SIYAFUNDA
wildlife and
conservation
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“People are not going to care about animal conservation unless they think animals are worthwhile.” – Sir David Attenborough
"Come Discover Their Worth"
"To Learn and To Teach" (“Siyafunda” in Zulu)
At Siyafunda Wildlife and Conservation, these guiding principles form the foundation of our mission and drive every project we undertake. Our goal is to deepen our understanding of wildlife and the ecosystems in which they thrive — and to share this knowledge with everyone who joins us on our Siyafunda projects.
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Siyafunda was founded in 2004 to support the Greater Makalali Nature Reserve in monitoring its elephant population as part of the world’s longest-running elephant contraception program. Over time, our work has expanded to include the monitoring of all Big Five species, as well as other key predators.
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Our projects are designed to provide dedicated support to our conservation partners. By collecting and analyzing specific data, we help reserves make informed decisions that promote the health and welfare of their wildlife. Siyafunda offers a unique and professional opportunity for individuals to engage with and contribute to the protection of these remarkable natural environments.
Our Mission
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Siyafunda is committed to
Being the first choice for conservation volunteers from around the world.
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Offering the best wildlife monitoring and sustainable support for game reserves,
research and conservation projects in South Africa.
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Furthering knowledge and awareness by hosting researchers and interns from educational affiliations, while supporting and informing local communities.
BUFFALO NUMBERS HAVE INCREASED FROM 52 TO 220.
3 HERDS RELEASED BETWEEN 2019 & 2023
57 ELEPHANTS IN THE RESERVE IN 2023
3 CHEETAH ON ROUTE FROM MALAWI
TO MAKALALI 2024
29 LIONS ON THE RESERVE
28 LEOPARDS ON THE RESERVE
PHOTOGRAPHS
by Paul Cheetham,
Michele Borboni,
Camilla Roses and
Claire Debauve.
