WSI Background
Save The Waterberg Rhino (STWR) was formed in 2012 following a rhino poaching incident on a property within the area, which in turn identified a general security crisis. STWR identified the need for increased security measures within the area to protect the communities and animals from the surge of criminal activities linked to poaching.
Rhino poaching is intertwined with organized crime syndicates and these in turn are interconnected to 4 major crimes globally, namely; illegal arms & munitions smuggling, human trafficking, drugs and illegal wildlife trade. Once members of these syndicates get established within an area, general crimes like theft, burglary, domestic violence, corruption, vehicle hijacking, farm attacks, murders and rape increase.
STWR identified that something had to be done so Waterberg Security Initiative (WSI) was formed. They started with an idea to get the whole community involved in a security initiative. A committee, elected by the local community was formed a year ago to head up this almost impossible task. WSI now has a functional committee of seven members. Our security plan is based on a model with proven success, currently in operation within the greater Waterberg area. The positive buy-in & support from businesses, tourism establishments, landowners & community members into the WSI strategy and plan clearly indicates the need and necessity for improved safety and security measures within the increasingly vulnerable farming communities of South Africa.
Achievements
In one year WSI achieved more than any other similar projects in the country.
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Operational since July 2017
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92 Members
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3 strategic container points as security bases/ accommodation for armed security
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12 cameras monitoring points that surround the WSI area
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2 armed reaction vehicles control the area constantly
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Registered NPC and PBO and able to give Tax Certificates for donations
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Member/ facilitator of Fire Protection Association
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Newsletters – 14 newsletters updating and informing the community have been sent out. These are provided to members and non-members and important source of information
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3 fundraising events have been organised. R403 230,00 was raised to supplement income.
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Member/ facilitator of Fire Protection Association
To run an organisation of this calibre, it is crucial that we are totally transparent in what we do as a committee and as WSI, we serve our members and community as a whole. WSI has been actively setting up structures and measures to safeguard our community and will continue to implement new and effective systems to prevent crime, save lives and protect the natural environment within our area. Finally, we can sincerely say that WSI fulfills its goal as a community initiative. The monthly funds we receive from our members are used directly to make our area a safe community.