REFLECTIONS 2018
Reflections | 2018
CONTENTS WILDTRUST Chairman’s Report
1
WILDTRUST CEO’s Report
3
WILDTRUST Overview
5
WILDLANDS Executive Director’s Report
7
WILDLANDS Ecological Restoration
9
WILDLANDS Sustainable Communities: Trees for Life
11
WILDLANDS Sustainable Communities: Khuthaza Business
13
WILDLANDS Sustainable Communities: Food for Life
15
WILDLANDS Sustainable Communities: Recycling for Life
17
WILDLANDS WILDSERIES
20
WILDLANDS Species Conservation
21
WILDLANDS Biodiversity Economy
23
WILDOCEANS Executive Director’s Report
25
WILDOCEANS RV Angra Pequena
27
WILDOCEANS Ocean Stewards
29
WILDOCEANS Whale Time
31
WILDOCEANS Blue Crew
33
WILDOCEANS Marine Protected Area Expansion
35
We’re for The WILD We work for the WILD places, the open spaces, on land and sea, the green and blue places, oases among our sprawling cities.
WILDENTERPRISE 37
We work for the safety of species, conserving and restoring the ecosystems in which they can thrive.
WILDTRUST Learning & Development
39
We work for the upliftment of people and communities, creating WILD livelihoods that provide dignity and a future for families.
WILDTRUST Marketing
42
WILDTRUST Our People
45
WILDTRUST Finance & Investments
47
We’re for The WILD For bringing humankind and nature back into harmony, reducing the impacts of humanity, while providing opportunities for people. We grow, we sustain, we restore, we protect, People and Planet. Now. Tomorrow. Forever. We’re for The WILD
WILDTRUST Donors 48
Reflections | 2018
extraction, and climate change. The impact of climate
CHAIRMAN’S
change is particularly noticeable, through ocean warming, acidification and sea-level rise. There
REPORT
is little doubt that humankind’s relationship with the marine world is rapidly changing. Through its WILDOCEANS programme,
It has been another exciting year for the Trust and it is my
members on fixed-term contracts. We’re excited to be renewing
the WILDTRUST is working closely with
privilege to share some of the highlights and key changes
our Sustainable Schools partnership with the KwaZulu-Natal
local, national and provincial government
that we have made that will significantly inform and shape
Department of Public Works, which makes a real impact in over
to improve our knowledge of our South
our ongoing growth and ability to make both a substantial and
2 000 very poor schools.
African marine systems and to develop
sustainable difference to conservation and communities.
In March this year the WILDTRUST facilitated a momentous
In March, we repositioned the Wildlands Conservation Trust as
ten-year agreement signed with the Emvokweni Community
the WILDTRUST. Central to this repositioning was the launch of
Trust to continue the important conservation efforts made at
our WILDOCEANS programme, under the leadership of Dr Jean
the Somkhanda Game Reserve, which remains a signature
Harris (Executive Director). This new programme consolidates
project of the WILDTRUST. The WILDTRUST’s Board have
our existing marine and coastal conservation work and enables
pledged their support to the development and achievement
the expansion of support for the ocean environment and the
of the vision of this project to create a premier ‘Big 5’ game
sustainable development of coastal communities and the Blue
reserve, allowing the community to begin actively pursuing
Economy. The WILDOCEANS programme will complement the
significant ecotourism investors.
WILDLANDS programme activities, led by Dr Roelie Kloppers (Executive Director), which has grown into an incredible portfolio of terrestrial conservation and sustainable community development projects. We have also repositioned Wildlands Green-preneurs (Pty) Ltd, our Enterprise Development arm, as WILDENTERPRISE (Pty) Ltd, consolidating our new brand positioning.
Ecological Restoration interventions that repair and restore the ecosystems that support us, and catalysing and encouraging Sustainable Communities across our programme footprint. Underwritten by our partnerships with Government, Businesses
The WILDTRUST continues to be the sole beneficiary of an Endowment Fund, which is managed by FIM Capital
the National Research Foundation of the Department
of
Science
and
Technologies
(DST), has enabled a series of marine expeditions exploring the Indian Ocean off KwaZulu-Natal. These expeditions will be led by a collective of South Africa’s top marine scientists and will also include a cadre
The WILDTRUST has partnered with Off The Fence (OTF), a world-class production company, to produce a documentary series called ‘Our Oceans.’ The ‘Our Oceans’ marine documentary series will profile these expeditions, raising awareness and knowledge about our country’s spectacular marine ecosystems, charismatic animals and the learning journey of the scientists and Ocean Stewards on-board the RV Angra Pequena. On reflection of the financial year ended 30th June 2018, the WILDTRUST continues to make great strides toward achieving a “Sustainable Future for All”, in both the terrestrial and marine conservation efforts, underwritten by its WILDLANDS and WILDOCEANS programmes, working toward improving both the green and blue economies. Working in challenging environmental and economic conditions, I wish to commend the executive team of Dr Andrew Venter,
secured by the late Robin James. In September last year, the
Dr Roelie Kloppers, Dr Jean Harris, Ms Shanitha Singh and Ms Louise Duys, and their teams, who continue to make a substantial
WILDTRUST through its WILDOCEANS programme purchased
conservation difference.
the historic conservation research and expedition vessel,
managed by Ewing’s Trust Company, the Conservation Capital
the “RV Angra Pequena” at a cost of R 3.8m with funds drawn
Fund and The Blue Fund, managed by Bridge Private Clients,
from the WILDTRUST’s International Endowment Fund. This
had a total market value of R 92m (2017: R 85m).
Endowment Fund is now closed and we express our sincere
In closing, I’d like to thank our donors and partners for their ongoing support and to the Board of Trustees, thank you for your commitment, wisdom and loyal support.
gratitude to Robin James who remained a devoted benefactor of the WILDTRUST during his time.
the delayed start-up of the Sustainable Schools and Natural
Research suggests that we know very little about our marine
Resource Management projects in October 2017. Both projects
ecosystems, and that these systems are under severe pressure
enable the large-scale employment of local community
from unsustainable fishing, mining exploration and mineral
1
Ecosystem Programme (ACEP) funded by
Limited and was established through a donation endowment
At 30th June 2018, the WILDTRUST’s General Trust Fund
on its payroll at 30th June 2018. This increase is largely due to
Coelacanth
participate in these expeditions.
growth in South Africa.
The WILDTRUST had 1 779 employees (2017: 237 employees)
African
South Africa’s Biodiversity Economy, supporting and shaping
fundraising and an additional R 7.1m (2017: R 7.7m) through
activities.
the
universities across the country that will have the opportunity to
shaping the future of environmental custodianship and inclusive
R 109.7m (2017: R 94.4m) was spent in support of special-project
from
interlinked project themes, namely, promoting and enabling
R 109.7m (2017: R 131.3m); R 102.6m (2017: R 123.6m) through
accounted for 8% of the WILDTRUST’s income. A total of
Support
of WILDOCEANS’ Ocean Stewards; students drawn from
and Civil Society, our team continues to make a real impact,
the WILDTRUST amounted to R 8.8m (2017: R 9.5m), which
scientists, managers and policy makers.
Our WILDLANDS programme continues to flourish, with three
Over the past financial year, the WILDTRUST raised a total of
investment and other activities. The core operating costs of
the capacity of a new generation of marine
Mr Andile Ncontsa Chairman | WILDTRUST
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Reflections | 2018
CEO’S
REPORT The Wildlands Conservation Trust is evolving. Formed through
Our WILDOCEANS programme builds on the foundation we
a merger between the Wildlands Trust and the KwaZulu-
have built over the past four years, through our Whale Time,
Natal Conservation Trust in 2004, the Trust has grown into one
Ocean Stewards, Blue Crew, and other initiatives supported
of South Africa’s largest and most influential environmental
through the Blue Fund. In August 2018, Dr Jean Harris
Non-Government Organisations. This past year we rebranded
joined us to lead the development of this programme, with
the Trust as the WILDTRUST, recognising the evolution of
emphasis on supporting the conservation of the incredible
our community-based terrestrial conservation work into a
marine biodiversity of the western Indian Ocean, nurturing
comprehensive WILDLANDS programme and the launch of our
the development of the next generation of marine scientists,
new marine-focused WILDOCEANS programme.
managers and policy makers; and supporting the sustainable
Our WILDLANDS programme is structured around three
development of a regional Blue Economy.
integrated pillars, namely our Wildlife Economy, Ecological
The incredible WILDTRUST team continue to inspire through
Restoration and Sustainable Communities’ interventions. With
their commitment, passion and determination to make a
a core focus on inclusive growth, the WILDLANDS programme
difference. It is my privilege to be part of this team. A special
is improving the lives of thousands of South Africans whilst
thanks to our Trustees whose wisdom, patience, guidance and
restoring and conserving the natural environment that supports
leadership continues to allow the Trust to grow and evolve, as
them. Led by Dr Roelie Kloppers, our WILDLANDS team have
we all work towards our vision of “A Sustainable Future for All”.
already significantly influenced the development of South Africa’s community-based conservation movement.
