SANParks Honorary Rangers Target R1.5 Million Through Comrades Marathon Charity Campaign
The KwaZulu-Natal Region of the SANParks Honorary Rangers (SHR) is seeking to raise R1.5 million through the Comrades Marathon Association's Amabeadibeadi Race4Charity campaign, matching the amount raised through the same initiative in 2025. This year's funds will support anti-poaching and conservation efforts across South Africa's national parks, with a particular focus on Kruger National Park, which suffered extensive damage to roads, bridges, tourist infrastructure, and K9 unit kennels following severe flooding earlier in 2026. Canine units are considered one of the most effective tools for tracking poachers and locating contraband wildlife products, making their restoration a priority for conservation teams on the ground.
Last year's R1.5 million was used to renovate anti-poaching facilities and K9 kennels, purchase two new Bloodhound tracking dogs for Kruger, and provide security cameras for Richtersveld National Park to protect endangered succulents. Equipment was also procured for Mountain Zebra National Park, and the K9 unit at Table Mountain National Park was upgraded. Funds additionally supported the Embrace National Project, which provides trauma management and life skills training for frontline rangers. Runners registered for the Comrades Marathon on 14 June 2026 can sign up for Race4Charity and nominate SHR as their charity at charity.comrades.com/events/comrades-marathon-2026, while supporters can sponsor runners directly or purchase Amabeadibeadi merchandise from SHR volunteer members.
Source: IOL News
