Martial Rappo shares insights at the Cumbre Internacional de Fauna Silvestre 2025

“The main goal of an event like this is environmental education. We want to create awareness for conservation, to bring nature to those living in the city”, says Jesús Cinco, president of EcoSteps Civil Association and part of the organising team for the Summit. The message that resonated throughout the four-day event was clear: Education is a central component of conservation. 

For Martial, this message lies at the heart of Moholoholo’s philosophy. In 2024 alone, the South African rehabilitation centre hosted nearly 17,000 schoolchildren from local communities. For many of these children, the visits organised by Moholoholo are their first opportunity to learn about the wildlife that lives in their country. These visits help foster a sense of responsibility towards protecting wildlife that stays with children for years later. 

“There are still many misconceptions about African wildlife,” Martial explained.“Many people expect vast, untouched systems. The reality is very different. Even in South Africa, there is human encroachment, habitat loss, and human-wildlife conflict. Once visitors at the Summit heard this, they became very curious and engaged - it completely changed their perception of conservation in South Africa.”

He later shared practical advice with attending rehabilitation centres on how to integrate educational outreach and strengthen community bonds within their own work. “It was great to represent South Africa and share Moholoholo’s approach to rehabilitation and education”, says Martial. He also offered insights on strengthening animal welfare standards and connected with various wildlife professionals to exchange enrichment protocols.