Dr Andrew Venter CEO | WILDTRUST
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Reflections | 2018
OVERVIEW
The work of the WILDTRUST stretches over 46 community projects across six provinces: KWAZULU-NATAL l Durban Harbour l Buffelsdraai l Cornubia (Chopper Town, Blackburn, Ottawa) l Tongaat (Mona River, Burbreeze, Wewe, Ndwedwe) l uMbilo (Cato Manor) l Msunduzi (Skeleton Valley, Willowfontein, Sweetwaters, Edendale, Northdale, Raisethorpe, Copesville) l uMgeni (Midmar, Mpompomeni) l Karkloof (Dartmoor) l Upper uThukela (Amangwane, Amazizi, AmaSwathi) l iSimangaliso l uMhlatuze Estuary (Nsezi)
MPUMALANGA l Kruger to Canyon (Maruleng)
GAUTENG l Magaliesburg
NORTHERN CAPE l Colesburg
EASTERN CAPE l Port St Johns (Silaka, Mngazana)
WESTERN CAPE l Stellenbosch (Kayamandi, Stellenbosch)
WILDTRUST 2017 / 2018 IMPACT 101 861 trees bartered
264 534
l Ongoye (Mzimele) l Richards Bay Coastal Dune Forest (Sokhulu, Mbonambi, Alton, eSikhawini) l Lubombo Corridor (Bhekula) l Zululand (Mandlakazi, Gumbi)
training days
3 309 ha
1 831 Green Desks to 3 662 learners
alien plants cleared
4 548 907 kg
18
recycling collected & prevented from going to landfill
bursaries
R 1 793 280
active Green-preneurs
invested in communities through barter & cash exchange
5
10 186
indigenous trees planted
l Dukuduku Forest (Khula Village, eZwenelisha) l Mkhuze Floodplain (Zinesha, Kwajobe, Sibonokuhle)
6 159
jobs enabled
1 082
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Reflections | 2018
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S
REPORT In welcoming WILDOCEANS as the formal marine programme
land. Through this approach we are able to protect
of the WILDTRUST this past year, an opportunity arose to
the vulnerable habitats and ecosystems that
redefine WILDLANDS’ niche as a terrestrial conservation
house our endangered plants and animals that
programme within the larger NGO family. While we continue
we all remain deeply passionate about. This
to pride ourselves in innovation and our ability to implement
coming year sees us playing an increasingly
impactful projects in complex environments, our true niche lies
active role in the development of the
in our commitment to human dignity and finding solutions that
biodiversity economy. Our aim is to pilot
protect vulnerable people while we protect our fragile natural
different land-uses and economic models
environment.
that can conserve and sustainably utilise
This last year we facilitated employment for almost 5 000 young, unemployed people placed at poor rural schools. Here they were tasked with improving the general conditions at the schools so that young kids can have decent areas to learn and grow in. Our Trees for Life and Recycling for Life projects also continued to focus on marginalised people, allowing them to access the Green Economy and earn a decent wage to support
large pockets of land, which will ensure the wealth of our country is equally shared and everyone has the opportunity to benefit. Our portfolio of restoration work also continues to grow, maintaining a national footprint and ensuring that degraded areas are returned to a natural state.
their families. Similarly, our flagship conservation partnerships
We look forward to an exciting year ahead
with local communities in northern KwaZulu-Natal are based
as we continue to innovate, implement and
on the principles of inclusiveness, equality and improved
challenge the status quo on what can be
governance. Not only are we committed to labour-intensive
achieved in this amazing country.
ways of managing protected areas, but also on building the capacity of our partners to be improved stewards of their own
Dr Roelie Kloppers Executive Director | WILDLANDS
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Reflections | 2018
ECOLOGICAL RESTORATION Restoring ecosytems for a more resilient future The WILDLANDS Ecological Restoration project, with support
track-record of success in implementing NRM
from the Department of Environmental Affairs: Natural Resource
projects, WILDLANDS was contracted to lead
Management (NRM) aims to restore degraded forest (using
the national programme to control Parthenium
the trees grown by WILDLANDS Tree-preneurs), grasslands,
hysterophorus, a highly-invasive noxious weed
savanna and fynbos landscapes combating land degradation
that is rapidly infesting large parts of the country.
and adapting South Africa’s landscape to be better prepared for climate change. Through revegetation and improved management of landscapes we work to re-establish ecosystem function and resilience. South Africa is a water-stressed country and so an important focus has been working along rivers to maintain and restore riparian forest systems that will prove most effective in adapting communities to climate change by improving water quality and quantity. The initiative has predominantly been active in KwaZulu-Natal (Tembe, Somkhanda, the Mkuze Floodplain, Dukuduku in the iSimangaliso area, Richards Bay, Cornubia, Ndwedwe and Buffelsdraai in Greater Durban as well as the Upper uThukela catchment area). Other restoration initiatives have taken place in Port St Johns (Eastern Cape), Stellenbosch (Western Cape) and
Restoring South Africa’s degraded landscapes is a much greater task than can be achieved by WILDLANDS alone. We believe our greatest impact will be the developing and improving of the restoration sector through implementing benchmark restoration projects that will deliver meaningful benefits for both the environment and communities. We’d like to thank our donors for their continued support over the past year including the Department of Environmental Affairs’ Natural Resource Management programme, Umfulana, Distell, eThekwini Municipality, Tongaat Hulett Developments and Unilever.
Hoedspruit (Limpopo). Due to this wide project footprint and
2017 / 2018 IMPACT alien plants cleared
3 309 ha
indigenous plant species planted
264 534
people employed on project
indigenous trees planted
9
± 56
837
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Reflections | 2018
SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITIES
TREES FOR LIFE Growing sustainable livelihoods The vision of this, WILDLANDS’ most established and
We are grateful to our numerous government
simplest project, remains the growing of indigenous trees on
and corporate sponsors who support the Trees
a large scale, supporting the livelihoods of marginalised and
for Life initiative, including: the DEA (through
unemployed people and their ability to provide for their families.
NRM), Ethekwini Municipality, Umfulana,
The trees are then planted into restoration sites that form the
Richards Bay Coal Terminals, South 32,
corner stone of WILDLANDS’ climate change mitigation and
Spier, Unilever and Old Mutual.
adaptation work. The majority of Trees for Life activity over the past year supported our two flagship restoration projects: Buffelsdraai and the NRM Land Users Incentive Project. The key geographic area of focus was across KwaZulu-Natal, with particular emphasis on eThekwini, Msunduzi and the Richards Bay Coastal Forest. Despite the challenges posed by the ongoing drought which saw some trees being lost in our Tree-preneur’s nurseries and the fact that in some regions we have run out of areas to replant, we still managed to barter 101 861 trees for a value of R 813 682, giving 367 community members an instrument to grow themselves out of poverty.
2017 / 2018 IMPACT 367
101 861
1 250
R 813 623
Tree-preneurs
dependants
11
trees bartered
invested through barter exchange
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Reflections | 2018
SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITIES
KHUTHAZA BUSINESS Supporting small entrepreneurs to become more sustainable Inspired by the grit and vision of our WILDLANDS’ Tree-
Our key focus areas for the past year have been the Zululand
preneurs, Khuthaza Business was launched in 2013 with
Corridor, the Mkuze Floodplain, Ongoye, Richards Bay Coastal
Enterprise Development support from the South African Sugar
Dune and uMhlatuze areas as well as Msunduzi where we have
Association who underwrote the original project concept to
had a significant and positive impact. Over the next year, the
provide business start-up grants and stock to Tree-preneurs in
Khuthaza Business team will nurture and help our 62 learners’
exchange for trees.
businesses become sustainable and, with the support of our
The vision for the initiative is to ‘Khuthaza’ (encourage) individuals who display commitment, determination and business acumen to grow their entrepreneurial ideas and
key partners, the Walmart Foundation and the Global Nature Fund, we will work with over 150 more beneficiaries to create businesses with a strong focus on the Green Economy.
activities and to provide them with an opportunity to enter the cash and Green Economy. As the project has evolved, we have been able to integrate a greater training and development component, providing the entrepreneurs with a better foundation from which to grow their businesses. Over the past year, with the support of Unilever South Africa, the Walmart Foundation, Makro, Global Nature Fund, South 32 and Container World, 46 Clothes-preneurs and 50 Unilever Minivendors have been established with 62 learners supported by the Walmart Foundation being provided with accredited training and the support needed to develop a range of small businesses.
