Counter-poaching operations are supported by an EMCT manager and an Operations Room administrator as well as an EMCT vehicle. These operations are supported by a donor-funded helicopter which all continue to ensure the maintaining of high standards.

Celebrating 60 years of conservation in mid 2020, Maputo Special Reserve (MSR) has seen over 4,964 animals translocated since 2001. For the first time in 30 years, eland are roaming the Reserve again.

However, the area bordering the Reserve is quite densely populated and unfortunately there has been a significant spike in Human Wildlife Conflict with a serious incident recorded in May resulting in both human and elephant fatalities.

To attempt to alleviate this, Elephant Human Conflict kits are currently being trialled. The kit comprises rope, reflective tape, flashlight and a hooter which enables communities to make sensory distractions during day or night to chase elephants away.

Preliminary findings show that reflectors and spotlights have been effective in repelling elephants resulting in less inroads near the farms, and no crops damaged during the study period. The creosote technique proved to be effective in preventing the passage of elephants along the corridors to which it was applied. Studies will continue over a longer duration - "Evaluation of the new Mitigation Methods for Human Elephant Conflict." M. Bastise and H. Chiponde. Maputo, June 2020. MSR and Tembe Elephant Park in South Africa continue their cross-border information-sharing meetings on a regular basis.

Many of the senior personnel and field rangers have undergone training in basic Human Rights through SAWC, with the remainder to be completed once COVID-19 restrictions are lifted.

Upgrades to the house for EMCT personnel have been completed.

Despite the Reserve being currently closed to the public due to COVID-19, and operating at a reduced capacity with half the ranger unit taking leave to reduce travel exposure to the pandemic, regular patrols are still being conducted and no key species have been poached in 2020 to date.