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22 October 2025 | Story Leonie Bolleurs | Photo Supplied
Giraffe Research Centre
The giraffe research programme and infrastructure facility at Amanzi Private Game Reserve marks the next phase in a research journey that has already placed the UFS at the forefront of giraffe science.

The University of the Free State (UFS) is taking wildlife research to new heights. On Wednesday 29 October 2025, the university will officially launch the giraffe research programme and infrastructure facility at the Amanzi Private Game Reserve near Brandfort – a first-of-its-kind in the world, dedicated to advancing local and international scientific collaboration in the study and conservation of giraffes.

The launch marks the next phase in a research journey that has already placed the UFS at the forefront of giraffe science. Over the past decade, a team of researchers, led by Prof Francois Deacon from the Department of Animal Science, has made significant contributions to understanding giraffe behaviour, physiology, and ecology. Building on pioneering work in reproductive technologies, endocrinology, anatomy, and disease, the new infrastructure combines on-site research laboratories with spacious, stress-free habitats. In this hands-on environment, veterinarians, scientists, and students can work closely with giraffes while promoting their welfare and supporting both local and international research projects.

Over the past seven years, his team has conducted 254 successful sedations and captures, carefully building the expertise needed for the next delicate step: the first embryo transfer in wild giraffes.

“This dedicated research facility will provide a safe and controlled environment where the world’s first giraffe embryo can develop and grow, and where we can collaborate to produce the science needed to turn the extinction of the giraffe around,” he explains. “The general public may not see the results immediately, but 20 years from now, what we are doing today will be vital in creating a biobank of viable giraffe embryos and calves that can be used in surrogate animals, supporting sustainable conservation practices for future generations.”

This programme will allow researchers to expand their understanding of the world’s tallest land mammal in ways that were not possible before. “From conducting sedation and sample collection to pioneering reproductive techniques such as semen preservation and embryo transfer, the facility provides an environment where we can study, among others, giraffe genetics, reproductive biology, and physiology; knowledge that is important for their conservation and survival,” says Prof Deacon. 

About 12 departments at the UFS are already involved in the research project in one way or another. This includes from the Department of Animal Science to the Departments of Zoology and Entomology, as well as Chemistry and even Information and Communication and Technology Services, which contributes to 3D-modelling, software, and monitoring of the animals. 

The project also offers opportunities for collaboration with conservation organisations and universities worldwide, positioning the UFS as a leading hub for giraffe and large-mammal research in Africa. Current partners who share Prof Deacon’s vision for giraffe conservation on the African continent include Save the Giraffes (a US-based NGO), Absolute Genetics, Ramsem, and the Kroonstad Animal Hospital.

Despite their towering presence on the African continent, giraffes are quietly disappearing. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) lists them as Vulnerable, with populations declining by more than 40% over the past three decades. Today, fewer than 100 000 remain in the wild – a sobering reminder that their future is far from secure and that research excellence like this is key to ensure their survival.

“We have all the technology and all the expertise to make a change. Now is the time to bring about this change to secure the future of giraffes on this continent,” Prof Deacon concludes, emphasising the UFS’ commitment to sustainability, care, and conservation.

News Archive

Veritas and Marjolein take Sêr champion’s title
2015-08-11

Veritas
Photo: Johan Roux

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Following zealous performances during the rotations from 3-6 August 2015, Veritas and Marjolein made the cut to the finals, subsequently emerging as the Kovsie Kleinsêr (Sêr) 2015 champions.

This year’s Sêr had 10 male and 14 female residences competing for a limited number of places in the finals. With only five and six spots available, respectively, the competition was extremely tough.

The University of the Free State’s cultural calendar culminated in a taxing final battle on Saturday 8 August 2015, by courtesy of MacDonalds Bloemfontein. Veritas, Vishuis and Armentum from the male section as well as Marjolein, Sonnedou, and Roosmaryn contending as female counterparts sent a rhythmic ripple across the Bloemfontein Campus.

With these residences occupying the top three spots, adrenaline reached maximum levels as the groups competed for the crown and a place in the nationals. Spectators at the sold-out music event experienced world-class entertainment in all three venues: the Albert Wessels Auditorium, the Odeion, and the Kovsie Church.

On 29 August 2015, the champions are scheduled to test their strength against the universities of Pretoria, the North West, and Johannesburg at the nationals. The Stellenbosch University is to host this year’s Kleinsêr national competition, where the best will be crowned as South Africa’s Klêinser kings and queens.

 

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