Bearded vulture conservation support

The bearded vulture (Gypaetus barbatus), a critically endangered species, inhabits the Maluti-Drakensberg Mountains of Lesotho and South Africa. With only around 350 individuals remaining, this genetically distinct population faces ongoing threats. Bearded vultures play a vital ecological role in keeping the environment free of carcass waste, helping prevent disease spread.

The Bearded Vulture Recovery Programme works to halt population decline and stabilise numbers over the next decade. The initiative, guided by the Bilateral Bearded Vulture Recovery Strategy and Action Plan, involves government agencies, NGOs, businesses and communities. However, it lacks sustainable funding and relies on donations, including those from the Rhino Peak Challenge and volunteer organisations.

Letšeng’s contribution

In December 2024, Letšeng made a donation through its CSRI programme to support vulture conservation in the Mokhotlong district. These funds were allocated for:

• completing a supplementary feeding site and hide at Molumong, including educational displays; and
• education and awareness initiatives to prevent harmful practices, such as stoning vulture chicks and nest destruction by herders.
• Letšeng is exploring further opportunities to support the programme.