By Kwanele Dhladhla
The nation has been shattered by the death of Big Game Parks Senior Game Ranger, Sergeant Siyabonga Magongo, who was gored and killed by a Rhino on Saturday evening.
The Kingdom of Eswatini’s Big Game Parks (BGP) announced the tragic news that the senior game ranger was killed by the rhino while walking on foot at the Mkhaya Game reserve where he was based.
BGP disclosed that attempts were still underway to locate the rhino. It was mentioned that Magongo’s untimely death at the age of 44, was a massive blow in every respect to those who had worked and lived with him for the cause of Eswatini’s nature conservation over the past 22 years.
He was described as a courageous man, a determined team trainer and a humble leader, who displayed exceptional commitment and excelled at everything he did.
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BGP said Magongo was hugely respected by his colleagues and trainers within and beyond the parks.
“A national loss, he will be sorely missed by his teams and collaborating law enforcement agencies, and especially in BGPs conservation mission moving forward.
We are deeply grateful to the Magongo family for the privilege of having shared his time so generously with us. BGP’s deepest thoughts are with his family and colleagues at this very difficult time.
We salute you Nkhosi, Magongo. Few men will ever be made of your metal,” read the BGP statement in part.
Condolences also poured in from members of the public on the Mkhaya Game Reserve’s official Facebook page.
Siphiwo Dlamini said; “What a very unfortunate unexpected incident, may his soul rest in peace. I know wild animals are wild, but what an aggressive rhino that does not know how much it has robbed us. Sorry Big game parks.”
Melusi Dlamini, who previously served at the BGP communications department, thanked Magongo for excellent service.
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“Thank you for your service. Condolences to his family and the entire conservation team,” Dlamini said.
Pamela O’Cuneen said it was disturbing to learn that Magongo passed on after a rhino attack but recommended that the rhino should not be killed.
“Very sad news. But the rhino should not be killed,” she said.
Peter Carr said Magongo was a remarkable and inspirational person who touched the lives of so many.
“It is a huge loss to so many to have lost him at such a young age. May he rest in peace, knowing the impact he made on all of us,” he said.
