Responsible Traveller mag - edition 2 - 2017

R E S P O N S I B L E edition 2 – 2017

be the difference

Celebrate Africa...

H i s t o r y, H e r it a g e . . .

Communities and Conservation

w w w. re s p o n s i b l e t rave l l e r. c o. z a

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Comment Welcome to another edition of Responsible Traveller.

In this edition we celebrate Africa...

And more specifically the winners of the African Responsible Tourism Awards 2017 held at WTM Africa in April. With winners from a number of African countries, we get to ‘travel’ far and wide and experience their best practice examples of how to do responsible tourism well. Be inspired by their stories and encouraged to take responsibility for your impact on communites, conservation and the environment.

Be moved by history as you read about my visit to Isandlwana Lodge on the KZN Battlefields, be amazed by nature as we follow the accounts of orca predation on great white sharks in Gansbaai and be inspired by the life and art of the local community at Madi a Thavha Mountain Lodge. We learn about conserving ‘through restitution and growth’ at iSimangaliso Wetland Park, South Africa’s first World Heritage Site, and we were reminded by SA Tourism at INDABA 2017 that when #WeDoTourism right everyone’s a winner.

But as I always say, the responsibility of being a responsible traveller lies ultimately with the person travelling and the choices they make. It’s about choosing to not waste water , to switch off when you leave the room, to stay, shop, experience and eat local... thereby providing employment and contributing to the local economy. By choosing to have conversations with locals and experiencing the ‘real’ destination, you add value and return home with irreplaceable memories.

Enjoy the read… and be the difference.

tessa Magazine Information edition 2 - 2017 Publisher / Editor Tessa Buhrmann Cell: 083 603 9000 tessa@responsibletraveller.co.za Design & Layout Michele Mayer Cell: 082 934 6940 creativelink@mweb.co.za Advertising & editorial enquiries info@responsibletraveller.co.za Digital Subscriptions info@responsibletraveller www.responsibletraveller.co.za

Responsible Traveller Published by Spotted Mongoose Media CC (CK 2008/178482/23) Contact Details P.O. Box 3, Gillitts 3603 KwaZulu-Natal South Africa Tel: +27 31 7674022 Fax: +27 86 542 9615 Publication details Responsible Traveller DIGITAL is published bi-monthly

Cover Image: Local community, Isandlwana pic - Tessa Buhrmann

Disclaimer Responsible Traveller is published by Spotted Mongoose Media CC. The information provided and the opinions expressed in this publication are done so in good faith and while every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of its contents, neither the managing editor nor the publisher can be held responsible for any omissions or errors; or for any misfortune, injury or damages that may arise. All rights are reserved and no material from this magazine may be reproduced without the written consent of the publishers.

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Contents Regulars: Comment

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Being a Responsible Traveller 06 Travel News from the market place 74

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Special ARTA 2017 feature: African Responsible Tourism Awards... winners

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Destinations & Places to Stay: Isandlwana... a story of heartache and hope

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Cape Town... walking tours 16

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Conservation & Community Profile: Deceased! Great white sharks and Orca predation 46 iSimangaliso, developing to conserve 68

News:

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Shamwari Game Reserve beach clean up

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Fair Trade Tourism welcomes Hotel Verde

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Rwanda announces increas in price of Gorilla Permits

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Etihad Cargo & Intradco Global bring rhinos home

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International Awards for iSimangaliso’s Andrew Zaloumis

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www.responsibletraveller.co.za 04 responsible traveller

Being a

Responsible Traveller

Responsible travel is a way of enjoying the many sights, experiences and memories of the destination you have chosen. It ensures that visitors and local communities alike share the benefits of tourism and travel equally, and it promotes greater understanding of and appreciation for fair and equitable business practice. Responsible travel is about putting back into travel what you get from it, and here are a few considerations that you could make when next you travel.

• Ask to see your tour operator's responsible travel policy.

• Ask to see the environmental policy of the accommodation establishment that you have selected – don’t be fooled by vague and unsubstantiated claims.