“ …to
2017 / 2018 IMPACT
‘Khuthaza’ (encourage)
46
Clothes-preneurs
62
50
612
Unilever mini-vendors
entrepreneurs supported by the Walmart Foundation
dependants
individuals who display commitment, determination &
”
business acumen… 13
Reflections | 2018
SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITIES
FOOD FOR LIFE
Creating sustainable food security and livelihoods from the ground up The Food for Life project, with support from Nedbank, started
As for the initial hubs, the KwaGumbi, Mandlakazi and KwaJobe
in early 2016 with three community hubs established in the
hubs now have developed seedling tunnels and demonstration
Msunduzi (Pietermaritzburg), eSikhawini and Cato Manor areas.
gardens. In Khula we are funding a local co-operative that is
The initiative aims to create a community culture that values
now producing seedlings for the local market.
and practices self-worth, self-reliance, enterprise, optimism,
Our experience and learnings over the past year has seen the
proactivity and a “start with what you have, build on what you
initiative restructured to include a training phase with a focus on
know� philosophy. Community members are empowered with
shifting mindsets; a food security phase with the development
climate-smart, permaculture technologies which they can use
of homestead gardens and a small business creation phase,
to improve food security, address malnutrition and reduce costs
encouraging the running of the hubs as a small business entity.
for themselves and their families. The vision is to create microentrepreneurs who use permaculture vegetable gardening to improve their own health and earn an income, while building the local economy through networked, ecologically-sustainable food production. Over the last year the project has expanded into new areas thanks to funding received from Nedbank, South 32, BMZ through the Global Nature Fund and the Future Farmer Foundation. There are now a total of eight community hubs, including Msunduzi, eSikhawini, Ndwedwe, KwaJobe, KwaGumbi, Mandlakazi, Khula and Acornhoek in Limpopo. A total of 18 Future Farmers (agricultural graduates) have been given the opportunity to develop their skills through implementing this project. Out of the 18, five have been absorbed by the organisation with one now playing an oversight and co-ordinating role.
2017 / 2018 IMPACT Community Hub
community hubs
8
18
demonstration gardens
7
16
107 000
17
seedlings produced
52
permaculture trainings conducted
15
Future Farmers
Food for Life schools
Seedling-preneurs bartering trees for seedlings
603
learners, school staff & community members trained
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Reflections | 2018
SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITIES
RECYCLING FOR LIFE
Improving lives and environments through the waste-economy Recycling for Life started in 2010 in partnership with Unilever
With the recycling markets being down, the last
South Africa. The project focus is on enabling communities and
year has been a tough one in the recycling space,
individuals (Waste-preneurs) to improve their living environment
but with the support of our donors (Gary Player
by collecting recycling and selling it to WILDLANDS. This aids
Initiative, Department of Environmental Affairs –
communities and individuals in two ways, by creating much-
Expanded Public Works Programme, South 32,
needed income and creating a cleaner environment, particularly
Nedbank and Unilever), we are committed to
for those communities that don’t benefit from municipal waste
growing our network of people in communities
collection services.
who collect and trade recycling as well as
The initiative is built around the consistent daily collection of recycling from Waste-preneurs, schools, recycling villages and local businesses across WILDLANDS’ operating nodes.
continuing our journey to develop, explore and innovate new and creative solutions to address the waste problem.
Over the past year, the project has been active in Howick and Pietermaritzburg as well as the Greater Durban and Greater Richards Bay areas.
2017 / 2018 IMPACT 715 Waste-preneurs 2 676 636 kg collected
collected Midmar, Cato Manor & Alton Recycling Depots
130 schools 503 673 kg collected
people employed as supervisors, drivers & sorters
4 078 968 kg 130
90 business & residential collection points 1 320 238 kg collected 17
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Reflections | 2018
WILDSERIES
Activations
#GOGREEN
GREEN DESKS
Endurance events for endangered species The WILDSERIES was established to profile South Africa’s
Our sponsors; Old Mutual, Jonsson Workwear, STIHL, TIMEFREIGHT, and Conservation partners; Ezemvelo KZN
Pioneering a waste-conscious generation
Waste innovation for enhanced education
spectacular natural heritage while raising funds for endangered
#GOGREEN was launched in 2016 as a waste-management
Green Desks were devised as an innovative solution to two
species (cranes, rhino, wild dog and the bearded vulture) as well
Wildlife, SANParks Honorary Rangers and the Karkloof
and anti-littering movement targeted at Old Mutual-
of South Africa’s critical problems. The lack of effective
as to support the work of our Conservation partners. The series
Conservancy have played an important role in the success
sponsored endurance events in South Africa. Our vision
recycling solutions for post-consumer Multi-layer Multi-
comprises of three unique trail-running and one mountain-
of the WILDSERIES. This year the #GOGREEN campaign was
was to educate, influence and change the mindset of
material Film waste (which previously was destined for
biking event, each held in a protected area where the public
implemented across all four WILDSERIES events advocating
runners and spectators about how they dispose of their
landfill), and a shortage of school desks for learners in
would not normally have access.
the reduction of single-use plastic and recycling.
waste at the events as well as their home environments.
disadvantaged communities in South Africa. The Green
We activated #GOGREEN at the Old Mutual Soweto Marathon, Two Oceans Marathon and Comrades Marathon at the pre-race registration Expos, where we sold
Desk solution sees that the post-consumer film is mixed and extruded into planks which are assembled into school desks and distributed to under-resourced schools.
#GOGREEN-branded merchandise and engaged runners
Over this last year, with the support of our donors and partners;
and spectators on the concept, encouraging them to carry
Old Mutual, Polyco, South 32, Unilever, KZN Department of
their own hydration, not to use single-use plastic and to
Public Works, Amcor, Woolworths, the Zero2Five Foundation,
throw their waste into the #GOGREEN Throw Zones, placed
Dupont and Nedbank, we have delivered 1 831 double desks
strategically along the routes. In partnership with Polyco
to 92 schools providing a stable foundation for learning to
and Old Mutual, this waste was collected and converted
3 662 learners. The Green Desk innovation has catalysed
into 766 Green Desks which were distributed to 36 schools
creative thinking around processing problematic materials
in the Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal impacting the
into usable products. This process will continue in the coming
lives of 1 532 learners.
year, exploring other end-use application options.
R 1 290 500 total funds raised
Funds raised per event:
R 357 344
2017 / 2018 IMPACT 1Green 831 Desks distributed 92
R 233 439 R 407 446 R 292 271
schools benefitted
3 662
learners benefitted
105 410 kg
of previously unrecyclable materials prevented from going to landfill
12
people employed for desk assembly
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Reflections | 2018
SPECIES CONSERVATION Protecting iconic species, preserving ecosystems The objective of the WILDLANDS’ Species Conservation
Somkhanda setbacks
project is to support the conservation of endangered and
Despite our best efforts to protect them, one of the rhino at
critically-endangered species through improved ecosystem
Somkhanda Game Reserve was poached earlier this year
management and interventions that secure animals vulnerable
and is survived by her male calf – Mpilo. Fortunately, the calf
to poaching and illegal wildlife trafficking. When we focus on
was tranquilised, dehorned and microchipped before being
iconic species we draw attention to vulnerable ecosystems,
transported to safety at a local rhino orphanage.
and when we put in place mechanisms to protect iconic species, it benefits the broader ecosystem. So, our species initiative should not be seen in isolation of our biodiversity economy, restoration or sustainable communities projects, but as an integral part that conveys the message and sounds the warning bells when intervention is needed.
Supporting rhino conservation WILDLANDS continue to support Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife’s Rhino Intervention Unit through the Conservation Capital Fund. This includes support for the project manager as well as funding for the canine unit in Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park. WILDLANDS also supports the efforts of Project Rhino KZN,
The Somkhanda success story continues
a partnership of government and NGOs to combat rhino
The Gumbi community have been filled with much excitement
poaching through funding for the Zululand Anti-Poaching Wing
around the growing number of wildlife introduced to the
(ZAP WING).
