker, visited the Black Mambas on a recent trip to South Africa. He studied Anthropology and has a strong passion for different cultures and is always seeking a unique outlook on the different cultures he encounters.
The Rhino Guardians from Dan Sadgrove on Vimeo.
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