EASTERN CAPE, SOUTH AFRICA (August 1, 2024) — The Global Humane Conservation Fund of Africa (GH-CFA), a program under Global Humane, announced the installation and operation of a state-of-the-art, AI-enabled rhino protection system on several Southern White Rhinos in cooperation with Founders Lodge by Mantis in South Africa. This initiative was achieved with the support of the Wilderness Foundation Africa and the Busch Gardens Conservation Fund.
The solar-powered devices provide real-time alerts though algorithms which have been optimized over several years. When abnormal behavior is detected, an alert with the exact GPS location is sent to the control room. This enables fast and accurate response by rangers who can quickly find the rhinos in potential danger and protect them from poaching threats. Additionally, the devices provide valuable management and ecological data. This AI Rhino Protection system was developed by the conservation company Rouxcel Technology.
“By merging cutting-edge technology with tried-and-tested wildlife protection methods, we’re elevating the safety of rhinos within protected areas,” said Taryn Gillson, Global Humane Regional Director, Africa.
Since 2007, poaching has surged, fueled by sophisticated criminal networks. Despite international bans dating back to 1977, the illicit trade in rhino horn persists and relentless agricultural expansion continues to erode rhino habitats, fracturing their territories and threatening their survival. The southern white rhino is considered near threatened, with just over 10,000 individuals remaining in South Africa.
Across the continent, GH-CFA is spearheading a range of rhino conservation initiatives. From expanding rhino rangelands to forging partnerships with local communities, GH-CFA is pioneering novel approaches to ensure a future where these majestic animals thrive.
GH-CFA will also use this initiative to gain familiarity with the AI System and assess its potential future use in connection with further rhino conservation efforts across various sites.
A video overview of the initiative is available here.
About the Global Humane Conservation Fund of Africa:
The Global Humane Conservation Fund of Africa (GH-CFA), an initiative under Global Humane, is deeply committed to the preservation and protection of Africa’s wildlife and wilderness areas. As the international brand of American Humane, the oldest national animal welfare organization in the United States, Global Humane’s mission resonates with a legacy of nearly 150 years of pioneering efforts. Based in South Africa, GH-CFA focuses on conserving, rewilding, and safeguarding Africa’s diverse ecosystems and wildlife. Through our strategic initiatives – Space for Species, Wildlife & Biodiversity, and Conservation for Communities – we strive to create safe habitats, enhance genetic diversity, and promote the interconnectedness of all species. For more information, please visit www.GlobalHumane.africa, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and subscribe to our channel on YouTube for the latest breaking news and features about the animals with whom we share our Earth.
About Global Humane:
Global Humane is the international brand of American Humane, which is the United States’ first national humane organization and the world’s largest certifier of animal welfare, helping to verify the humane treatment of more than one billion animals across the globe each year. Founded in 1877, American Humane has been First to Serve™ the cause of animals and for 145 years has been at the forefront of virtually every major advance in the humane movement. For more information or to support our lifesaving work, please visit www.AmericanHumane.org, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and subscribe to our channel on YouTube for the latest breaking news and features about the animals with whom we share our Earth.