Somkhanda Community Game Reserve over the last two years, We’d like to thank Old Mutual and other WILDSERIES sponsors,
establishing it as a ‘Big Five’ reserve.
Empowers Africa, Masscash, Belgotex, Talbot & Talbot, During the year a pride of three lions (one male and two female)
Different.Org and our committed Adopt-a-Rhino and Camera
arrived at their new home in Somkhanda, from Phinda Private
Trap donors (Richard Boxford, The Ridge School, Circus Krone/
Game Reserve. This translocation was carried out as part of
Go - for Rhino, Highbury College, Sean Williams, Ambi Lube,
Phinda’s lion management strategy, supported by Empowers
Mozambik Restaurant, Peter Eastwood and Tim Hancock) for
Africa and inspired by the powerful feature documentary –
their ongoing support for this important work.
Blood Lions®. Since their introduction the pride has grown with the birth of four healthy cubs. These cubs are the first wild lions born on Somkhanda in the past 50 plus years since lions were persecuted and exterminated from the area. In 2017, 13 elephants were introduced from Nambiti Private Game
Reserve.
WILDLANDS
in
partnership
with
the
Emvokweni Community Trust (ECT), manage the elephant population through an intensive contraception programme that aims to slow down population growth, while talks continue with neighbouring communities and landowners to expand the elephant range. The current size of Somkhanda allows for a small breeding herd, but one day we would like to see multiple herds roam across a wider, connected Zululand mega-reserve. The contraception work is made possible through generous donations by Parsons Aviation and philanthropist, John Morgan. The work is facilitated by Dr Wayne Matthews and the Wildlife Resources Association (WRA).
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Hectares of land under WILDLANDS stewardship:
Total: 64 000 hectares
11 603 ha
Somkhanda
790 ha
Dartmoor
3 000 ha
Bhekula
4 000 ha
Tshanini
44 525 ha
Upper uThukela
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Reflections | 2018
BIODIVERSITY ECONOMY Driving inclusive growth opportunities through the wildlife economy WILDLANDS’ Biodiversity Economy project’s key objective is to
better stewards of their communal lands as the project
ensure inclusive growth and social justice for rural communities
directly contributes to a decline in erosion and a restoration
living on land with marginal agricultural value, through growing
of grasslands. The Mweni cattle auction saw buyers travel to
opportunities in the biodiversity economy. Our initiatives focus
the community to purchase the cattle and resulted in 93 cattle
specifically on the Wildlife Economy which centres on the socio-
being sold investing almost R 650 000 back into the community.
economic benefits of ecotourism, co-managed conservation
The success of the first auction has seen more cattle owners’
areas and ancillary services to protected areas.
associations join the project and increase conservation of the
This project is particularly relevant against the current debates on land ownership and promotes the idea of restoring marginal agricultural land back to its natural state and using the Wildlife
rangelands. These healthy grasslands benefit all South Africans as this area is one of the main catchment zones in Southern Africa, responsible for water for areas as far away as Gauteng.
Economy to drive production. The initiative is implemented
The major focus going forward will be expanding the
at five sites in KwaZulu-Natal: Tshanini-Bhekula Community
benefits beyond the boundaries of the reserves. To
Reserve, Somkhanda Community Reserve, Dartmoor (Karkloof
enable this we look forward to the continued support
Nature Reserve), Buffelsdraai Nature Reserve and the Upper
of our donors and sponsors: BMZ through the
uThukela (Mweni) area.
Global Nature Fund, Department of Environmental
This year WILDLANDS and the Emvokweni Community Trust entered into a 10-year management agreement for Somkhanda Game Reserve which sees the establishment of a Joint Management Board. The Joint Management Board will further develop ecotourism on Somkhanda and work on the expansion of the community reserve to create a mega-reserve with true benefits for biodiversity conservation and the development of rural communities in northern KwaZulu-Natal. A first success has been the supply of drinking water to the
Affairs, Environmental Monitors Programme (through SANParks), Hans Hoheisen Charitable Trust, DEA NRM Programme, WWF-Green Trust, Hanover96 Football Club, eThekwini Municipality,
Old
Mutual
WILDSERIES
Three Cranes Challenge (Dartmoor) and the Walmart Foundation, as we build community small business development capacity and participation in the Green Economy.
communities adjoining Somkhanda, made possible through a donation by Hanover96 Football Club in Germany. WILDLANDS and the Emvokweni Community Trust also attended the 3rd Annual Biodiversity Economy Indaba in East London, and together we continue to work with the Department of Environmental Affairs, our global donors and local partners to build a model for post-restitution conservation that can be replicated throughout Southern Africa. Another key activity was the first Meat Naturally cattle auction in the Mweni area in the uKhahlamba Drakensberg World Heritage Site. This project sees us work closely with communal stockowners to introduce a rotational grazing regime in this critical catchment area. Local stockowners in effect become
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Reflections | 2018
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S
REPORT In shaping the new WILDOCEANS programme, we follow the
this year. It aims to support and encourage government to meet
remarkable lead of the WILDLANDS programme that has
its current MPA target of 5 % (with 22 new / expanded MPAs)
achieved innovative solutions for nature conservation while
before the end of 2018 and 10 % by 2020, and to reach for the
enhancing livelihood opportunities for vulnerable communities.
30 % that science indicates needs to be protected for resilience
In purpose, both programmes speak directly to the Sustainable
and sustainability. Underpinned by the #OnlyThisMuch
Development Goals (RIO+20) of the Blue Economy advanced
campaign it has already made significant progress in building
by the United Nations: “improved human well-being and
awareness for MPAs and the value of healthy oceans.
social equity, while significantly reducing environmental risks and ecological scarcities”. In developing the WILDOCEANS programme we see need for strategic action and innovative partnerships to support government and communities to take advantage of services that healthy oceans offer and improve the livelihoods of coastal communities, while protecting marine ecosystems and working to restore natural resources to a more productive state.
Central to the development of WILDOCEANS is the historic vessel, RV Angra Pequena. Providing exceptional ability to implement projects focused on the Blue Economy, she is a signature icon for creating marine awareness and is central to our four-part “Our Oceans” documentary series that is currently in the making. RV Angra Pequena is a unique asset for offshore research in Southern and Eastern African waters filling the gap between big research ships and small coastal craft. We
The WILDOCEANS programme builds on three foundational
look forward to inspiring expeditions planned next year that
projects. This year saw significant growth in our capacity-
will bring attention to ocean issues, and provide a platform
building Ocean Stewards project, in both scope of activities
for partnerships for discovery science, capacity-building and
as well as number of participants, with 16 marine science
conservation action.
students joining the Fellowship of almost 70 students from five universities. Aiming for both socio-economic and conservation gains the Blue Crew project has continued to support female Waste-preneurs based in communities adjacent to coastal environments, bringing the WILDLANDS’ Recycling for Life
Dr Jean Harris Executive Director | WILDOCEANS
project to the coast where much of the waste generated on land ends up. The Whale Time project blends tourism product development (including guide training) with the generation of awareness and knowledge about the recovering (after near extinction from whaling) humpback whale population that migrates along the east coast. In addition to these inception projects, we were pleased to support the Ezemvelo Turtle Monitoring Programme. This conservation intervention has endured for over 50 years and brought significant wins for the protection of endangered species whilst generating jobs for impoverished coastal communities. Recognising the very low level of protection secured for South Africa’s oceans, with less than 0.4 % of our continental Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) within marine protected areas (MPAs), our new MPA Expansion advocacy project was launched in June
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26
Reflections | 2018
RV ANGRA PEQUENA Pioneering marine science initiatives Oceanic Research Yacht RV Angra Pequena provides a unique
RV Angra Pequena’s efforts have assisted in identifying
platform for offshore marine science and capacity-building,
offshore areas in need of protection in support of South Africa’s
and conservation expeditions. She was originally built to patrol
proposed expanded Marine Protected Area Network. In May
the seas in Namibia, and later used as a Sea Fisheries Research
this year, offshore research activities focused on deeper
vessel in Cape Town. Primarily captained by WILDOCEANS
mesophotic (30-250 m) habitats on the uThukela Banks for the
Executive Director, Dr Jean Harris, this classic 72 ft vessel now
University of KwaZulu-Natal’s (UKZN) Spatial Solutions Project,
provides opportunity for sea-going mentorship to marine
part of the African Coelacanth Ecosystem Programme (ACEP)
science students (the Ocean Stewards) and a valuable
which is funded by the National Research Foundation. This
platform for conservation activities. Twenty-eight young marine
project is a collaboration of several research institutions and
scientists joined five-day research expeditions this past year
involves the Ocean Stewards. It has yielded the first images of
and a number of others joined on day trips off the Durban coast.
