URGENT NEED FOR FEED
Rustenburg – What was once a lush and serene retreat in the Magaliesberg has been left scorched after a devastating fire consumed nearly two-thirds of the Kgaswane Nature Reserve. Acting reserve manager, Emelang Malefo, has confirmed that the fire, sparked by ritual activities involving candles, has destroyed approximately 66% of the park.
“A ritual fire ignited on Wednesday, 25 September 2024, has consumed around 3,000 hectares of the reserve,” explained Malefo. The fire, which started near Bosbok Kloof, was fuelled by strong winds, causing flames to spread rapidly across the reserve. Despite efforts to bring it under control, it flared up again due to the high Fire Danger Index and adverse weather conditions, ravaging the area further.
While the destruction has been vast, there has been some relief in the aftermath. “Fortunately, no animals were seriously hurt except for a zebra that had to be humanely euthanised,” Malefo added.
However, the loss of grazing land has created a new challenge. Most of the feeding grounds for the reserve’s animals have been destroyed, leaving wildlife in urgent need of food. Malefo urgently appeals to the public for assistance. “If people want to help, we need dry lucerne to feed the animals.”
The Kgaswane Nature Reserve, spanning over 5,000 hectares, is home to various wildlife, including antelope, jackals, waterbuck, and over 115 bird species. The destruction of the reserve is a tragic blow to both the environment and the community, as it is a cherished destination known for its natural beauty and wildlife diversity.
Despite the devastation, there is hope, thanks to the generosity of the community. On Tuesday, 8 October 2024, Grootbos Voerkrale donated 36,900 kg of silage to the reserve, a much-needed lifeline for the hungry animals. In Touch Therapy Equine also contributed three bales of grass, with founder Karen Spies expressing her gratitude for the opportunity to help. “What a privilege to show compassion to the animals and assist in times of emergency,” Spies remarked. Labucon Resources responded to Droogtehulp’s plea and provided one of their trucks to transport the feed.
While the fire has taken a devastating toll, the reserve remains open to visitors from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily, as efforts to rebuild continue. Malefo and her team are dedicated to restoring Kgaswane, but they need help from the public.
For those wishing to contribute, donations can be made to the Pilanesberg Wildlife Trust. Monetary contributions will help provide the animals with much-needed feed while the reserve works to recover from this disaster.
Bank details:
Pilanesberg Wildlife Trust
FNB | Account Number: 62031121255
Reference: Kgaswane Fire
The recovery of the reserve will take time, but with community support, there is hope that Kgaswane will once again flourish. For more information or to find out how you can help, contact the Kgaswane Nature Reserve on 014 533 0808 or the Pilanesberg Wildlife Trust on 014 555 1600.
