Anti-Poaching
Proactive initiatives that prevent wildlife crime before it occurs, protecting rhino and other endangered species across the Western Cape.
Western Cape · South Africa Protecting Wildlife
Rhino Action Group (RAG) unites conservation partners through the Integrated Wildlife Zone (IWZ) structure across the Western Cape to protect endangered wildlife and the ecosystems they call home.
About us One Network. One Mission.
"Prevention is more powerful than reaction."
Rhino Action Group (RAG) is a registered Non-Profit Company and the coordinating body of the Western Cape’s Integrated Wildlife Zone (IWZ), dedicated to proactive and impactful conservation across the province.
The Integrated Wildlife Zone (IWZ) programme was formally established by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) and the Private sector in 2019. This programme is one of the key public-private partnership
initiatives aimed at implementing the National Integrated Strategy to Combat Wildlife Trafficking (NISCWIT), approved by the Cabinet in May 2023. Under this initiative, seven (7) IWZs have been established across the country.
In collaboration with rhino owners, conservation stakeholders, and government partners, RAG strengthens coordinated responses that deliver effective, long-term conservation outcomes.
Our Purpose Fighting wildlife crime.
In the face of escalating wildlife crime, our mission is simple but urgent — poaching and loss of endangered species, protect vulnerable ecosystems, and empower rhino owners and wildlife reserves with the systems, knowledge, and tools needed to safeguard our natural heritage.
What We Do Protecting Wildlife Across Landscapes.
As a key participant in South Africa’s National Integrated Wildlife Zones (IWZs), RAG coordinates conservation efforts, technology, and on-the-ground responses to protect wildlife before harm occurs.
© JOC- Mossel Bay
Conservation Networks
Strengthening collaboration and information sharing among rhino owners, reserves, conservation partners and law enforcement.
Early Detection
Leveraging technology to improve monitoring, data collection, and early detection of threats to vulnerable wildlife.
Community & Field Teams
Dedicated people with deep expertise in wildlife protection, conservation management, and community safety.
Why it Matters
“Poaching of endangered fauna & flora, threatens biodiversity, livelihoods, and regional security. Protecting these endangered species means protecting entire ecosystems – and the communities that depend on them. Proactive prevention is more effective, safer, and more sustainable than reaction alone.”
Monitoring Centre Our Operational Footprint.
Operating from the Joint Operation Centre in Mossel Bay, we work across multiple reserves and protected areas in close collaboration with conservation authorities, SAPS, law enforcement agencies and wildlife stakeholders to support effective wildlife protection.
Our Objectives What We Stand For.
United against wildlife crime, our work is guided by six core principles — each one rooted in the belief that nature, communities, and future generations deserve our very best efforts.
Protect Rhinos
Protect and conserve rhino populations in the Western Cape through proactive and reactive anti-poaching initiatives.
Strengthen Collaboration
Strengthen collaboration and information sharing among rhino owners, reserves, law enforcement, and conservation partners.
Safeguard Ecosystems
Safeguard critical ecosystems — including the Succulent Karoo, Renosterveld, and Fynbos biomes — for long-term biodiversity.
Sustainable Funding
Promote sustainable funding and partnerships that support ongoing conservation and protection programs.
Research & Technology
Leverage research and technology to improve monitoring, data collection, and early detection of threats to wildlife.
Transparency & Trust
Foster transparency, accountability, and shared responsibility in all operations to strengthen public trust.
Partners Strength in Collaboration
Our Impact Results That Matter on the Ground.
Operating since
2000
Rhino owners networked
0/7
Conservation partners
0+
Biomes safeguarded
0ha
Since 2016, RAG has played a key role in reducing wildlife crime in the Western Cape. Through coordinated efforts, information sharing, and early warning technology, we make a tangible difference on the ground.
Our dedicated team is a trusted conservation partner in the Western Cape, with expertise in wildlife protection, conservation management, and law enforcement liaison. Collective action saves lives.
Overview of rhino poaching statistics in South Africa
Rhinos lost to poaching each year, as released by the DFFE
83
2008
122
2009
333
2010
448
2011
668
2012
1 004
2013
1 215
2014
1 175
2015
1 056
2016
1 028
2017
769
2018
594
2019
394
2020
451
2021
448
2022
499
2023
420
2024
352
2025
Source: Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE)
View the figures as a table
| Year | Rhinos poached |
|---|---|
| 2008 | 83 |
| 2009 | 122 |
| 2010 | 333 |
| 2011 | 448 |
| 2012 | 668 |
| 2013 | 1 004 |
| 2014 | 1 215 |
| 2015 | 1 175 |
| 2016 | 1 056 |
| 2017 | 1 028 |
| 2018 | 769 |
| 2019 | 594 |
| 2020 | 394 |
| 2021 | 451 |
| 2022 | 448 |
| 2023 | 499 |
| 2024 | 420 |
| 2025 | 352 |
Play your part Support Rhino Action Group
How You Can Help Get In Make a Difference
Every Contribution, no matter the size, helps us protect South Africa’s wildlife and preserve our natural heritage for future generations.
Rhino Action Group (RAG) is a registered non-profit company dedicated to protecting South Africa’s wildlife through collaboration and innovative conservation solutions.
Your generosity enables us to continue our work where it is needed most.
Rhino Action Group is approved to issue Section 18A certificates for qualifying donations in terms of the South African Income Tax Act, allowing eligible donors to claim a tax deduction.
If you require a Section 18A certificate or would like to discuss corporate giving or partnership opportunities, please contact us.
Thank you for helping us protect South Africa’s wildlife.
Bank Details
To donate through direct deposit/EFT:
Account name: Rhino Action Group NPC
Bank: First National Bank (FNB)
Account Number: 62943477134
Branch Code: 210314
Account Type: Cheque (Business Acc)
Swift Code: FIRNZAJJ
Reference: Please use Donation or your Name/Company Name as the payment reference.
Get In Touch
As a key participant in South Africa’s National Integrated Wildlife Zones (IWZs), RAG coordinates conservation efforts, technology, and on-the-ground responses to protect wildlife before harm occurs.
Non-Profit Company
2022/350376/08
Public Benefit Organisation
930084699
Non-Profit Organisation
333-735
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