the seafloor in the area as well as the discovery of new species
The vessel is capable of deploying marine research instruments
and distribution records. In addition, in June this year studies
such as remote-operated underwater vehicles (ROV’s) and
were conducted in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park on canyons
baited remote underwater video systems (BRUV’s) and offers a
to understand their role and need for protection. This is part of
good platform for diver and deck observation studies. RV Angra
the ACEP Canyon Connections collaborative project led by the
Pequena can stay at sea for over 30 days with a fuel range of
Nelson Mandela University. The RV Angra Pequena crew and
3 000 Nautical Miles.
science team were thrilled to find and film (using a remotely operated vehicle) a coelacanth in a deep canyon off Sodwana Bay, at 114 m – one of only 32 known individuals of this rare fossil fish in South Africa. An exciting new calling for this classic vessel is her central role in a four-part documentary series being filmed by the WILDOCEANS team in collaboration with the film company Off The Fence, including episodes on coelacanths and humpback whales. This film project aims to convey important conservation messages through stories about marine science and discovery expeditions. New species not known to science have been discovered and filmed in deeper mesophotic habitats live off the RV Angra Pequena during the expeditions off the east coast of South Africa, including a Seabat fish, a Cloaked hermit crab, and a Jellynose fish.
“ Oceanic research yacht
RV Angra Pequena provides a unique platform for offshore marine science and capacity-building, and conservation expeditions. 27
”28
Reflections | 2018
OCEAN STEWARDS Capacity-building marine scientists for our living oceans There are unprecedented threats facing the oceans, and in
WILDOCEANS has for the last five years partnered with the
South Africa, a lack of human capacity needed for effective
African Coelacanth Ecosystem Programme (ACEP) on their
protection of the oceans. The Ocean Stewards project aims
Spatial Solutions and Biodiversity Surrogacy projects and in
to build capacity in the sector, while contributing to important
2018 the Canyon Connections project, to provide students
scientific research that will help to build the case for protection
with experiential learning opportunities that contribute
of our coastlines.
to marine science in South Africa. By providing young
The Ocean Stewards project is funded by The Blue Fund, a joint enterprise between Grindrod and WILDOCEANS. It is also well supported by various partner organisations such as Ezemvelo, African Coelacanth Ecosystem Programme (ACEP), University of Kwa Zulu-Natal (UKZN), Nelson Mandela University (NMU), University of Zululand (UNIZUL), Oceanographic Research Institute (ORI), South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity
marine science students with a formative experiential journey, and giving them unique insights into ocean conservation, the initiative aims to inspire and motivate these students to pursue careers in marine science and conservation management. The project also offers ongoing mentorship and support for future study opportunities.
(SAIAB), South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI),
In 2017, 33 Ocean Stewards attended the annual three-
Natal Sharksboard (NSB), National Research Fund (NRF),
day science session hosted by UKZN and Grindrod Bank.
Department of Science and Technology, Department of
This forum exposes our marine students to the latest
Environmental Affairs (DEA) and Council of Geoscience (CGS).
conversations in marine science and conservation, and a
Since inception in 2015, the Ocean Stewards’ fellowship has grown to include 69 third-year, honours and masters students from five universities across the country. Ocean Stewards exposes students to offshore marine research and aims to create a growing community of new-generation ocean advocates.
chance to engage with South Africa’s top marine scientists and conservationists. In 2018, an additional 16 students were recruited. This year there was an increase in the intake at Honours level resulting in ten new Ocean Stewards at Honours level; six from the University of Zululand (UNIZUL) and four from the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), with a remaining six new Ocean Stewards joining this year who are all final year undergraduate marine biology students from UKZN. Ocean Stewards also participated in various events, training and activities through the year including an induction to the project, swimming lessons, beach clean-ups and public exhibitions such as the annual Welcoming of the Whales Festival in the Bluff, and World Oceans Day. Our future goals include expanding the Ocean Steward Fellowship as an active network of marine scientists and conservationists into the western Indian Ocean and a stronger focus on Ocean Stewards’ future careers in the sector.
2017 / 2018 IMPACT 16 Ocean Stewards
15
69
training days
Ocean Stewards since inception
29
bursaries provided
748
30
Reflections | 2018
2017 / 2018 IMPACT
WHALE TIME Linking marine conservation andecotourism The WILDOCEANS Whale Time project, with the support
In 2018, the Whale Time project, in collaboration with Sodurba,
of Grindrod Bank (through The Blue Fund) and the Water
saw the Bluff becoming Africa’s first Whale Heritage Site
Research Commission aims to bring science, conservation,
candidate. The goal is to develop this area into a signature eco-
tourism and community together around the iconic humpback
tourism enterprise with a strong conservation message. Going
whale species that migrates along the east coast of South
forward the Whale Time project hopes to continue coordinating
Africa annually. It provides benefits not only for conservation of
the long-term humpback whale monitoring census in Cape Vidal
the whales, but also for coastal communities who can become
while exploring new technologies and methods for monitoring
involved in ecotourism as whale ambassadors, helping to put
in Durban. Additionally, the project wants to maintain strong
the east coast whale migration on the map, both locally and
relationships with boat-based whale watching operators
globally.
to ensure the ongoing upskilling and creation of jobs
The Whale Time project coordinated and supported two
4
Whale Time guides
14
Whale Time guides since inception
1 permanent job 12 part-time jobs enabled 198
training days
for the Whale Time guides.
research projects this year:
Long-term monitoring survey Along with CPUT, Ezemvelo and Wildlife ACT, a long-term humpback whale population census was carried out at Cape Vidal in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park during their annual east coast migration. The survey was first initiated in 1988 to quantify the population increase as it recovers from commercial whaling. This is the third re-survey since its inception.
Humpback whale fluke catalogue In collaboration with the DEA, Ezemvelo, CPUT, and the Water Research Commission, a study has been initiated to investigate trends, threats and improved knowledge of the east coast humpback whale sub-population. Whale Time is collaborating with two local boat-based whale watching tour operators (Isle of Capri and Umhlanga Ocean Charters) to collect humpback whale tail images that are used to create a catalogue that identifies and studies this particular migrating sub-population. We remain active in the field of ecotourism. The Whale Time project continues to collaborate with the Port Natal Maritime Museum and the KZN Coastal College in training Whale Time tour guides. Through a strong relationship with the South Durban Tourism Association (Sodurba), an urban ecotourism route has been developed, centred around the rich history of whaling in Durban, the promotion of whale conservation, and the second annual Welcoming of Whales festival in the Bluff.
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Reflections | 2018
BLUE CREW Changing the tide of coastal pollution Funded and supported by the Gary Player Invitational (GPI),
beaches and mainly took place over weekends. The Durban
the Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA), The Blue Fund,
Blue Crew were also among the first responders in the
Grindrod Bank, Portnet, South 32 and Jonsson Workwear, the
nurdle spill crisis in October 2017. For a brief time, from
Blue Crew grew out of the Recycling for Life project. The Blue
January to April 2018, the Blue Crew expanded from its
Crew is a group of ladies who are deployed every day on the
normal four-person teams to include a massive team of 80
Durban and Richards Bay coast, to collect waste from beaches
people. 50 people from the expanded team worked in the
preventing it from getting washed back into the ocean. It’s
Durban harbour and 30 in the Cato Manor area where they
more than a beach cleaning exercise though; the objective is to
mainly cleaned the Mkhumbane river, a small tributary of
grow a network of people, previously excluded from economic
the Umbilo river that flows into the harbour. During the four
activity, who care about our shared marine environment and
months, 25 tons of waste was collected in a relatively small
who are actively involved in making a difference by collecting
section of the Durban Port.
waste on beaches and estuaries.
Going forward, we are actively working to enable the expansion
The Blue Crew assisted in numerous beach clean-ups during
of, and permanent deployment of the Blue Crew teams to clean
the year. These were supplementary to their daily work on
and care for our coastline.
