Is It Really 2026 Already?

2026 has begun with excitement at Kukama Wildlife College as a new group of students steps into their wildlife and conservation journey. From welcoming our January intake to campus life in the Kalahari heat, sustainability projects, and upcoming field guiding courses, this February 2026 newsletter shares the latest developments, student experiences, and what lies ahead for the Kukama family.

The Heart Behind Kukama

None of this would be possible without our incredible team. Our staff are the heartbeat of Kukama – passionate, committed, and always giving more than what is required. We are deeply grateful for each person who pours their time, knowledge, and love into our students and into this special place.

Summer in the Kalahari

The summer heat has truly arrived, and the days have been warm and demanding. Training continues as normal, but the swimming pool has quickly become a favourite spot to cool down after long days in the field. These moments of rest and laughter are just as important as the lessons learned on foot.

Sustainability in Action – Our Vegetable Garden

Our vegetable garden continues to thrive and plays an important role on campus. It not only supplies fresh produce for our kitchen, but also teaches our students the value of patience, care, and working with the land. It is a beautiful reminder that conservation starts with everyday choices.

Exciting Developments Ahead

There is a lot happening behind the scenes at Kukama. We are working on important developments that we believe will benefit both the Kukama family and future students. While we can’t share all the details just yet, we are excited about what lies ahead and look forward to announcing more when the time is right.

A Word From Christiaan & Nikki

As we step into 2026, we do so with full hearts and a deep sense of gratitude. Building Kukama has been an incredible journey — one filled with passion, purpose, long days, and sometimes very tired bodies and minds. There are moments when the work is heavy and the responsibility feels big, but it is the people around us, the students, the team, and the wider Kukama family, who keep us going.

You remind us why we started. You help us believe, even on the hard days, that what we have created here truly makes a difference — in lives, in confidence, and in the future of conservation. Thank you for standing with us, for believing in the vision, and for being part of this journey. We couldn’t do it without you.

Looking Forward To Our Next Intakes

Our upcoming Field Guiding Course intakes will take place on:

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With Gratitude

We are ready for the year ahead and all the opportunities it will bring. Thank you for being part of our journey and for supporting Kukama Wildlife College as we continue to grow.

Wild regards,
The Kukama Team