Nestled within the sprawling 11,500 hectares of the Waterberg UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in Limpopo, South Africa, Qwabi Private Game Reserve offers an authentic safari adventure amid breathtaking landscapes. Guests enjoy daily game drives to encounter the ‘Big Five’ and other wildlife in their natural habitat, all while indulging in world-class, luxurious lodges that blend seamlessly into the environment.
Central to delivering this exceptional experience is a dependable and seamless communication network that ensures safety, security, and operational efficiency across the vast reserve.
While the reserve’s existing digital radio system was functional, it presented several limitations:
When the opportunity arose to upgrade, reserve management prioritised a failsafe, easy-to-use system that could support daily operations and emergency responses, from animal encounters to poacher threats.
Moreover, positioned at the foot of the Waterberg Plateau, the reserve’s mountainous terrain, especially along the northern boundaries with high hilltops, created significant shadow zones where radio coverage was unreliable. Collaborating with Brad Algar, Reserve Manager, the teams at Global Communications and its sister company Elvey analysed coverage maps to identify optimal locations for repeaters and plan future expansion, ensuring comprehensive coverage.
Algar’s familiarity with KENWOOD radios, gained over years of previous experience, coupled with a strong relationship with Global Communications, influenced his choice. Other manufacturers could meet most specifications, but none matched the combination of coverage, flexibility, compatibility, and cost efficiency offered by the KENWOOD/Global team.
“The Kenwood radios are suited to operate in nature reserves which are harsh and tuff environments where rain, dust and hot temperatures are present. Kenwood radios are well known for ruggedness and durability and as a result, it adds to the success of the entire radio network,” notes Sean Mervitz, Sales Manager for Global Communications.
The new KENWOOD Digital Mobile Radio (DMR) system provided superior quality, reliability, and support at a more competitive cost — delivering exceptional value.
The upgraded system comprises two solar-powered sites, each anchored by a 20m mast fitted with three KENWOOD NXR-1700 repeaters. These sites are interconnected via existing IP links, ensuring seamless communication across the entire reserve.
Device-wise, staff utilise NX-3000 Series radios with built-in GPS for mobile and base operations, and NX3220E hand-portable radios with keypads for field personnel. The integration of KENWOOD’s KAS-20 AVL/Dispatch software with EarthRanger offers real-time tracking and management of vehicles, personnel, and wildlife — displayed on an intuitive map interface.
One of the key innovations was the development of a rugged, solar-powered vehicle-mounted ‘Tracker Box,’ enabled by KENWOOD radios. This device, magnetically attachable to any vehicle, allows unaccompanied visitors and contractors to be tracked remotely. Integrated with EarthRanger, it provides real-time location data, drastically reducing response times during incidents and improving safety protocols.
“Our goal was to develop a reliable, flexible tracking solution to enhance safety and operational efficiency. The Tracker Boxes are cost-effective and significantly improve our ability to respond swiftly to emergencies or lost visitors,” says Algar.
While current coverage meets operational needs, Algar is proactively working with Global Communications and Elvey to evaluate additional sites that could extend coverage into shadow zones and support future growth. The modular design of the system allows for seamless expansion, ensuring the reserve remains adaptable to changing needs.
“The upgrade to the KENWOOD DMR system with KAS-20 and EarthRanger integration is transformative. It facilitates free, instant communication across teams, which has greatly enhanced safety, security, and the guest experience. The support from Global Communications and Elvey has exceeded expectations, enabling us to realise our vision for a connected, safe, and efficient reserve,” says Algar.
By investing in advanced, reliable radio technology, Qwabi Private Game Reserve has set a new standard in wilderness safety and operational excellence. The innovative integration of KENWOOD radios, AVL software, and custom vehicle trackers demonstrates how technology can elevate conservation efforts, improve guest experiences, and ensure the long-term sustainability of this pristine wilderness.
