A short history of uMkhuze Game Reserve…
The beginning…
Proclaimed in 1912, uMkhuze Game Reserve has endured more than a century of challenges to its survival. From early accusations of spreading Nagana (tstse fly) and waves of illegal settlements, to proposals for de-proclamation in favor of agriculture or land exchanges, the reserve has repeatedly stood on the brink of being lost. Each time, reason and public support prevailed, safeguarding uMkhuze as a sanctuary for wildlife and a cornerstone of conservation in South Africa.
The reserve’s story is one of resilience. Battles against poaching, livestock incursions, and sensitive land claims continue today, yet uMkhuze’s ecological and cultural value remains undeniable. Its diverse habitats and rich biodiversity make it a vital destination for tourism, offering long-term benefits to local communities that far outweigh short-term land use alternatives.
Preserving uMkhuze is not only about protecting wildlife—it is about ensuring that future generations inherit a thriving natural heritage and a sustainable source of community upliftment. The reserve has survived many threats; the challenge now is to ensure the final battle for its future is not lost.
Historic Milestones….
1912 (Proclamation): February 15, 1912. The 40,000-hectare area in northern Zululand was first protected to safeguard its diverse wildlife and natural pans.
1939 (De-proclamation): The reserve experienced a turbulent period when protection status was removed.
1954 (Re-proclamation): The land regained its protected status.
1958 (Opening to Public): The park officially opened its gates for tourism and visitors.
1990s–Present (Integration): The reserve was incorporated into the greater iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.
2013 (Big Five Status): Lions re-introduced to the game reserve.
Today….
Today, due to increases and arrogance of today’s poachers, uMkhuze Game Reserve has to rely on technology – from donors and sponsors – to track and monitor the animals across the reserve. Thermal imaging cameras, trail cams, Foxbat light aircraft, APU rangers, wildlife monitors and vets are on call and are all used to protect and maintain the wildlife within the reserve against the on-going poaching threat. Without their knowledge and financial contribution, the reserve would present a very different picture. Drone technology is evolving in leaps and bounds, and will definitely play an important role in curbing the scourge of poaching. We need your valuable contribution to save our wildlife heritage for our children, and our future generations.
The Future….
With the management and protection of the fauna and flora of uMkhuze Game Reserve in the hands of Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, and the resultant shortfall in funding, it has become a necessity to source outside funding to the game reserves running in South Africa. Fortunately, uMkhuze has been blessed with much-needed support from donors, sponsors, NGOs and of course the honorary officers. This makes it easier to maintain on a day-to-day basis, but this just closes a couple of gaps. We need much more funding and or donors to help us achieve our mandate – to keep the dooors open, now and forever. Please support us if you are able. Thank you.