• Help the local economy by buying local produce in preference to imported goods.

• Ask your tour operator to establish the extent to which local communities enjoy benefits from your economic spend during your stay at a location.

• If bargaining to buy an item, bear in mind that a small amount to you could be extremely important to the seller – be realistic and fair.

• Realise that often the people in the country you are visiting have different time concepts, values and thought patterns from your own, this does not make them inferior, only different.

• Cultivate the habit of asking questions and discover the pleasure that you can enjoy by seeing a different way of life through others eyes.

• Use public transport, hire a bike or walk where convenient – you'll meet local people and get to know the place far better – always be safe and considerate.

• Use water sparingly – it is precious inmany countries and the local people may not have sufficient clean water – challenge any wasteful practice at your hotel or lodge.

• Switch Something Off – whenever you leave your room, switch unnecessary lights and equipment off and play your part in reducing greenhouse emissions.

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• Don't discard litter when visiting outof-the-way places and attractions, take it with you and dispose of it at your hotel or lodge. Waste disposal is often a major problem at outlying attractions and sites and it leads to litter and unhealthy environments for locals.

• Respect local cultures, traditions and holy places. For example, ask permission before you photograph local people – in some countries it can cause offence.

• Learn more about the cultural experiences that you are exposed to – avoid ‘sound-byte’ tourism and encourage tour operators to provide more insight into the dances, songs and traditionalexperiences that they present to you.

• Do not buy products made from endangered species, hard woods, shells from beach traders, or ancient artefacts (which have probably beenstolen). When visiting gift and curio shops, be aware of the source of the products on sale and if in doubt, don’t buy.

• Read up on the countries you plan to visit – the welcome will be warmer if you take an interest and speak even a few words of the local language.

• When you get home drop your tour operator a note to let them know how you got on.

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Isandlwana‌ a story of heartache and hope

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was a chilly evening as the day gave way to night. The blanket helped, as did a glass of sherry‌ but the enormity of that fateful day in 1879 sent shivers down my spine. Especially as we were standing atop the iNyoni hill, the very spot where tens of thousands of Zulu warriors had lain low, waiting for the following day. In the valley below, on the Eastern slope of the Isandlwana hill, was the British camp – completely unaware of the bloodshed that dawn would bring. words & pics - Tessa Buhrmann

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For any history buff a visit to the KwaZuluNatal Battlefields region is a must. And to walk the battlefields of Isandlwana and Rorkes Drift essential. Whilst there are a number of accommodation options available in the region, none offers you an immersive experience better than Isandlwana Lodge. The Lodge is uniquely placed, tucked into the iNyoni rockface and with expansive views over the Isandlwana battlefield.

The Isandlwana Battlefield

Historian and epic story-teller Lindizwe Ngobese (aka Dalton) brought to life, not only the experiences of that day, but filled the gaps with insight into what led to the battle in the first place. Being a Zulu himself, and the greatgrandson Inkosi Sihayo (a significant player in these parts during the Anglo-Zulu War of 1879), he was able to infuse the Zulu perspective into his narrative. But having said that, when he was relating the British side of the story he was profoundly British.

‘There is a hush about us, I consider the loss, not just to British and Zulu life, but to humanity as a whole...’

The shivers of the night before were nothing compared to the emotions I felt walking on the Isandlwana Battlefield. I see a pile of white stones. Dalton tells us that this pile is not just the memorial to one death, but many – an unmarked grave. I look up, and see many more such piles. The extent of this horror, and the futility of war a reality.

There are memorials, the names representing the nameless. There is a hush about us. I consider the loss, not just to British and Zulu life, but to humanity as a whole. Why is war such an integral part of the human psyche?

And we weren’t done yet...

