Neo Paints: Colouring conservation

Every year, Neo Paints, Namibia’s largest and longest-standing paint manufacturer, commits to bringing a new and exciting promotion to the market - not only to thank its loyal customers, but also to support numerous initiatives working towards social upliftment, environmental protection and conservation.

This year, the Neo Paints team has embarked on a national Big 5 promotion that will see over N$200 000 in prizes up for grabs, all for those who support their outstanding range of products. In turn, one of the nation’s most notable conservation initiatives has been garnering massive assistance to grow its efforts and increase the viability of Africa’s endangered rhino species.

“We wanted to add some renewed excitement to the Neo Paints purchasing experience while also supporting conservation through the Rhino Momma initiative this year. We feel that this contribution will not only aide them in their noble efforts, but also help to safeguard the attractiveness this species adds to our tourism sector, which is a key contributor to our economy,” Neo Paints CEO Victor Boshoff said.



Conservation’s wider impact

Since purchasing its first rhino in August 2011 and the subsequent birth of the first calf in 2013, 131 rhino calves have been born at the Rhino Momma Project, and this has tremendously increased this threatened species’ continued survival and its important role in promoting tourism to Namibia and the region.

Jessica Willemse shared some insight on the aim of the initiative. “The Rhino Momma Project is a non-profit organisation in Namibia that was established with the sole mission of saving the rhino from extinction. We do this through a holistic approach which includes extensive anti-poaching strategies, conservation education, and, importantly, breeding new calves to help repopulate Namibia and Africa.”

As one can imagine, the costs of rearing, feeding and protecting these magnificent beasts are eye-watering.

“One of the greatest challenges we face is the financial hurdle that rises every month, and the Rhino Momma Project greatly relies on donations to continue our mission. Thanks to the support of local and international stakeholders such as Neo Paints, we are able to forge ahead and do our part in ensuring that generations to come can experience the wonder of seeing these special animals and not just read about them in history books,” she added.



Feeding the fragile beast

“A project like ours comes with great responsibility and great expenses. Our anti-poaching unit works 24/7 to ensure the safety of our rhinos. They do patrols around the clock - by foot, by car and with tracking dogs. Furthermore, we have a constant eye in the sky when Jaco Muller flies over the property with his gyrocopter to ensure there is no suspicious activity going on the reserve,” she explained.

Beyond their constant focus on conservation, the Rhino Momma Project invests a great number of resources in nurturing their growing calf population.

“Our animals are also constantly monitored to ensure their health and safety. They are fed twice daily in the dry season with fodder we grow ourselves. Currently, we are growing both Lucern and Rhodes grass, which provide them with the nutrients the natural growing grass lacks in the dry seasons,” Willemse said.



Colouring the countryside

Neo Paints, which has been colouring the country for over 68 years, has made significant social impacts throughout its history, while also leading the way in raising the standard and efficiency of local manufacturing.

Through their corporate social initiatives, the company has helped bring colour to schools, non-governmental organisations and public spaces. Their latest collaboration with the Rhino Momma Project seeks to widen this impact and ensures locals and tourist alike can enjoy these gentle giants for generations to come.

“Of course, this project comes with its challenges, but is ever so worth it! It is our mission and purpose in life to save this magnificent species from extinction, and every day that we are able to continue to do so is a blessing,” Willemse said.



Colouring conservation

To do your part to help preserve and protect this threatened yet crucially important species, simply head down to your local Neo Paints distributor and purchase some of their world-class, locally produced products. Not only will you be contributing to the vital sustainability of one of the world’s most endangered animals, but you could find yourself instantly winning one of a range of exciting prizes. All you need to do is spend N$500 or more!

Upon purchase, you will receive a scratch card that could see you winning instant prizes, including cash, luxury getaways, a meat carcass, promotional items and paint for you and the charity of your choice.

“The promotion is well underway and there are still plenty of prizes to be won, so we encourage everyone out there to visit their local Neo Paints distributor to stock up on our top-quality products, and you could stand a chance to win instant prizes while supporting a very good cause in our country,” Boshoff added.

The Big 5 promotion ends on 14 December, so do make sure to head down to your local Neo Paints retailer to take part.



For more information, visit neopaints.com