Investing in Africa’s Frontline Protectors – How Kaufmann’s K9 Support is Helping the SAWC Anti-Poaching Unit Do What They Do Best!

When you invest in hands-on work that protects what matters most, real change happens.

That’s what the Kaufmann K9 Sponsorship Program set out to do — and today, we’re proud to share the results of that commitment alongside our partners at the Southern African Wildlife College (SAWC).

Over the past year, with the help of funds generated from the Kaufmann K9 Program, the College has completed the full rebuild of their K9 Unit kennels and constructed a new exercise and whelping facility, creating a world-class environment for the brave working dogs that play a crucial role in anti-poaching and wildlife protection across the Greater Kruger landscape.

The upgrades were carefully sequenced alongside other major infrastructure projects to ensure the dogs’ safety and well-being throughout the process. Each step — from rebuilding and galvanising kennels to adding new shaded exercise zones and a biosecure whelping area — was designed to improve animal welfare, hygiene, and handler efficiency.

The impact has been profound:

• The dogs now train and rest in safe, corrosion-resistant kennels that meet modern welfare standards.
• Exercise and socialisation zones have boosted their physical fitness and mental wellbeing.
• The new whelping facility provides a secure, temperature-controlled space for mothers and pups, helping ensure stronger, healthier litters.
• Handlers work in improved conditions that enhance morale and operational readiness.

Together, these upgrades mean the College can continue to train and deploy world-class canine teams to the frontlines of conservation — strengthening the fight against wildlife crime.

The SAWC team expressed their sincere gratitude to Kaufmann, noting that the partnership has helped create “a lasting investment in Africa’s frontline conservation efforts.”

At Kaufmann, we believe in putting support into action — in this case, building real infrastructure that helps protect South Africa’s wild heritage. Every brick laid, every kennel rebuilt, and every tail wagging in those new enclosures stands as proof of what can be achieved when hands-on people come together for a greater cause.

Live hands-on. Protect what matters.

Learn more about the K9 Sponsorship Program and the Southern African Wildlife College’s incredible work here:
www.sawc.org.za

And a big thank you to our consumers, for every purchase of Kaufmann products, which contributes towards this noble and worthy cause!