The Battle of Isandlwana was the first major confrontation between Brit and Zulu. It began on the 22 January 1879, at around midday. On a day when the moon eclipsed the sun, the ‘day of the 10 responsible traveller

The memorial to fallen Zulu warriors at Isandlwana

The hospital at Rorkes Drift is now the Museum and visitor centre

In rapt attention listening to Dalton relate the Battle of Rorke’s Drift

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Images on this page - Isandlwana LodgeŠ

The dining area... and the large supporting pillars

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The deck off our suite

dead moon’. The British soldiers were no doubt weary, and hot - their red uniforms designed for the cooler climes of the northern Hemisphere.

This was to be the Zulu Nation’s greatest victory.

Of the 1,412 British soldiers, only 55 survived. The Zulu army are thought to have suffered the loss of around 1,000 men.

In the late afternoon of that very same day, the second battle of that historic day commenced.

Fresh from their victory, a group of around 4,000 Zulu soldiers advanced on the mission station and trading post at Rorke’s Drift. Alerted by two surviving soldiers from Isandlwana, the small garrison of about 150 soldiers set about fortifying their position.

The defence began at about 4:30 pm, where wave after wave of Zulu warriors stormed the garrison.

The British amazingly survived the onslaught, losing only 16 men. After the battle 351 Zulu bodies were counted.

At both Isandlwana and Rorkes Drift one gets to remember the lost from both sides. Sadly the memorials to the Zulu’s who lost their lives is a fairly recent addition.

We surveyed the memorial to the fallen Zulu warriors at Isandlwana Hill. Dalton explains that the impressive brass structure is that of a traditional Zulu warrior’s necklace, and that the tree planted alongside is that of the Buffalo thorn – a tree with historic and cultural significance.

A branch of the tree, with the Zulu name umLahlabantu meaning “that which buries the Chief”, is used to retrieve the spirit of a deceased person from where he died.

A view over Isandlwana Lodge and across the valley

‘Our visit was not just one of remembering the heartache of that fateful day, but one of celebrating hope...’

In the distance under the shadow of the Isandlwana hill is a group of Zulu men paying tribute to family members that were lost in the battle – a fitting way to end our day on the Battlefields.

Our visit was not just one of remembering the heartache of that fateful day, but one of celebrating hope. Of celebrating the brave actions of two unlikely American women who set about creating a lodge in rural KwaZuluNatal. Two women who met on an aeroplane in 1996, and decided to build an architecturally and environmentally sound lodge high on the iNyoni rockface.

A few technicalities and a simple handshake with the Inkosi of the Mangwe Buthanani Tribe created a partnership that has brought employment to the local community and revenue to the tribal responsible traveller 13

trust for use in building schools, clinics and enhancing the life of villagers. In addition to this Isandlwana Lodge works closely with rural development agency Africa!Ignite on building opportunities for people (predominantly women and youth) in the village. This is done by helping them to: establish viable enterprises to earn a fair income, acquire knowledge and skills, protect their rights, and to tell their amazing stories.

This partnership has also resulted in the creation of the WOWZULU Marketplace at Isandlwana Museum. Crafters are provided enterprise development skills in the form of capacity building, product development and access to market. Guests can buy locally made crafts and listen with rapt attention to story-teller Mcebisi Mthembu, a local youth trained in the art of performance storytelling.

Guests are able to contribute to the ‘Adopt-aChild’ programme, where they get to sponsor the annual school fees and uniforms of a needy child from Isandlwana Primary School. The recipient is chosen in consultation with the school and local Tribal Council, with emphasis on the most needy in the community. Contributions to aid the provision of infrastructure and equipment for the poor rural schools is also welcome.

The village walk tour offered by the Lodge provides guests an insight into rural life. It is led by a local person, and includes activities that are taking place at the time, a visit to an uMuzi (family home), a local school – where the kids will delight in performing a song and dance routine that has been handed down to them by their parents and grandparents.

Visits include the local Sangoma (diviner), Inyanga (herbal doctor) and the local St Vincent Church, built to commemorate the Battle of Isandlwana.

Revenue from these walks pays the local guide and is given to the village establishments who hosted the tour.

