North West Conservation Clubs

05/06/2026

A Befitting Farewell to a Park Ranger

On this World Environment Day, Borakalalo Nature Reserve bid farewell to one of its finest conservationists as he entered a well-deserved retirement, Mr Amos Nkoe.

His journey began in 1986—a journey marked by sacrifice, hard work, dedication, discipline and an unwavering commitment to conservation. Over the decades, he became more than a Park Ranger; he became a custodian of our natural heritage and a mentor to many who followed in his footsteps.

He was part of the pioneering team that helped establish the renowned Madikwe Game Reserve, contributing to the introduction of elephants and numerous other wildlife species. His passion and expertise also played a role in the introduction of lions into Pilanesberg National Park, helping shape some of South Africa's most celebrated conservation success stories.

Throughout his career, he remained a reservoir of environmental knowledge, generously sharing his wisdom and experience with colleagues, young rangers, students and visitors alike. His footprints are not only found on the trails and landscapes he protected but also in the lives of the many people he inspired.

As he closes this chapter, we celebrate a life dedicated to protecting wildlife, preserving ecosystems and serving future generations. His legacy will continue to live on in the thriving parks, the wildlife he helped conserve and the conservationists he mentored.

Thank you for your service, your leadership, and your lifelong commitment to nature. May your retirement be filled with good health, happiness and the satisfaction of knowing that you have made a lasting contribution to conservation in North West Parks & Tourism Board.

"The true measure of a conservationist is not only in the wildlife protected, but in the legacy left behind for future generations."

Tsamaya Sentle "Bro Tiger", we wish you good health and a great refirement Ntate Nkoe.

To 50 years of service 🥂

24/05/2026

The Silent Invasion Growing in Our Community

Many residents may have noticed a fast-spreading plant with colorful pink, yellow and orange flowers appearing along fences, roadsides, open spaces and even in home yards across Fafung village bordering Borakalalo Nature Reserve. While it may appear harmless and beautiful at first glance, this plant — known as Lantana camara — is actually one of the most dangerous invasive species affecting many communities in South Africa.

I am deeply concerned about this plant. It is rapidly spreading throughout our village and, if it has not already done so, it will soon spread to neighboring villages as well.

Originally introduced as an ornamental garden plant, Lantana camara has now become a major environmental threat due to its aggressive spread and ability to dominate large areas within a short period of time. It grows rapidly, survives harsh weather conditions and spreads easily through seeds carried by birds and animals.

The danger of this invasive species goes far beyond its appearance.

Firstly, the plant is toxic to livestock such as cattle, goats and sheep. Animals that consume large quantities of its leaves or berries may become seriously ill, affecting farming activities and livelihoods within rural communities. Children should also be discouraged from touching or eating the berries, as they can be harmful.

Secondly, the plant forms thick and dense bushes that create hiding places for dangerous animals such as snakes and rodents. In many areas, overgrown lantana bushes have contributed to unsafe surroundings, especially near homes, pathways and schools.

Another major concern is its destruction of indigenous vegetation. Lantana camara suppresses the growth of local plants by competing for sunlight, water and soil nutrients. Over time, this reduces biodiversity and damages the natural ecosystem that many communities depend on for grazing, medicinal plants and environmental balance.

The rapid spread of this plant is also a warning sign about land management and environmental awareness. Empty stands, neglected yards and roadside areas provide ideal conditions for invasive species to flourish. Without community action, the problem may continue to grow and become more difficult and expensive to control in future.

Community members are encouraged to:

-Remove young plants before they mature.
-Cut and uproot bushes safely and responsibly.
-Avoid allowing the plant to seed or spread further.
-Report severe infestations to local environmental or agricultural authorities.
-Participate in community clean-up and awareness campaigns.

Protecting our environment is a shared responsibility. What may seem like just another flowering bush today could become a serious environmental, agricultural and safety problem tomorrow. Through awareness, cooperation and early action, our communities can work together to stop the spread of this invasive species and protect the health, safety and beauty of our surroundings.

30/04/2026

Celebrating our Anchors.

Today we celebrate a man whose passion for conservation goes far beyond the uniform — Ranger Patrick Boitshwarelo Mothibi, a dedicated servant of the North West Parks & Tourism Board. We know how you always want what is best for "Setheo", as you call your employer.

Bro Pat, as he is affectionately known, has continuously motivated and inspired us at the North West Conservation Clubs to remain committed to environmental education and conservation awareness among our people, especially communities surrounding protected areas.

His dedication reminds us that conservation is not only about protecting wildlife, but also about empowering people with knowledge and responsibility toward nature.

What makes Bro Pat truly special is his consistency and willingness to always show up. Whether it is Rangers Day activities, environmental campaigns or community engagements during Camp Remmogo back when he was at Borakalalo Nature Reserve, he is always present, always supportive and always ready to serve with heart and humility.

His passion, leadership and commitment continue to inspire young conservationists to stand proud and protect the natural heritage entrusted to us.

We honour and appreciate you, Ranger Patrick Mothibi. May your work continue to touch lives, strengthen conservation efforts and inspire generations to come.

