Mpumalanga Economic Development, Environment and Tourism MEC, Mr Norman Mokoena has joined the fray to denounce the continuing onslaught on the endangered rhino species. This follows the release of national figures on rhino poaching by the Minister of Water and Environmental Affairs, Ms Edna Molewa. It is reported that a total of 51 rhinos have been poached across the country since January 2011, with 33 being poached at the world renowned Kruger National Park and one (1) in the province.
MEC Mokoena says this regrettable and barbaric behaviour continues to rob Mpumalanga and South Africa off this rare and important species, and cannot continue unchallenged. “I call upon law enforcement agencies to deal very harsh with anyone caught poaching any of our rhinos, or any other endangered species. In terms of Chapter 2 of the Bill of Rights in our country’s Constitution, we have a collective responsibility to protect the fauna and the flora. This includes the rhino and other endangered species – we have an obligation towards future generations to protect these species at all costs,” added MEC Mokoena.
The MEC has also joined Minister Molewa to congratulate the members of the National Wildlife Crime Reaction Unit for continuing to arrest the suspected poachers, saying this is a sign of committed individuals who share government’s vision with regard to environmental preservation.
“Greed and the urge to make quick bucks at the expense of our rhinos will not be tolerated. The law must take its course and these cruel people should receive the harshest sentence ever given in South Africa,” concluded MEC Mokoena.
Enquiries:
Maakadikwe Selvy Mohlala
Tel: 013 766 413
Cell: 072 147 6149
Mohau Ramodibe
Tel: 013 766 4148
Cell: 082 771 9950
Source: Mpumalanga Department of Economic Development, Environment and Tourism