2017 NURDLE SPILL Mobilising against a looming environmental disaster On the 10th of October 2017 the Durban Port experienced an extreme storm, during which the container ship MSC Susanna was involved in a collision with the MSC Innes, resulting in the loss of two containers containing plastic pellets (nurdles). It is estimated that over 2 200 million (49 tons) of these nurdles were released into the Port and were subsequently dispersed into the Indian Ocean along the entire eastern seaboard of South Africa. WILDOCEANS, along with other NGOs and civil society organisations launched an awareness and action campaign that has led to one of the largest plastic clean-up efforts in South Africa’s history. Nurdle deposits have been found from Tofo, in Mozambique to Yzerfontein in the Western Cape, SA. Dokodweni, northern KwaZulu-Natal has remained the area with the heaviest nurdle deposit to date. Between November 2017 and February 2018, the Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA) deployed 186 dedicated nurdle collection workers to their 389-strong Working for the Coast (WftC) team to 30 different beaches in KwaZulu-Natal. WILDOCEANS, South African Association for Marine Biological Research (SAAMBR) and the DEA distributed 250 clearly-marked bins and signage to various collection points along the entire South African coastline to ensure that the nurdles were disposed of properly and did not end up in landfills.
2017 / 2018 IMPACT 8
4
Durban Blue Crew
113
Blue Crew in place since inception
Richards Bay Blue Crew
Nurdles
13 714 kg
nurdles collected (28 %)
32 090 kg
waste collected
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Reflections | 2018
MARINE PROTECTED AREA EXPANSION #OnlyThisMuch This new WILDOCEANS project hopes to gain strategic wins for
Media coverage that the campaign generated in its first two
marine conservation in South African waters that will catalyse
months, is valued at R 321 800 with a print readership figure of
action across the region. The project is funded by ‘Oceans 5’
around 875 864 people (excluding online exposure / views).
and is a partnership with Ocean Unite, WWF-SA, Centre for Environmental Rights (CER) and the South African Association for Marine Biological Research (SAAMBR). The approach is both awareness and advocacy, with the goal of supporting and encouraging the achievement of the current Marine Protected Area (MPA) target of 5 % (and 22 new / expanded MPAs) before the end of 2018 and 10 % by 2020, towards a global target of 30 % strongly protected by 2030. It aims to build support amongst public and ocean stakeholders for MPAs by creating awareness of their value for provision of ecosystem services, ocean risk mitigation, food security, ecotourism benefits, moderation of climate change, and improving resilience to impacts of other global stressors. Underwriting the project is the #OnlyThisMuch campaign. This campaign highlights that only 0.4 % (i.e. only this much is ‘not enough’) of South Africa’s mainland ocean space is currently protected and raises a call-to-action for increasing the marine
On the 8th of June (World Oceans Day), WILDOCEANS hosted a celebratory event to launch the coalition and campaign. A keynote address was given by the Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA) Deputy Director General, Judy Beaumont, who welcomed the support for the expansion of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). The @OnlyThisMuchSA social media platforms were launched two weeks before this ‘official’ launch of the campaign. On the evening of the 8th of June event, Leonardo DiCaprio (16 547 687 Facebook followers) and the Leonardo DiCaprio Foundation (67 776 Facebook followers) showed their support of #OnlyThisMuchSA. The
overall
project
also
includes
elements
such
as
understanding the socio-economic value of MPAs compared to other uses of ocean space, and legal considerations linked to MPA proclamations and activities that pose a threat to the marine environment (such as oil & gas and marine mining).
protected area.
“ The #OnlyThisMuch
campaign highlights that only 0.4 % of South Africa’s mainland ocean space Join the movement: www.onlythismuch.co.za
”
is currently protected.
https://www.facebook.com/OnlyThisMuchSA/ https://twitter.com/OnlythismuchSA https://www.instagram.com/onlythismuchsa/
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36
Reflections | 2018
WILDENTERPRISE Underwriting Green and Blue Economy programmes Established in March 2011, WILDENTERPRISE (Pty) Ltd,
Manor depot, support for the nurdle pollution clean-
previously known as Wildlands Green-preneurs (Pty) Ltd,
up response and the Durban Harbour “Blue Port” pilot
is a black-owned social enterprise established to enable
project. Over the coming year, we’re looking forward to
the development of the Green Economy-based enterprise
the commissioning of a Pyrolysis demonstration plant,
opportunities emerging from the WILDTRUST activities. The
which will convert polypropylene into diesel, and the
network of Tree-preneurs and Waste-preneurs supported by
formal development of our ‘Green’ and ‘Blue’ projects
the Trust hold a 60 % shareholding in the company through the
which will allow for the use of non-recyclable plastic
Wildlands Green Community Development Trust. The balance
in the production of building bricks.
of the shareholding is held by the WILDTRUST. This past year WILDENTERPRISE received Enterprise Development grant support from Africa Corridor, the BBF Safety Group, Container World, the Polystyrene Council, South 32, Talbot & Talbot, Tandem Lawn Industries and Unilever Plc South Africa.
The Somkhanda team have worked hard to enable the ongoing establishment of the reserve as a wellmanaged ‘Big 5’ reserve that will underwrite the local economic development of the Gumbi land claimants and extended community. A highlight
Set up as an Enterprise Development beneficiary and
was the signing of a new 10-year co-management
recognised as an empowering supplier in terms of the
and development agreement for the reserve with the
Broad-based
Emvokweni Community Trust, which will allow us to work
Black
Economic
Empowerment
Code,
WILDENTERPRISE is an Exempt Micro Enterprise company
with the Trust to develop and implement Wildlife Economy-
with a B-BBEE level 2.
based opportunities in and around the reserve, including
Over the past year, the core focus has been on the extended Recycling for Life operation, Somkhanda Community Game Reserve, the establishment of an accredited Training unit and the initiation of our first formal film project, the “Our Oceans” natural history documentary series. The Recycling for Life team have continued to grow their activities organically, supporting their network of Wastepreneurs, schools and businesses, assembling and delivering Green Desks and continuously innovating. Highlights have been the commissioning of a polystyrene extruder at the Cato
hunting, voluntourism, ecotourism and community-based training and sustainability projects. The Somkhanda project is evolving into a benchmark initiative that will underwrite local community sustainability, whilst anchoring the establishment of a new conservation corridor that will significantly expand the Lubombo Transfrontier Conservation area. In line with our vision of empowerment, training has been a core service that we have provided to our teams and beneficiaries. This last year has seen us embark on a journey to develop a range of accredited training programmes that we can offer through WILDENTERPRISE to our WILDTRUST programmes, our donors and our partners. The first of these trainings is a 12-week New Venture Creation skills programme which has been accredited through the ServicesSETA. In this first year of roll-out, over 60 northern KwaZulu-Natal community individuals will be the beneficiaries of this accredited training programme, supported by the Walmart Foundation. In order to increase our offering, we are in the process of extending the scope of our accredited training programmes to include a National Certificate in Plant Production through the AgriSETA and a National Certificate in Nature Conservation: Resource Guardianship through the CathSETA.
37
The ‘Our Oceans’ project is an exciting new venture. It builds
their journeys of discovery to find and protect coelacanths,
on our Blood Lions®’ film experience and aims to underwrite
humpback whales and hammerhead sharks. We believe this is
the development of the WILDOCEANS programme. The ‘Our
the start of a new conservation journey and look forward to a
Oceans’ project will enable the production and distribution
number of film-based projects that will profile and underwrite
of four documentaries, profiling the wisdom of South Africa’s
the impact of the WILDTRUST’s programmes.
marine scientists, the potential of our Ocean Stewards and
38
Reflections | 2018
LEARNING & DEVELOPMENT Schools, Ambassadors & Training Building capacity for sustainable futures While most of the WILDTRUST projects focus on transforming ecosystems and empowering the people impacted by this, the WILDTRUST Learning & Development projects seek to address a shift in values, thinking and knowledge that is required to make the changes sustainable in the longer term, and to provide the capacity to lead us into a sustainable future. This is executed through three primary platforms: our Sustainable Schools Project; our Ubuntu Earth Ambassadors Initiative; and the accredited and non-accredited Training Programmes that we run with our teams, schools and community beneficiaries.
