Ground Breaking News - Literally!
by Barbara Wiseman
The Earth Organization team with the Bridgehouse Capital and members of the Mayibuye Trust.
Lawrence Anthony being interviewed by the National TV channel (SABC).
In a colorful traditional ceremony attended by civic and government officials, VIP’s, and over 500 Zulus from the rural community, Mr. Mujahid Alam, the head of all United Nations forces in Africa, cut the ribbon heralding the start of Africa’s newest game reserve. Dedicated to Eco Tourism and conservation, the Mayibuye Reserve near Durban, South Africa, is a joint venture between The Earth Organization (TEO) and the UK-based Bridgehouse Capital investment group, in partnership with the local Zulu tribe. “This is an historic day for the people of South Africa,” said Alam. “Environmental protection and enhancement is the right and duty of all peoples and all nations.”
The reserve comprises land taken away from the Zulu residents in forced removals during Apartheid, and which was successfully reclaimed by the Mayibuye tribe.
“This brand new wildlife reserve is a breakthrough for conservation in Africa,” said TEO's founder, Lawrence Anthony. “This is all about placing the future of our wildlife heritage where it belongs, in the hands of rural communities. Through projects such as this we are creating partnerships and rebuilding the traditional and cultural ties to nature which was lost during apartheid,” said Anthony.
“This project will put the land to good use for our members,” said Mayibuye Trust leader Thanda Mngwengwe, “We have created a beneficial partnership with The Earth Organization, through which we are able to protect our valuable wildlife heritage and use it to participate in the growing eco-tourism industry and uplift our people,"
Mr. Andy Ruhan Chairman of Bridgehouse Capital complimented the Mayibuye Trust and The Earth Organization for their foresight. “We are proud to be involved with such an innovative conservation project,” he said. “This endeavor will enhance and protect indigenous species in this wonderful natural area whilst at the same time building wealth and creating much needed job opportunities in the local Zulu community.”
“We have come the full circle since we were forcibly evicted from our land,” said Mr. Welcome Maphanga, the Mayibuye Trust Chairman. “It has been a long hard road, but we are back. Wild animals have always lived in our area and we used to hunt them. We have learned that if you kill a wild animal it provides food for a week, but by protecting them we create jobs for a lifetime.”
The 12,400 acre Mayibuye reserve will be the closest major game reserve to the metropolitan areas of Durban and Pietermaritzburg, placing it in prime position to tap into popular tourist routes. A luxury lodge and day center, with game-viewing drives and bush walks with professional game rangers will be complemented by an exclusive housing estate, a raptor sanctuary, and a wildlife rehabilitation facility.
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