In every storm, you keep us grounded, and in every calm, you remind us of our strength. Today we celebrate you.

27/04/2026

Bojanala Platinum District Environmental Clubs Camp

Borakalalo Nature Reserve proudly hosted the Bojanala District Environmental Clubs Camp this past weekend. The interim district committee demonstrated remarkable leadership in successfully organising the entire camp.

The programme was insightful, educational and entertaining—creating a meaningful experience for all who attended. Despite the rain on Friday, the spirit and enthusiasm of the participants remained high and unwavering.

The support from the North West Parks & Tourism Board was exceptional and truly appreciated. It was also encouraging to see the presence and participation of Bojanala Platinum District Municipality officials, representatives from North West Dept of Economic Development, Environment Conservation & Tourism and environmental clubs from Dr Kenneth Kaunda District.

Overall, the camp was a resounding success, strengthening collaboration and commitment towards environmental awareness and youth development.

22/04/2026

Celebrating Earth Day.

Earth Day is more than a date on the calendar, it’s a reminder of our responsibility to protect the only home we have.

Celebrating Earth Day brings awareness. It pushes us to notice what we often overlook: polluted rivers, disappearing wildlife, changing climates and the everyday choices that contribute to these problems.


Awareness is powerful—because once people truly see, they begin to care.
It also inspires action. Earth Day encourages individuals and communities to do something, no matter how small—planting trees, cleaning up litter, conserving water, or simply changing habits. These actions may seem small, but when multiplied across millions of people, they create real impact.
Importantly, it builds a culture of responsibility.

When we celebrate Earth Day, we are teaching the next generation that caring for the environment is not optional, it is essential. We pass on values of respect, conservation and conscious living.
For those connected to nature—like rangers, conservationists and communities living close to the land—Earth Day carries even deeper meaning. It honors the work of protecting ecosystems and reminds us of the sacrifices made to preserve them.

At its core, Earth Day is about connection. It reconnects us to the earth, to each other, and to a shared future. Because protecting the planet is not just an environmental issue—it is about sustaining life, dignity and hope for generations to come.

Happy Earth day.

20/04/2026

A white tailed mongoose

I have to share this story.

I had visitors who wanted to meet me for whatever their reasons. They finally got the chance, and in the process, kept me up late into the night. But it was worth it. I’ve always wanted to visit Welgevonden and they assured me that visit is going to happen.

On the way back, as they dropped me off at home, something unexpected happened. They suddenly got excited, really excited about this small animal nearby.

Now me? I was irritated. That animal is no friend of mine. I don’t even know it properly, but I do know one thing, it has a taste for my chickens’ eggs.

Then they told me what it was: a White-tailed mongoose.
They spoke about it with admiration, saying it had been a long time since they’d last seen one. Meanwhile, I’m standing there thinking, this is the same thief that raids my coop.

Funny how perspectives differ. To them, it was a rare and exciting sighting. To me, it’s a quiet little troublemaker that visits under the cover of night.

Nature has its way of humbling us. What we celebrate in the wild sometimes becomes a nuisance at home. Let me tell you what my research tells me this mongoose:
Size: It’s the largest mongoose species
Appearance: Dark brown to black body with a long, bushy white tail (its most distinctive feature)
Face: Slightly pointed snout with small rounded ears
Behavior, mostly nocturnal — active at night
Typically solitary, not often seen in groups
Moves quietly and cautiously, making sightings rare.
Diet
Omnivorous, but prefers:

Insects (especially termites and beetles)
Small rodents
Birds and eggs
Occasionally fruit

Habitat
Found in: Bushveld
Savannas, Woodlands Often near water sources but adapts well to different environments, they can be spotted in protected areas like Borakalalo Nature Reserve, especially at night along quiet roads or near camps. Interesting fact
Unlike many mongooses that are social, the white-tailed mongoose is a true loner—it hunts, travels and rests alone most of the time.

Imagine I don't know this and people visit Borakalalo Nature Reserve just to see such.

20/04/2026

20/04/2026

Friends of Borakalalo and volunteers at work.

A big thank you to this weekend’s work party, you all did an amazing job, and it was phenomenal what was achieved, all whilst having lots of fun.

The roof at the lapa at Fish Eagle was replaced and it now looking amazing, the roof over the entrance has been propped up and supported and is no longer dangerous (a big job and special thanks to Andre and Roy for taking the lead on this), the area around the entrance has been cleaned up, doors painted and fixed, railing poles replaced and correctly bolted, burglar bars and gates were straightened, cleaned up and painted, paving bricks were put back into place, signs put up, and poles were creosoted.

It was amazing to see how everyone just got on with the work, including the park staff, amazing team work. The park’s staff were fully committed to supporting and getting involved in making a difference, and this is what made the weekend the success it was.

As usual the stories around the camp fire were fascinating to listen to, and I now know why hippo scatter their dung 😂.

There is still lots to do, but seeing what we achieved this weekend gives me lots of confidence that we can make a big difference.

Thanks everyone, looking forward to the next weekend together.

Regard
Mike Swait

09/04/2026

We remember your bravery