Sustainable Schools Our vision for the Sustainable Schools project is to see schools actively engaged in sustainability solutions, both within the
Ubuntu Earth Ambassadors
school system and into each learner’s home. With the support
The Ubuntu Earth Ambassadors initiative was started as a
The project promotes greater understanding of environmental
of Nedbank and South32, we engaged schools in recycling
pilot project funded by Rand Merchant Bank, with the aim of
wonders, challenges and opportunities; access to the Green
and recycling awareness talks, permaculture training and
developing a lasting sustainability ethic in the communities
Economy through
mentorship and financial literacy training.
where we work. It is now active in 18 communities across
environmental career guidance and inspiring and motivating
KwaZulu-Natal and the Western Cape. The aim is to inspire
behaviour change in our existing ecosystem restoration and
Ambassadors, recruited from the communities where we
stewardship teams and interested community members. A
work, to be active citizens through capacity building about
key focus for the year ahead will be identifying opportunities
leadership, promoting environmental understanding and the
to include people with disabilities in the project activities and
opportunities of the Green Economy and changing behaviours
to extend the initiative to coastal regions, incorporating our
necessary for sustainability. Our ambassadors touch the lives
WILDOCEANS programme.
innovative
small business
solutions,
of around 4 500 people annually including WILDTRUST teams and learners, teachers and community members.
2017 / 2018 IMPACT: Sustainable Schools 260 schools 20 000 learners
509 673 kg recyclable waste collected R 156 383 recycling rebates
70 citizen days 2 610 people
=
2 610 training days
12 883 kg of second hand clothes collected R 80 143 clothes rebates
1 831 Green Desks distributed 92 schools.
64 team workshops 167 people
=
1 007 training days
3 271 learners
206 learners & staff
2 Indabas 20 people
=
152 training days
StarSaver financial literacy training
39
2017 / 2018 IMPACT: Ubuntu Earth Ambassadors
permaculture training & mentorship
40
Reflections | 2018
MARKETING
Training
Driving campaigns that truly make a difference
New Venture Creation Accredited Training This last year saw the introduction of the first of the
Small Business Skills training to address the small business
This past year saw the Wildlands Conservation Trust undergo
WILDTRUST’s accredited training programmes, establishing us
creation requirements of our donors, partners, team members
a brand restructure which will significantly inform and shape
as an accredited training provider with the ServicesSETA. The
and community beneficiaries.
our ongoing growth and ability to make a substantial, and
New Venture Creation (NVC) training programme offered by the WILDTRUST will ensure that we’re able to provide accredited
sustainable difference to communities and the environment. Over the next three years the New Venture Creation training
Core Campaigns Old Mutual Two Oceans Marathon, Comrades Marathon & Soweto Marathon WILDLANDS was once again invited to activate at these three
programme, with the support of the Walmart Foundation, will
Wildlands Conservation Trust, now known as WILDTRUST,
Old Mutual-sponsored events over the last year. We benefitted
address a need in three of South Africa’s most impoverished
delivers the realisation of its vision through two core
not only through runners selecting us as their preferred charity,
rural
programmes;
terrestrial
and therefore allocating a percentage of their entry fee to us,
eSikhawini, Mandlakazi and KwaJobe, to provide an opportunity
conservation and sustainable community initiatives, and the
but also through the sale of branded merchandise at their
for individuals, recruited from WILDLANDS’ legacy Green-
new WILDOCEANS programme, which consolidates the
pre-event expos. In addition, we successfully activated the
preneur networks to start and sustainably establish their
existing marine and coastal conservation work and enables
#GOGREEN campaign at the Two Oceans and Comrades
own small businesses. The provision of this training will be
the expansion of support for the ocean environment, and
Marathons and were visibly involved in the collection of waste
complemented with mentorship support and start-up stock. In
the
communities.
along the route of both events. As a result, we will produce 800
so doing we will help these individuals secure a supplementary
WILDENTERPRISE is the new brand name for our Enterprise
double Green Desks in partnership with Polyco for distribution
livelihood for themselves and their extended family unit.
Development arm, previously known as Wildlands Green-
to under-resourced local schools over the coming year. Our
preneurs Pty Ltd – established in 2011.
involvement in these events helped us to raise just under
communities
in
northern
KwaZulu-Natal,
namely
Financial Literacy
sustainable
WILDLANDS,
development
focused
of
on
coastal
In support of the new brand structure, we have adopted the
R 650 000 for our Conservation and Sustainable Communities initiatives.
This training offers tools to understand the difference between
“We’re for The WILD” statement of intent, which captures the
needs and wants, personal budgeting and setting financial
spirit, commitment and common purpose of the WILDTRUST
goals. This training has two levels; StarSaver which focuses
team. Building the WILDTRUST brand as an established,
on learners from Grade 6 – 8 and Consumer Financial Literacy
credible environmental organisation is key for the coming year.
This year, WILDLANDS was selected again as one of the official
targeted at our community beneficiaries.
This in turn should see an increase in investment from donors
charities that benefitted from the 8 Mile Club through the aQuélle
who wish to support the work we do.
Midmar Mile, the world’s largest open water swim. The 17 brave
Leadership Training
aQuélle Midmar Mile
WILDLANDS 8 Mile swimmers, led by Stan Kozlowski raised
This training offers a range of topics for participants to improve
R 217 602 for the Somkhanda rhino conservation projects.
their self-awareness and self-reflection capacity, promote self-generated learning, identify and reflect their own values, goals and leadership styles, adopt a professional approach and develop their communication and relationship skills in the workplace.
2017 / 2018 IMPACT: Training 29 leadership training sessions = 624 learners 64 financial literacy sessions 3 271 learners
=
719 training days 3 271 training days
1 481 NVC training days 62 learners 41
42
Reflections | 2018
Different.org #WHATIF Campaign
In partnership with USA Humane Society International (HSI) a
Based on the premise of ‘WHAT IF what I am already doing
digital media ‘action alert” around the Blood Lions® ‘Born to Live
could benefit someone less fortunate than myself?’, the
Wild’ tourism pledge garnered 113 000 signatures from across
#WHATIF campaign encouraged individuals to become
America. Blood Lions® ‘Born to Live Wild’ tourism campaign
activists by completing sign-up, exercise and fundraising
won joint “Overall Winner” at ARTA17 (African Responsible
challenges. In completing these challenges, each WILDLANDS
Tourism Awards) and the Gold Award for ‘Best Responsible
activist received donations from Different.org, raising R 51 790
Tourism Campaign’. In the last year the film was also selected
for our WILDLANDS Trees for Life initiative.. Sbahle Mpisane
for several film festivals including the Reel Earth Film Festival
(AKA Fitness Bunny), celebrity and social media influencer
(New Zealand), Another Way Film Festival (Spain) and Mostra
campaigned on our behalf, appearing on #WHATIF billboards
International Film Festival (Brazil).
in Johannesburg.
Different.org Crowdfunding Campaigns
Nature, Environment and Wildlife Filmmakers Congress (NEWF)
Different.org raised over R 80 000 for the Blood Lions®
The WILDTRUST and Grindrod Bank were founding partners in
campaign to support the amplification of their message and
the inaugural NEWF Congress held at Durban Botanic Gardens
spreading awareness about cub petting, predator breeding
in July 2017. The Congress inspires discussion driven by
and canned hunting. This powerful crowdfunding platform
natural resource conservation within the African context while
also raised more than R 180 000 for a wild lion translocation to
promoting a growing awareness of the natural environment and
Somkhanda Community Game Reserve.
the need for its protection.
Gary Player Invitational (GPI) The Gary Player Invitational is South Africa’s premiere charity golf event which brings together professional golfers, celebrities and leading businessmen from around the world. All proceeds raised from the event go to selected charity beneficiaries including Wings & Wishes and WILDLANDS. In 2017, R 1.4 million was raised for WILDLANDS which will go towards uplifting WILDLANDS’ female Waste-preneurs as the
The WILDTRUST and Off The Fence, a world-class production company, crossed paths at NEWF 2017 and went on to discuss a documentary series. Currently in the production phase the series is titled ‘Our Oceans’. This marine documentary series will profile our WILDOCEANS expeditions, raise awareness and knowledge about the western Indian Ocean’s marine ecosystems, charismatic animals and share the learning journey of the scientists and Ocean Stewards on-board the RV Angra Pequena. The series is set for release in early 2019.
Gary Player Invitational believes that working with and investing in women is one of the most powerful ways to spur sustainable economic growth and development.
BLOOD LIONS® Since the film’s release in 2015, the Blood Lions® social media campaign reaches close on 80 000 people per week. The film is now available on additional VOD channels including
All Media
Ecostreamz and Showmax. The 54-minute TV edit of the film
R 22 821 190
is also still aired on Discovery, MSNBC, TV Ontario, RTK, N-TV
total media coverage
and SABC. Blood Lions® has held over 120 screenings in 22 countries and now also has Hebrew and Portuguese subtitled versions. Blood Lions® has contributed funding to Phinda Game
R 10 552 029 in online marketing
R 10 895 330
R 1 373 831
in print media
in broadcast coverage
Reserve’s lion expansion project with a wild lion reintroduction into Somkhanda Community Game Reserve.
