On 28 October 2023, South Africa rejoiced as Siya Kolisi led the Springboks to a thrilling victory at the Stade de France. This win was more than just a rugby triumph; it embodied the essence of ‘Ubuntu’ – a belief in a universal bond of sharing connecting all humanity. This concept, meaning ‘I am because we are,’ resonated across the nation, celebrating not only a sports victory, but also a profound sense of unity and solidarity.
Parallel to this sporting success, a heartwarming event at the Cango Wildlife Ranch and Conservation Centre reinforced this spirit of Ubuntu. A cheetah named Ubuntu, in a symbolic nod to the national mood, gave birth to three healthy cubs. This occasion was more than a delightful coincidence; it signified a vital contribution to conservation efforts.
The cubs’ birth is significant in the context of wildlife preservation.
Facing threats like climate change and habitat destruction, their healthy and genetically diverse lineage is crucial for cheetah conservation. Initially nurtured by their mother, these cubs were later moved to a specialized care centre, where they received round-the-clock attention. This approach has resulted in an impressive 90% survival rate, far exceeding the 30% typical in the wild.
This achievement aligns with the philosophy of the World Association of Zoos and Aquaria (WAZA), to which the Cango Wildlife Ranch belongs. Their focus on ethical breeding practices and species management, particularly for vulnerable and endangered species, is critical in today’s environmental landscape.
The bond between the cheetahs and their caretakers, like Riette Koortzen, highlights the dedication and empathy at the heart of this conservation work. Riette’s careful monitoring and the trust she has built with Ubuntu illustrate the positive impact of human intervention in wildlife care.
In a fitting tribute to the national rugby hero Siya Kolisi, the strongest of Ubuntu’s cubs was named ‘Siya.’ This gesture symbolizes the qualities of leadership, hope, and unity that Kolisi represents, paralleling the conservation efforts at the ranch. Siya’s siblings, Yuna and Yoshi, embody kindness and respect, mirroring the values of the champion Springbok team.
The story culminated with Hennie Baartman, an executive member of Rugby South Africa, visiting the ranch with the Rugby World Cup trophy. This celebratory moment united the successes of conservation and rugby, highlighting the shared journey of overcoming challenges.
The Cango Wildlife Ranch’s mission extends beyond animal care; it aims to educate and inspire. The parallel stories of the Springboks and the cheetah cubs underline a shared responsibility for preserving our world.
This story of unity, embodied in the concept of Ubuntu, serves as a powerful reminder: our collective well-being hinges on the understanding that ‘I am because we are.’
