The Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre (HESC) is delighted to announce a new partnership with the Black Mamba Anti-Poaching Unit, the first majority female anti-poaching unit in South Africa.

Founded in 2013 by Transfrontier Africa NPC, the Black Mamba Anti-Poaching unit was formed to protect the Olifants West Region of Balule Nature Reserve.
Within the first year of operation the Black Mambas were invited to expand into other regions, and now protect all boundaries of the 52,000ha Balule Nature Reserve, which forms part of the Greater Kruger National Park.
Two Black Mambas will join our anti-poaching team, based at HESC. These two ladies will work hand in hand with our current K9 unit to put more boots (and paws), on the ground at HESC, to further strengthen the security of the wildlife in our care.
The partnership will create an opportunity to learn from each other, as we join forces not only to protect, but to also focus on conservation and the sustainability of endangered species.

“There is a natural synergy between us, as both HESC and the Black Mamba’s are driven by like-minded women, passionate about wildlife, and our communities.”; says Adine Roode, Director at HESC.
Both parties are committed to protecting our environment, but also in taking it a step further, by educating and becoming respected role models in their local communities. The HESC team has likewise been actively involved in the surrounding areas and schools, for many years. The Black Mambas (consisting of 32 young women and one man), strive to create an understanding  in communities, that the benefits of rhino conservation are far greater than the benefits of poaching – an objective shared by both parties.
“Transfrontier Africa and the Black Mambas are very excited to be able to partner with HESC and lend assistance in a small way. HESC has always carried our support and has never hesitated to assist us with orphaned and injured animals, that need treatment and rehabilitation. We see this as a wonderful opportunity to strengthen our relationship with HESC, and offer something small in return for all the effort and dedication that they have shown to the animals in need.”; says Black Mamba Anti-Poaching Unit Founder, Craig Spencer.
HESC is very optimistic about this new partnership, says Lente Roode, founding Director of HESC. “We are confident that this initiative will create a firm and lasting foundation to further the conservation goals of both ourselves and the Black Mambas, contribute to eradicating poaching and ensure that our animals and our staff remain protected and safe at all times,” she added.
Should you have any queries or would like further information, please email:
pr@cheetahcentre.co.za