Pilanesberg Boosts Anti-Poaching with Smart Radio Network

Pilanesberg Game Reserve, a renowned wildlife sanctuary in South Africa, has strengthened its conservation and anti-poaching capabilities with the rollout of a modern digital radio communication system. The upgrade, powered by Hytera’s advanced Digital Mobile Radio (DMR) technology and implemented by local partner Sentiv (formerly Altron Nexus), is already improving safety and coordination across the 56,000-hectare reserve.

The reserve, home to the Big Five and a haven for rare rhino species, previously relied on aging analog radios with limited coverage. Key areas of the mountainous park had no signal at all, exposing rangers to unnecessary risk during 24-hour operations in remote conditions.

With the installation of a Hytera HR106X DMR repeater, H-series radios equipped with GPS tracking, and the Smart Dispatch Plus platform, rangers now benefit from real-time location tracking, emergency response features, and near-total park coverage. A second repeater, linked via a microwave connection, ensures seamless communication across previously unreachable zones. 

Hytera’s system significantly enhances ranger safety through:

• Man Down Alerts that detect inactivity and send automatic emergency notifications with GPS coordinates.
• One-touch Emergency Buttons for instant location-based distress calls.
• Live GPS Tracking to monitor movements and dispatch help when needed.
• Online/Offline Visibility for the control room to monitor user status in real time.

“Reliable communication is the backbone of effective conservation and anti-poaching efforts,” said Steve Dell, Field Ecologist and Head of the Anti-Poaching Unit at Pilanesberg. “Whether it’s managing fires, protecting rhinos, or conducting aerial operations, the digital network has become an essential part of our operations. The system is easy to use and offers real-time visibility, which is especially important when staff are working in remote or dangerous areas.” 

The system also supports secure, encrypted communication and operational intelligence through:

• Voice and text messaging, voice recording, and movement analytics.
• Up to 256-bit encryption to safeguard critical data.
• Post-event reviews using recorded patrol routes, speed, and location history.

Franco Stronach, Head of Indirect Channel at Hytera South Africa, emphasized that the project reflects the company’s broader commitment to social responsibility.

“We don’t just deliver radios. We build long-term solutions that empower frontline conservationists,” he said. “Our work with Sentiv in Pilanesberg and other reserves like Kruger, Timbavati, and Sabi Sabi reflects Hytera’s role in supporting ecosystems that hold great environmental and cultural significance.”

Hytera also invests in sustained local capacity by conducting annual certified training sessions in South Africa. These sessions equip distributors and resellers with skills in system configuration and support. In turn, trained resellers offer user guidance and demonstrations to ensure the technology is used effectively on the ground. 

The transformation in communication infrastructure gives Pilanesberg rangers a crucial edge in the battle against poaching. From tracking rhinos to responding to emergencies, the new system ensures that every second counts.

“Anything can happen in remote areas,” Dell added. “This technology allows us to act immediately and with precision. It’s a vital step forward in securing our park and our natural heritage.”