Genesis K9 Group is a leading K9 training and specialised security provider, specialising in the development and certification of highly skilled working dogs. We deliver PSIRA-recognised (#2471961) and SASSETA-accredited (#151999692393) training programs, offering comprehensive courses in dog handling (DH1-DH5) from basic to advanced levels.
Our expertise extends to specialised training in security, detection, tracking, and anti-poaching operations, equipping both dogs and handlers for diverse operational environments. Whether through our 12-week dedicated course, client-specific training, or recognition of prior learning, we tailor our programs to meet unique needs.
Genesis K9 Group also offers a range of professional services, including guarding, the lease and sale of trained dogs, detection services, and boarding. We also provide certification of dogs and dogs teams. With a commitment to excellence, we ensure our clients receive top-tier solutions in canine security and training.
DH1-2
DH1-3
DH1-4
DH1-5A
DH1-5B
RPL
Extra subjects
Meet the Pack Behind Genesis K9 Group – A dedicated team of experts driven by a passion for excellence in canine training and security solutions.
André le Roux started his dog career in the military, in 1992. Following his time in the military, he worked as a Mine Detection Dog handler in various African countries and Bosnia Herzegovina. He was the co-founder of the Mine Dog Centre South Africa, which later became the Mine Dog School, in conjunction with MineTech International. He remains the owner of the property which serves as the Genesis K9 Group campus. His joint managing director duties include overseeing the training of dogs, new handlers and personally deploying and accrediting dogs and handlers in over 14 countries on 5 continents. André also served as part of the advisory group for the Geneva International Centre for Humanitarian Demining (GICHD). During this time, André was part of a team which compiled a puppy socialising program for demining dogs. To further his experience in working with detection dogs, he worked in Afghanistan as a Mission Dog Handler, attached to the Canadian military, to clear roads and patrol routes for Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs). André is a registered SASSETA facilitator, assessor and moderator, and his resumé is available upon request.
Thys Kleyn served in the SAPS for 9 years as a K9 instructor, and heads up patrol and aggression training. He holds an LL.B. degree from the University of Pretoria, and is currently on the roll of non-practicing lawyers of South Africa. Additionally, he has 12 years’ experience in countries like Tanzania, Iraq and Afghanistan as handler, trainer and project manager. In Iraq, he was part of the personal protection teams for Prime Minister Maliki and President Alawi. He was also responsible for establishing a canine unit at the Sulmania International Airport in Kurdistan. In Afghanistan, he assisted the Coalition Forces as Combat Dog Handler for four years, during which time he was deployed with the ground troops, handling a detection dog, searching for roadside bombs and Improvised Explosive Devices. Thys was also a trainer, project manager and quality control manager for canine programs in Afghanistan for another three years. During this time, he trained the VIP dog unit for President Karzai and the Border Police. He also formed part of the US department of State’s Anti-terrorist Assistance Canine program in Afghanistan. He also used his expertise for training dogs and dog handlers in Afghanistan and Thailand. Thys is a registered SASSETA facilitator, assessor and moderator. His resumé is available on request.
Christine Voorendyk holds DH1 – 5 qualifications and is a facilitator, moderator, and assessor. She has a BA in Communication and an Honours in English. As the head of training, she has been with Genesis for six years. Prior to this, she spent 14 years in advertising. Her favourite dog is a Bull Terrier, and her own working dog is a cross between a German Shepherd and a Malinois. Her favourite aspect of working at Genesis is training the best handlers to benefit the dogs coming through the programme.
Alex le Roux has been working at Genesis for six years as the Kennel Master, responsible for the wellbeing of the dogs. She is also an assessor, moderator, and facilitator for dog handler students. Her favourite part of her work is keeping the dogs happy. Some of the challenges she faces include working with difficult dogs. Her favourite breed is the Dutch Shepherd. In addition to her kennel duties, she conducts site visits. She is a qualified air hostess and holds DH1-5 dog handler training.
Sydney Matlala has been with Genesis K9 Group for nine years and has travelled to eight countries as an instructor. His favourite aspects of training are tracking and bite work, and he has a special fondness for Malinois and Bloodhounds. While abroad, he particularly enjoys working at checkpoints, where his skills are put to excellent use.
Merené Kotzé holds a DH5 qualification and has previous experience working at a shelter. With a diploma in equine science and currently pursuing an associate degree in veterinary technology, she brings a wealth of knowledge to her role. Her favourite part of volunteering is the opportunity to work with a wide variety of dogs, making every day unique. A Malinois is her favourite breed, and her ultimate goal is to work in anti-poaching efforts as a first responder for injured animals.
Julia Mbuyana spends her days washing kennels, working with the dogs, and training puppies. With eight years of experience at Genesis, her favourite part of the job is working with the puppies. She begins their training through play, using a toy to engage them. As they grow older, she introduces a small Kong toy to gradually build their skills.
Henri Fourie is a dedicated volunteer who assists with dog training. While he specialises in working dogs, he has a soft spot for dachshunds. He is also currently training his own Malinois. With a DH5 qualification in dog handling, his goal is to contribute to anti-poaching efforts in the future.
Harry Vestey is a dedicated volunteer with a background in anti-poaching, having completed a course at the Wildlife College, as well as a dog handling course. His favourite aspect of volunteering is watching new students grow and seeing their passion develop. Originally from England, he has been in South Africa for just over three years. He is now considering a career as a detection dog handler and trainer.
Future Nyoni has been with Genesis for nearly three years, where she plays an essential role in creating a welcoming environment. As a coffee maker and cleaner, she ensures everyone feels at home and comfortable.
Eugene Matila has been part of the team for nine years and brings 13 years of experience in dog training. Specialising in detection, he trains dogs for narcotics and explosives work. His career has taken him to Zambia and Southern Sudan, where he has trained numerous handlers. His favourite aspect of dog training is problem-solving, finding innovative ways to enhance a dog’s skills and performance.
Cynthwell Mnyangeni has been working at Genesis for seven years as a kennel cleaner. Her favourite dog is Kevin, a Dutch Shepherd. She enjoys grooming and walking the dogs.
Our training facility is situated just outside Pretoria, in the Seringveld Conservation Area. This environment suits us well in preparing the dogs to be deployed anywhere across the globe. The kennel facility is close to the world-renowned Onderstepoort Veterinary facility, and is also within 1 hour’s drive from OR Tambo International Airport.
Training takes place on-site and in the surrounding areas. This ensures that the dogs are well socialised, and able to cope with a vairety of environments. Regular training at various deployment sites creates word of mouth about the dogs and their crime-deterring abilities, resulting in a safer site.
Validations by a third party ensures that standards of the K9 unit are consistently maintained. Through our partnerships with numerous security companies in South Africa, many of our teams are deployed at residential and commercial properties, which we also use as socialisation sites for our young dogs.
All teams comply with the minimum standards as set by PSIRA-recognised (#2471961) and SASSETA-accredited (#151999692393). In addition, all explosive detection teams are trained according to the UN-suggested Frontex training methodology and international standards, ensuring teams of the highest calibre and professionalism. De-mining/UXO dog teams comply with the International Mine Action Standards (IMAS).
