Page 15 - UKZN Foundation AR 2024

DRIVING CONSERVATION FORWARD FOR
UKZN’S ECOSYSTEM RESEARCH
In a significant boost to wildlife and ecosystem conservation efforts, the Ford Wildlife Foundation (FWF) donated two Ford Ranger 4x4 double cab vehicles to the University of KwaZulu-Natal’s (UKZN) School of Life Sciences. Facilitated by the UKZN Foundation, these vehicles are empowering postgraduate students and researchers to delve into diverse ecosystems across South Africa – from hippos to fish, herps, birds and various other mammals.
The donation is part of Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa’s (FMCSA) commitment to environmental preservation in sub-Saharan Africa, with the vehicles playing a crucial role in research projects overseen by Professor Colleen Downs, South African Research Chair in Ecosystem Health and Biodiversity in KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape. These projects focus on the impact of land use changes, including urbanisation, on biodiversity. The vehicles’ off-road capabilities allow researchers to access remote and rugged areas, including nature reserves and protected spaces, ensuring comprehensive fieldwork that would otherwise be logistically challenging.
The timing of this donation aligns with the global celebration of World Rivers Day, which emphasises the need to conserve the world’s rivers. Freshwater ecosystems like rivers are critical to
River fish captured for research purposes.
One of the Ford Ranger 4x4 double cab vehicles that empowers postgraduate students and researchers to delve into diverse ecosystems across South Africa.
UKZN FOUNDATION ANNUAL REPORT 2024 13