African Wildlife & Environment Issue 82

FAUNA, FLORA & WILDLIFE

Anton Mzimba on Patrol with TPNR Team (Global Conseravtion Corps)

Anton Mzimba with Horns (Global Conservation Corps, photo Nick Smith)

intense poaching threat on the rhino population, we depended heavily on the integrity and professionalism of the counter-poaching team. These field rangers need to have a passion for what they are doing, because this is not a normal run-of-the-mill job. Anton epitomised what qualities a good field ranger needed, and he was not someone that stood back and expected others to do the work. He led from the front, setting the example for his team to follow. I was shown around the reserve by Anton, and we very soon developed a mutual respect when he saw that he could come to me with anything that was troubling him or just to ask for advice.This was a reciprocal arrangement, because many times I would go to him for advice or get his opinion on how to solve a problem. It was because of this very close relationship, and the good qualities that were so evident in his life, that I nominated Anton for the ‘Best Field

Anton with Bryan after winning the 'Best field Ranger' at the Rhino Conservation Awards

Ranger’ award at the Rhino Conservation Awards, held at Monte Casino in Johannesburg. I had been a member of the Game Rangers Association of Africa (GRAA) for many years and felt moved to nominate him. These awards are hosted annually in collaboration with the GRAA and are made possible

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