Back at the shield-shaped lodge, with its thatch roof and local rock walls, I cannot help but notice the heavy wooden columns supporting the roof.

These heavy columns were once part of the old West Street Pier in Durban… each one now named after a Zulu commander or significant person in the chain of command during the Anglo-Zulu War. I smile at the irony…Durban has in the past been referred to as ‘the last British outpost’. •

www.isandlwana.co.za responsible traveller 14

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CAPE TOWN ... walking 10 000 miles in a city’s shoes words & pics - Cape Town Tourism

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here’s a Chinese proverb that says, “Walking 10 000 miles of the world is better than reading 10 000 scrolls of books”. And it’s true: there may be no better way to see a town, city, or anywhere else, than on foot. What you get from whizzing, or even slowly cruising, by in a car cannot match the experience you will have when you walk an area flat.

When you travel to any city in the world, you should take at least a day to simply walk the streets and find hidden gems off the well-worn tourist trails. In many major cities, you will find a variety of walking tours on offer – with expert guides on hand to help you find those little gems.

You definitely won’t get the same sights, sounds and smells from any vehicle.

Cape Town is no exception. Whether you’re a tourist or a local, the city has so much to offer – and you can never do too much exploring!

Enver Duminy, CEO of Cape Town Tourism (CTT), says Cape Town’s CBD is relatively small, and therefore can be easily explored on foot. It’s for this reason that the organisation endorses a number of free walking tours offered by local tour companies.

“You can choose from a wide variety of tours, with no formal charge. These are well-structured walking tours, led by a guide, and the tourist is asked only to provide a tip,” Duminy explains.

“Tours take just a couple of hours out of your day, and they are worth it for the insight you will gain into our city.”

Explore historic District Six for a “real history lesson” on the Apartheid era, forced removals, and a glimpse into what this thriving area was once like. Take a stroll through the Bo-Kaap area to see the brightly-coloured houses on the hill up close, sample delicious local delicacies, and take in the views of the city – and the smells of aromatic spices. Or go on a historic tour of the city centre, taking in museums, local landmarks, and gardens, while learning about the rich history of the Cape of Good Hope.

Don’t forget to look up while you’re walking, as anywhere in the CBD you will be treated to breath-taking views of Lion’s Head and Signal Hill, Devil’s Peak and, of course, Table Mountain.

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Or, if you happen to look down and wonder what’s below those streets you’re trampling on, consider a tour of the underground tunnels of Cape Town. These paid-for tours allow you to explore the underground canals and rivers that run beneath the city, and learn about how they have been used historically.

Wherever you choose to explore, don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes, bring a bottle of water, and maybe pack some blister plasters just in case. Enjoy! • www.capetown.travel

Click here for FREE WALKING TOURS CAPE TOWN

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AFRICAN RESPONSIBLE TOURISM AWARDS

African Responsible Tourism Awards

Image - Coffe Shack Backpackers / M. Wright©

and the winners are...

Learning local skills at Coffee Shack Backpackers

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AFRICAN RESPONSIBLE TOURISM AWARDS

n a special ceremony at World Travel Market Africa 2017, a hard-hitting documentary on the plight of lions in tourism and a small backpacker lodge with ample impact were announced Joint Overall Winners at the African Responsible Tourism Awards 2017 in Cape Town. Blood Lions and Coffee Shack took the coveted position of Overall Winner from a selection of finalists gathered from around Africa.

Says Harold Goodwin, Chair of the Judging Panel. “All of those longlisted should be recognised as having made a significant contribution and be proud of what they have achieved. As in the World Responsible Tourism Awards, the judges looked for winners who might educate and inspire others, challenging the industry to achieve more by demonstrating what can be done by businesses and organisations to realise the ambition of Responsible Tourism. That ambition is simply put: to use tourism to make better places for people to live in. This also benefits the industry: great places to live are great places to visit.

