BY: SINETHEMBA ZONDI
In recent years, the Hluhluwe iMfolozi Park (HiP) in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, has become a major battleground to protect rhinos. People are hunting them for their horns, putting their lives in danger. The problem is serious, with many rhinos being hurt.
Last year, 325 rhinos were hurt in KwaZulu-Natal, and most of them, 307, were hurt in Hluhluwe iMfolozi Park. Some people in other countries believe that rhino horns can cure sickness and make men stronger, so they’re willing to pay a lot for them.
To help the rhinos, government and conservation groups are working together. Sihle Mkhize, from KZN Wildlife, says they’re trying hard to stop bad people from hurting rhinos. They’re teaming up with the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) to protect the rhinos, especially their horns.
“It’s sad that rhinos are losing their horns, but we’re working to stop them from falling into the wrong hands,” said Mkhize, showing how serious the situation is.
Taking care of rhino horns costs a lot of money and time, up to two years. WWF is helping to pay for this because they want to keep the rhinos safe.
Mr. Morné du Plessis, CEO of WWF South Africa, said it’s tough deciding to remove the rhino horns. “KwaZulu-Natal is really important for saving rhinos all over the world,” he said. Even though they don’t like removing the horns, they’re doing it to keep the rhinos safe.
