Poachers kill mother rhino and calf at KwaZulu-Natal’s private reserve

Thula Thula Exclusive Private Game Reserve is mourning the loss of two beloved rhinos, Ntombi and Jabulani, after poachers killed the animals. Their deaths have sparked an emotional outpouring and renewed calls for action against poaching.

The Thula Thula Exclusive Private Game Reserve in KwaZulu-Natal is mourning the deaths of a mother rhino and her young calf that were hunted down and killed by poachers. 

The reserve shared the sad news about Ntombi and Jabulani in a post on Facebook.

"We could not save Ntombi and Jabulani from poachers. But we can honour their lives by protecting the rhinos who remain. Together, we can prevent more rhino poaching tragedies. Please stand with us. Help us fight poaching and save lives," the reserve said. 

The reserve added that it has called on the community to continue the fight against poaching.

Commenting on the reserve's post, many shared messages of condolences and expressed outrage at the incident. 

"I am so truly moved and disturbed. This feels closer to our hearts, affects us more deeply because they were known, loved, named. May all of us delve into the intensity of these feelings and transform the anger and sadness into being resolute in our anti- poaching support," said Helena Bester.

"What a devastating and senseless tragedy; my heart is shattered.  They were such beautiful beings! May justice be swift and unequivocal - and I'm not just talking about the law. Holding all of you, especially your rangers and guides - and Thabo - in my heart as you grieve and seek justice for Ntombi and Jabulani," added Lorrin Maughan.

"This is such terrible news. You have worked so hard to prevent these horrific acts, and you have given so much love and allowed us to share that love.

"The world has been made better by conservationists like you. One day, may there be no poachers, no human who feels superior and separate from any creature. I pray that Ntombi and Jabulani will be in loving companionship and find joy and healing in the afterlife," said Melissa Osborne.

According to the Helping Rhinos organisation, between January and August this year, 230 rhinos have been poached in SA.

Just last year, South Africa reaffirmed its opposition to ivory and rhino horn trade.

At the time, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) said SA will not support any move to reopen the ivory or rhino horn trade. Our duty is to protect our wildlife, not to profit from their destruction.

According to the Helping Rhinos organisation, between January and August this year, 230 rhinos have been poached in SA.