At this time of extreme earth events, I’m writing to you from the field, back in communication after several days without Wi-Fi or any remote access, as we begin assessing the full extent of the flooding across our regions.

You may have heard that this part of the world has experienced unprecedented floods over the past two weeks, and we are now facing the devastating aftermath. Frankly, it is a State of Emergency.

I’ve lived through bushveld floods before, but this was in another league entirely. Every single vehicle, including earth-moving machines, TLBs and large tractors, has become immovably stuck in metres of thick mud. Critical infrastructure has been damaged, rendered non-functional, or completely washed away, making even the most basic logistics extraordinarily challenging.

Despite these obstacles, our priority has remained the safety of the animals and the people who protect them. Almost all our wild-roaming lions are accounted for. Two, however, were discovered deep within neighbouring territories and we are currently assessing the feasibility of aerial rescue operations to ensure their safe return.

I’ve recorded short videos to give you a  clearer sense of what the team is facing on the ground and what the days ahead  may require.

Through it all, I am deeply moved by the resilience of our team. Time and again they have shown what it truly means to live our LionHearted philosophy, meeting adversity with courage, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to protection and care for our environment.

We are working with Nature to find the solutions. As leaders in the field on the conservation frontline for harmonious coexistence, I have no doubt that we will emerge stronger through this challenge and help chart the way forward.

If, as you read this, you feel called to support the work unfolding here, whether practically or financially, please know that every contribution, no matter the size, helps us navigate this critical period with greater stability and speed.