conservation

In 2007, painfully aware of the plight of the Western Black and Northern White Rhino, Lawrence conducted an expedition into the jungles of the Democratic Republic of Congo to meet with the leaders of the Ugandan rebel group, the Lords Resistance Army (LRA). He addressed the entire military high command on the need for peace. He was the first outsider to be granted permission to enter their secret bases, and reinforced the agreements reached in Juba, Southern Sudan, with the political wing of the LRA to protect the critically endangered Northern White Rhino and Congo Pygmy Giraffe, thus granting indemnity to conservationists and game rangers in the war zone. This precedent was submitted as an official document to the United Nations sponsored Peace Talks.

No stranger to barging into volatile situations, Lawrence has written his third book “The Last Rhinos” based on his efforts to save a species headed for extinction. The book has been described as: “Peopled with unforgettable characters, from the local witchdoctor to eccentric conservationist, Brendan. It is sometimes funny, sometimes moving, but always gripping.”

Lawrence Anthony will be hosting a Gala Dinner and Fundraising Event at the ICC in Durban on the 29th March, where pre-release copies of his exciting new book will be available. But more importantly the evening is to raise international awareness of the seriousness of rhino poaching. It is an opportunity for individuals and coporates to show their support and contribute towards the solution. President Zuma will open the event, attended by international personalities.

In 2007 Lawrence published his first book, ‘Babylon’s Ark’, a tale of selfless courage and humanity whilst rescuing the animals of the Baghdad Zoo in war-torn Iraq. Hollywood’s Beacon Pictures will produce the movie which will be filmed in South Africa and Morocco. It follows Lawrence crossing the border from Kuwait a week after the US led invasion. Half of the 1,000 animals had already died, but after engaging mercenaries to battle insurgents and poachers, they managed to persuade the zoo staff to return. Together with help of other locals they protected the remaining animals. Lawrence stayed in Baghdad for six months. The zoo was re-opened in 2003, with an estimated $10 - $15 million dollars being invested.

When I questioned the feasibility of spending such an enormous amount on the zoo, considering the state of the country, Lawrence explained that over 1.5 million people had visited there last year.

“The people love it. It’s the only green area in the city, set in a beautiful park. It’s very calming during these troubled times,” he continued.

My second question was: Who would you like to play ‘you’ in the movie. No great surprises that Brad Pitt and Liam Neeson were top choice!

As Mathew Choate, editor SA the Goodnews, said: “What Anthony has started is nothing short of incredible. He is one of those rare people who do not recognise their own magnanimity and influence. He has begun so much and led the world in a new direction, undaunted by the challenges he faces. We have one of the world's greatest conservation ambassadors residing in our borders, and we should be getting to know him better, because men like him are hard to find, especially when the future of the world is at stake”. 

FACTS:

• Lawrence is married to Francoise and lives on Thula Thula Game Reserve in Zululand. 

• He is the founder of The Earth Organisation, a privately registered, independent, international conservation and environmental group with a strong scientific orientation.

• He is a member of the esteemed Explorers Club of New York

• And a member of the National Council of the South African Association for the Advancement of Science, SA’s oldest scientific association.

• ‘Bablyon’s Ark’ won the Booklist Editor’s Choice Award and the French 28th Prix Litteraire 30 Millions d’Amis Literary Award.

• His second book, ‘The Elephant Whisperer’ was an international Best Seller.

Visit:  www.lawrenceanthony.co.za

Contact events@sportsfaneventing.com for tickets to the Gala Dinner on the 29th March 2012.

“I have never understood the saying ‘to think outside the box’. Why would anyone sit inside a box and then think outside of it? Rather just get out of the box!” – Lawrence Anthony.