Find us on our revamped social media platforms and new website: www.wildtrust.co.za
43
@WILDLANDSConservationTrust
@WILDLANDSSA
@WILDLANDSSA
@WILDOCEANSSA
@WildoceansSA
@WildoceansSA
44
Reflections | 2018
OUR PEOPLE Passionate wild champions for a sustainable future At the heart of the WILDTRUST’s vision is the WILDTRUST
Transformation is a priority for the Trust. We continued to
team who deliver the organisation’s programmes with passion
maintain a Broad-based Black Economic Empowerment level 3
and commitment. During the 2017-2018 financial year, the
as a QSE entity, and we are recognised as an empowering
WILDTRUST created 6 159 employment opportunities across
supplier.
the country. Of these, 54 are current permanent staff, with the remaining employed on a fixed-term basis. The majority of fixedterm contracts (4 879) were funded through the Department of Public Works Infrastructure Programme to work at cleaning and greening rural schools across the province. The empowerment and development of our teams is crucial to the success of the organisation. This year the WILDTRUST supported three core team members with their postgraduate studies and provided training to 15 core team members across a range of subjects including: Effective Delegation Training, Excel, First Aid, SHE Rep. Training, Presentation Skills and Fire Training.
WILDTRUST EMPLOYEES African
Coloured
6 108
7
Indians
Whites
11
33
Female
Male
4 264
1 895
Permanent
Fixed term
54
6 105
Total
6 159
The WILDTRUST facilitates a range of bursaries and awards to
The WILDTRUST also regularly participates in learnerships and
recognise students for their commitment to conservation and
internships which promote the development of careers in the
the environment.
environmental sector.
l
l
l
To continue his legacy, the Pierre Neethling bursary went to
Over this last year, four post-graduate students came on
Amy Grant Marshall, who completed her PHD studies on the
board as part of the WWF Internship Programme. Of these,
sustainable harvesting of Marula fruit.
three have continued with permanent employment at the
Two bursaries have been awarded from the WILDTRUST’s
WILDTRUST.
Conservation Capital Fund to Sarisha Ramanand for her
l Through
the Green Skills Academy, the WILDTRUST
PhD on the WILDTRUST’s CEBA framework, and to Oscar
supported five learners with a six-month practical workplace
Mtimkhulu for his PHD on Investigating Leadership Influence,
experience needed to complete their learnerships in
Governance and Institutional Support to Natural Resource
Environmental Management NQF Level 5.
Management in KZN.
l
Starting in February this year, Talbot & Talbot also supported a
the WILDTRUST’s Conservation Capital Fund
learnership for one disabled individual. Bongani Ntshangase
enables two Premier’s Awards at the Conservation
is completing a National Certificate in Freight Handling
Symposium. In 2017 this was awarded to Nantale Nsibirwa
and has been working for two days a week supporting the
for putting forward the best student paper by a UKZN
WILDLANDS’ stock control team.
l Annually
student. Her prize was attendance at the International River Symposium in Sydney, Australia. l
Through funding received from The Blue Fund in partnership with Grindrod Bank, the WILDOCEANS Ocean Stewards project has provided bursaries to 15 post-graduate students in the marine science field since inception of the project.
45
46
Reflections | 2018
FINANCE & INVESTMENTS
DONORS
Investments
International Endowment Fund
Thank you to the following donors who have contributed over the past year, enabling the WILDTRUST vision of a “Sustainable Future for All”.
The WILDTRUST investments are classified into three
The WILDTRUST continues to be the sole beneficiary of
categories, namely:
an Endowment Fund, which is managed by FIM Capital
Above R100 000
Above R500 000
Limited and was established through a donation endowment
African Coelacanth Ecosystem Programme (ACEP)
Department of Environmental Affairs KZN Department of Public Works eThekwini Municipality Gary Player Foundation Global Nature Fund Grindrod Bank Jonsson Workwear Makro Nedbank Limited Old Mutual Oceans 5 Polyco Rand Merchant Bank Richards Bay Coal Terminal Rockerfeller Philanthropy Advisors SANParks South 32 SWEDBIO The Walmart Foundation Tongaat Hulett Developments Umfulana Unilever South Africa WWF SA / The Green Trust
The Blue Fund
secured by the late Robin James. In September last year, the
Utilised for the funding of our special project activities with
Amcor
WILDTRUST through its WILDOCEANS programme purchased
relation to the restoration and sustainable development
8 Mile Club
the historic conservation research and expedition vessel,
of our coastal communities and marine ecosystems and
Belgotex
the ‘RV Angra Pequena’ at a cost of R 3.8m with funds drawn
underwrites our WILDOCEANS programme.
Cecil Renaud Charitable Trust
from the WILDTRUST’s International Endowment Fund. This
Comrades Marathon Association
Endowment Fund is now closed, and we express our sincere
Container World (Pty) Ltd
gratitude to Robin James who remained a devoted benefactor
Different.Org
of the WILDTRUST during his time.
Distell Ltd
The Conservation Capital Fund Underwrites our WILDLANDS programme and is utilised for the funding of other special-project activities related to promoting and enabling South Africa’s Biodiversity Economy,
Empowers Africa
Finances
supporting and shaping Ecological Restoration interventions
Future Farmers Foundation
Over the past year, the WILDTRUST raised a total of R 109.7m
Hans Hoheisen Charitable Trust
of which R 102.6m was generated through fundraising and
Kirvil M Skinnarland
R 7.1m through investment and other activities. We spent
Lamont Will Trust
R 8.8m (8% of total income raised) on core operational support.
Mad Swimmers
The General Trust Fund
R 99.4m was spent on our WILDLANDS programme, enabling
National Lotteries Fund
Utilised to fund the core operations of the WILDTRUST.
South Africa’s Biodiversity Economy, supporting and shaping
Remgro Ltd
Ecological Restoration interventions, and catalysing and
South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity (SAIAB)
encouraging Sustainable Communities, which had a direct,
Two Oceans Marathon Association
that repair and restore the ecosystems that support us, and catalysing and encouraging Sustainable Communities across our programme footprint.
At 30 th June 2018, the WILDTRUST’s General Trust Fund managed by Ewing’s Trust Company; the Conservation Capital
on the ground impact in our communities. R 10.3m was spent
Fund, and The Blue Fund managed by Bridge Private Clients,
on our WILDOCEANS programme to improve our knowledge
had a total market value of R 92m (2017: R 85m).
of our South African marine ecosystems and to develop the capacity of a new generation of marine scientists, managers and policy makers.
9%
R 10 324 476
WILDOCEANS
R 57 755 261
Contributors We’d like to thank the following talented individuals for capturing our work so beautifully:
7%
49%
2% R2 463 069 3%
WILDSERIES
10%
Biodivesity Economy
20%
Ecological Restoration
James Suter of Black Bean Productions • Steve Benjamin Fundraising
Core Operational Support
Sustainable Communities
Jordan Milton of Milton Media • Sven Musica of Phonix Capture • Kelvin Trautman • Kirsten Oliver
R 8 806 336
R 12 050 234
R 3 609 655
The Whalley Collective • Paarl Media
53 5353
R 23 575 022
78 7878
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2
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1 575 1 575 1 575 47
8 88
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8787 87
8787 87
48
Suite 8 | Office Park 1 | Quarry Shopping Centre | Hilton Avenue | 3245 PO Box 1138 | Hilton | 3245 | South Africa | Tel. +27 (0) 33 343 6380 | Fax +27 (0) 33 343 1976 | Email: info@wildtrust.co.za
EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBERS: Mr Andile Ncontsa (Chairman), Mr Peter Bode, Mr Aroon Patel, Mrs Phillida Ellis, Mr Emmanuel Phakathi, Mrs Heidi Newton-King, Ms Busisiwe Kuzwayo, Ms Mohlago Mokgohloa NON EXECUTIVE MEMBERS: Mr Iqbal Hirji, Mr Peter Rutsch PATRONS: Dr George Hughes, Dr Mangosuthu Buthelezi, Mr Pat Goss CEO: Dr Andrew Venter | EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS: Dr Jean Harris, Dr Roelie Kloppers NPO:004-949 PBO 18/11/13/1485
7030 THE WHALLEY COLLECTIVE
www.wildtrust.co.za