At Deltamune, our core mission centres on advancing animal health and food security across Africa through innovative, science-driven solutions. While our primary focus remains on food-producing animals, we’re proud to lend our expertise to conservation initiatives that align with our values, like the vital work being done by the Mabula Ground Hornbill Project.
The Mabula Ground Hornbill Project is a long-standing conservation programme aimed at safeguarding one of South Africa’s iconic yet endangered bird species, the Southern Ground Hornbill (Bucorvus leadbeateri). With fewer than 1,500 individuals remaining in the country, the species faces multiple threats including habitat loss, secondary poisoning, and electrocution. Conservation breeding and managed reintroduction efforts are central to reversing their decline.
Science in the Service of Biodiversity
Deltamune contributes to the project by supplying Newcastle disease (NCD) vaccines, an essential component in protecting the health of susceptible species under the project’s care. Disease prevention is a crucial aspect of conservation management, particularly for captive breeding and reintroduction efforts.
In addition to providing vaccines, we offer technical guidance and training to the project team. This includes specialised support in the handling and characterisation of eggs which is a critical step in the success of the project’s conservation breeding programme. Our team’s practical input helps ensure that protocols are grounded in the latest veterinary science, with a focus on both safety and success.
Recognition and Collaboration
Deltamune is proud to formally support the Mabula Ground Hornbill Project as part of our long-standing commitment to conservation and biodiversity. Our contribution is reflected in the inclusion of Deltamune vaccines in the project’s published standard operating protocols. This support was recently acknowledged through an official letter from Dr Lucy Kemp, Project Manager, and is also recognised in their presentations and public materials, where our logo appears as a valued project partner.This collaboration reflects our belief that biotechnology has a powerful role to play, not only in agriculture, but in conserving the natural world. It’s a partnership that speaks to the versatility of our solutions and the breadth of our impact.
To learn more about the Mabula Ground Hornbill Project, visit https://ground-hornbill.org.za