Collaboration is essential in wildlife conservation. We recognize this importance, which is why our partnership with the Metapopulation Initiative, alongside the University of Pretoria, Wewild Africa, and Andrew Malcolm Films—takes center stage in today’s update.

The location is the Rietvlei Nature Reserve, a place we have been involved with for many years. Today, we are moving a young cheetah cub to a new reserve in the Lowveld. This relocation is part of the broader Metapopulation Initiative, which aims to maintain genetic diversity among cheetah populations across Southern Africa. By transferring these animals between fenced reserves, the initiative helps prevent inbreeding and supports robust, genetically diverse populations.

The success of this project relied heavily on the continuous involvement of the Faculty of Veterinary Science at the University of Pretoria, including knowledgeable wildlife veterinarians Dr. Jacques O’Dell, Dr. Bart Gazendam, and their students. The team conducted comprehensive health evaluations, delivered necessary vaccinations, and collected significant research samples. Their expertise in safely darting and monitoring the cheetahs was crucial in ensuring the animals’ welfare throughout the relocation process.

Capturing conservation efforts is essential for raising awareness and garnering support. Andrew Malcolm, with his background in wildlife filmmaking, collaborates with us to document these moments. His work highlights the importance of these initiatives while also displaying the beauty and pressing need for wildlife conservation to a broader audience. 

Certainly, none of this progress would have been possible without the commitment of the safe space managers for cheetahs. We extend our sincere gratitude to Rietvlei Nature Reserve, managed by the City of Tshwane, which has demonstrated a steadfast dedication to cheetah conservation since the establishment of a breeding population in 2014. The recent relocation of five offspring, born to Njozi—a cheetah relocated from the Garden Route Game Lodge—represents a significant accomplishment in their conservation efforts.