Pretoria, South Africa – South Africa recorded a 16% decrease in rhino poaching in 2024, with 420 rhinos killed compared to 499 in 2023, according to government data released by Environment Minister Dion George.

Minister George reported that 320 rhinos were poached on state properties, while 100 were killed on private land. The decline has been partly credited to a dehorning program in KwaZulu-Natal, a region heavily targeted by poachers.

However, despite the overall decline, there is concern over a rise in poaching at Kruger National Park, where 88 rhinos were poached in 2024, up from 78 in 2023. The park’s vast and remote terrain continues to pose significant challenges for law enforcement.

In response, the government has intensified anti-poaching measures, including lie-detector tests for staff working in high-risk areas like Kruger and Hluhluwe-iMfolozi parks. These efforts aim to combat corruption and inside involvement in poaching networks.

Source: sputnikafrica