Shamwari Group Raise R1 Million For Rhino Conservation

 Shamwari Group has raised R1, 000, 000 (@ US$110,000) for the Wilderness Foundation’s Forever Wild Campaign, an initiative to help save rhinos throughout South Africa.

Each of the Shamwari Group properties – Shamwari Game Reserve situated in the Eastern Cape, Sanbona Wildlife Reserve just outside Cape Town, Jock Safari Lodge in the Kruger National Park and Nkomazi Game Reserve in Mpumalanga have over the last 12 months taken part in the Forever Wild campaign by offering guests a discounted rate if guests donated a minimum of R100 per person per night. Shamwari Group then donated R500 for every room night sold on this offer.

Shamwari Group General Manager Joe Cloete says: “We at the Shamwari Group are now more than ever committed to make a real difference in the fight against rhino poaching. The onslaught has gathered momentum if you compare the statistics since 2011. The numbers of rhino poached have increased by 40% year on year and to date the number for 2013 is at 88.

Along with our conservation partner, The Wilderness Foundation, we would like to extend our sincere appreciation to all our guests and agents who have contributed to the Forever Wild campaign. The campaign is a partnership with contributions coming from the public, agents and from The Shamwari Group. The funds are audited by Grant Thornton and handed over to The Wilderness Foundation where they are allocated to various projects to combat rhino poaching in South Africa. Jointly, we have now raised R1 million in 12 months towards the campaign. The battle is ongoing but we will not relent and with your help we can make a huge difference.”

The Wilderness Foundation Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Andrew Muir says: “The Wilderness Foundation and its Forever Wild Rhino Protection Initiative have been blown away by the generous support of the Shamwari Group and its guests. It is only through the combined efforts of government, corporates and the public that we can put an end to this crisis. The funds will go towards our numerous anti-poaching activities around South Africa, with a special focus on the Eastern Cape, including purchasing vital equipment, educating the public and training on-the-ground anti-poaching teams.”

Shamwari Group’s Forever Wild Offer has been an ongoing initiative since March 2012 and will continue until December 2013 with the 2013 reduced rate of R3, 000 per person per night by donating a minimum of R100 per person per night, valid at selected Shamwari Group game reserves – Jock Safari Lodge, April to July 2013, Shamwari Game Reserve and Sanbona Wildlife Reserve, May to September 2013 applicable to new bookings only.

If you still wish to book your safari that makes a difference please contact the Central Reservations team at reservations@shamwarigroup.com