EPI-USE Labs and G3G hosted the inaugural #Walk4ERP event in Pretoria, South Africa on on Mandela Day, 18 July. The 3km walk raised awareness and funds for the ERP K9 Unit, a team of highly trained dogs on the frontlines of anti-poaching efforts across Southern Africa. Thanks to the generosity of participants, we were able to raise R7,000 towards the development of a much-needed dog training facility for the ERP K9 Unit. These funds will assist ERP.ngo in expanding the capacity and reach of their conservation efforts through specialist dog training and handler support.
On Friday18 July, the spirit of Mandela Day came alive at the Pretoria Old Boys Club in South Africa, as EPI-USE Labs and G3G hosted the inaugural #Walk4ERP event. We extended the invitation to Group Elephant colleagues and community members to participate in a 3km walk, not only for fun, but to raise awareness and funds for the ERP K9 Unit, a team of highly trained dogs on the frontlines of anti-poaching efforts across Southern Africa.
#Walk4ERP was a well-supported and meaningful way for our colleagues and broader community to contribute towards an impactful cause.
Events like this not only raise awareness about the challenges of wildlife conservation, but also show how individuals can play a direct role in supporting these initiatives.
Chené Ferriera, Marketing at EPI-USE Labs
Thanks to the generosity of participants, we were able to raise R7,000 towards the development of a much-needed dog training facility for the ERP K9 Unit. These funds will assist ERP.ngo in expanding the capacity and reach of their conservation efforts through specialist dog training and handler support.
The ERP K9 Unit, a project that forms part of the larger Elephants, Rhinos & People (ERP) programme, consists of highly skilled Belgian Malinois dogs, trained in a range of anti-poaching disciplines, including:
- Tracking human scent to help intercept illegal hunters in protected areas
- Detection work focused on identifying contraband such as rhino horn, ammunition, and firearms
- Protection capabilities, including bite work and alert responses, to support ground teams in real-time scenarios
An exciting on-site demonstration after the walk allowed attendees to witness the capabilities of the K9 Unit first-hand. From locating ammunition in a parked vehicle to demonstrating human scent detection, the showcase offered a glimpse into the "superpowers" these dogs have, and the important role they play in wildlife conservation.
Thank you to everyone who attended and supported the event. The funds raised will go directly toward strengthening the operational capabilities of the ERP K9 Unit, enabling them to continue protecting South Africa’s threatened species.
For more information about the K9 projects or to contribute, visit: https://www.erp.ngo/project-types#k9-projects