Trip to Somhkanda Reserve

Today I arrived at the Somkhanda Reserve where our rhino lives. It is in the very northern part of Zululand almost reaching the Swaziland 

border. It is quite a hilly reserve and very lush right now. The rains have been very kind this year, in fact it is raining today. 

We first visited the Bhejane Camp where the rhino trackers live. This camp also houses the school teacher and school camp facilities. On first seeing the school facilities I thought it must be a unique experience to rough it for these kids but of course that was "first world" thinking. In reality, these kids have never seen a shower and have to have lessons on how they work. They normally wash in a bucket. The dormitory style wooden slat beds are much more comfortable than their usual floor mats. The education these kids get however is fully centered around conservation and the circle of life. This education is essential to show them the true value of the animals to them and their people. 

The Gumbi community were awarded this land from the land restitution courts following the dismantling of Apartheid. Of the 30,000 hectares they received they have converted 12,000 hectares to game reserve. This is in the process of being restocked with game and accommodation upgraded so they can accept guests and make money from tourism.The highlight today however was walking into see the rhino. I have seen many rhino in the past but have never been on foot up close, you truly understand how big they are when you are crouched in the grass with three large males about 25 metres away. It was quite a sensation especially when you suddenly realise they just got your scent and look your way. What a rush I can tell you. It does show how vulnerable they are to poachers. We walked up on a female with a sub adult male then tracked four White Rhino through a gully where they had spent most of the day to find them grazing in a clearing. 

We didn't get to see our rhino but did manage to see the one that Debbie adopted. Maybe tomorrow we might come across our one. Will try again at 6am. Off for a Braai now to talk about possible projects. It is amazing to be here seeing the work that is being done and where our money is helping.

Until later...
Peter Eastwood