In this International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development, the industry needs to recognise that we need to be a lot more transparent about credibly reporting the positive impacts that businesses in the tourism sector have on peoples’ livelihoods and wellbeing – we need to up our game and prove the claims we make. This year’s global Responsible Tourism Awards will be announced next month – in this International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development, there is a particular emphasis on the SDGs. The judges were mindful of the Awards made in previous years in Africa and in the World Responsible Tourism Awards, of which these African Awards are a part. The Gold and Silver

Award winners should be particularly proud of what they have achieved; they have been recognised as being leaders in a Responsible Tourism movement where more is expected each year.

If when reflecting on the winners of these and the World Responsible Tourism Awards you know of others you feel should be recognised then please encourage them to enter, the judges can only choose from amongst those who enter and complete the extensive application process. We encourage them, and other businesses, to continue to take responsibility for increasing the positive and reducing the negative, impacts of tourism; to communicate what they are doing to use tourism to make better places and to consider entering the Responsible Tourism Awards when there is an appropriate category for their business or organisation.”

Speaking before a packed audience of over 100 tourism professionals, media, ministers and officials, Heidi van der Watt, managing director of Better Tourism Africa pinpointed what makes the Award winners the leaders in responsible tourism in Africa: “Our winners have a vision that extends beyond the commercial – linking business success with the wellbeing of local communities and the longevity of their environments. They want to make profits with principles, communicate balance sheets alongside beliefs, and won’t undermine passion in the pursuit of professionalism. They are resilient, determined, humanising advocates for their destinations. They are the future of tourism in Africa.”

The Awards were sponsored by the Wesgro. Tim Harris, Chief Executive Officer of Wesgro, said: “As the proud headline sponsor of the inaugural African Responsible Tourism Awards, Wesgro is delighted to pay tribute to this year’s inspirational winners. As the official Tourism, Trade and Investment Promotion agency for Cape Town and the Western Cape, we continue to show our commitment to responsible tourism development both in our province and on the African continent.

We are pleased to recognise the vision of the Award winners for providing leadership in their respective sectors throughout Africa, and effectively contributing to growing tourism in a sustainable manner. Today, we celebrate their commitment and achievements.”

www.africanresponsibletourismawards.com responsible traveller 21

AFRICAN RESPONSIBLE TOURISM AWARDS

OVERALL WINNERS...

Blood Lions & Coffee Shack Backpackers Supported By WESGRO

This year there were joint overall winners Blood Lions and Coffee Shack Backpackers.

The ambition of the Responsible Tourism Awards is to educate, inspire and challenge. The Blood Lions campaign demonstrates how awareness raising and engagement can achieve change, successfully engaging the industry though its “Born To Live Wild” campaign.

Coffee Shack demonstrates the major positive impact which a small business in a remote rural area can have.

C O F F E E S H A C K B A C K PA C K E R S

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Cape Town and the Western Cape.

If you’re not inspired, you’re not here.

We are a region of unlimited potential. And this translates into unlimited opportunity. Whether you’re interested in travel, investment, film or export, Cape Town and the Western Cape has something for you. Let Wesgro, the official tourism, trade and investment promotion agency for Cape Town and the Western Cape, help you uncover these opportunities.

Wesgro

@wesgro

Wesgro

www.wesgro.co.za | info@wesgro.co.za | +27 (0) 21 487 8600 an inspiring place to do business

AFRICAN RESPONSIBLE TOURISM AWARDS

BEST ACCOMMODATION FOR SOCIAL INCLUSION Supported By BETTER TOURISM AFRICA

Gold winner: Coffee Shack Backpackers Judges’ reason for winning: Coffee Shack Backpackers is a small establishment with a huge heart and a considerable impact on the Tshezi community living in this remote corner of the Eastern Cape. From the first informal project equipping Pato Junior School in 2002 to bringing on board Tshezi Community Trust shareholders in 2005 to the creation of Sustainable Coffee Bay in 2009, the inclusion of the community in a meaningful manner has been part of the story of Coffee Shack Backpackers from the outset. Today, Sustainable Coffee Bay runs an Early Childhood Development centre, a high school and tertiary education assistance fund, a project supporting exmine workers to access provident funds, and sponsors the local soccer and netball league, to name but a few. Coffee Shack Backpackers pays above the minimum wage, encourages reception staff to travel through a travel bonus scheme, and has invested in two local businesses both of which are run by disabled community members and supply services to the backpackers. As the saying goes “strong medicine comes in small bottles”.

