28/12/2024
LIMKOKWING STUDENTS CHAMPION WILDLIFE CONSERVATION AT KHUTSE GAME RESERVE
By: Ort Masilo
The 2024 Khutse Game Reserve trip began chaotically, with plans failing right from the start. However, the team ultimately reached their destination: the iconic Khutse Game Reserve, often referred to as the "mother land of animal predators." Nestled on the edge of the Central Kalahari Game Reserve, Khutse became the backdrop for a memorable 15-day summer outreach organized by the Limkokwing Wildlife and Environmental Conservation Society (LWAECS).
Khutse Game Reserve is a critical habitat for various species, including giraffes, zebras, Impala's, elephants and predators like lions and cheetahs. However, it faces threats such as poaching and environmental degradation. The involvement of young conservationists, such as the Limkokwing students, plays a pivotal role in ensuring the reserve's ecological balance is maintained.
Located just 54 kilometers from the CKGR and about 130 kilometers from Letlhakeng Village, Khutse served as the Southern entrance to the Central Kalahari Game Reserve. Here, the LWAECS embarked on a range of activities that combined conservation work, community engagement, and environmental education.
Reflecting on the experience, one participant described it as eye-opening. “It was humbling to see the challenges faced by conservationists and wildlife. This camp reinforced our responsibility to protect the environment for future generations. From cleaning elephant ponds and going on game drives to community outreach and enjoying bonfires, this experience was incredible. From those game drive stucking in heavy sands of Khutse and we had to push the cruiser, following cultural nights and delicious meals that we self prepared, camping in the bush for 15 days was my first but it created memories that will last a lifetime, I wonder when is the next trip” said Tuelo Tladi, Lwaecs member.
One of the trip's significant challenges involved fixing the waterhol