www.coffeeshack.co.za

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LEADING THE HOTEL INDUSTRY INTO A MORE SUSTAINABLE FUTURE

With a powerful membership and a clear focus on the long-term sustainability of the hotel industry, ITP has a unique leadership role within the hospitality sector. Via our members we have a collective reach of over 24,000 properties, more than 3.5m rooms and 1.5m employees in over 100 countries worldwide.

Our members recognise that their long-term business interests are fundamentally linked to environmental, social and economic stability.

ITP is unique in addressing and providing practical solutions to

International Tourism Partnership The voice for social and environmental responsibility in the hotel industry 137 Shepherdess Walk | London N1 7RQ | T: +44 (0)20 7566 8650 | itp@bitc.org.uk www.tourismpartnership.org | www.bitc.org.uk

Business in the Community is registered in England and Wales. Charity No. 297716. Company No. 1619253

AFRICAN RESPONSIBLE TOURISM AWARDS

Silver: The Backpack (South Africa) Set at the edge of Cape Town’s city centre and the foot of Table Mountain, the Backpack could quite easily do very well without doing any good.

However, making a difference and creating opportunities for better lives is how the team at the BackPack live and work. The BackPack is commended for the breadth of their approach to fair employment conditions for their staff. Entry salaries of 2.5x the minimum wage give all staff a solid starting point on which to build higher levels of education, building a home, starting up a small business, all which are financially supported by the business.

Emblematic of fairness in its dealings, products in the community gift shop display both the price charged and the amount paid to the producer.

Key deposits, clothing, and time donated by guests are channelled to a bursary scheme and sport (soccer and rope-skipping) project that diverts youth away from gang¬sterism and drugand alcohol-use. With bio-degradable cleaning products, solar geysers, photovoltaic panels, colour-coded recy¬cling bins, a worm farm and a ban on plastic bottles, the BackPack also ticks a multitude of responsible tourism boxes.

www.backpackers.co.za

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AFRICAN RESPONSIBLE TOURISM AWARDS

Silver: Wilderness Safaris Damaraland Camp (Namibia)

The innovative partnership between Wilderness Safaris and the community of Torra Conservancy was a pioneer within the Namibian context at the time of its creation. The people of Torra Conservancy community own 40% of Damaraland Camp located in the remote Kunene region of north-west Namibia. Over and above the financial benefits of the Joint Venture, the people in Torra Conservancy have gained the following: improved planning skills; insights and capacity for collaborative action; improved knowledge of their rights; broader vision for their community; and committee members on the Board are empowered to make decisions and are involved in business management. Community empowerment has led to further expansion of the business with the community raising funding to build the adventure camp. The value of the partnership and the economic impact of the project is on record through independent academic research.

www.wilderness-safaris.com

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AFRICAN RESPONSIBLE TOURISM AWARDS

BEST FOR ENGAGING PEOPLE & CULTURE Supported By TRANSFRONTIER PARKS DESTINATIONS

Gold winner: Ilha Blue Island Safaris (Mozambique) Judges’ reason for winning: The judges wanted to recognise the deep and diverse cultural experiences offered by Ilha Blue on the African World Heritage Ilha de Moçambique. Ilha Blue offers an exotic mix of Makhuwa, Swahili, Arabic, Indian, and Portuguese cultures through low impact small group tours by bicycle, sea-kayak and Swahili sailing dhow. The judges particularly valued the diverse local voices presented by Ilha Blue as an alternative to the colonial narrative, the presentation of local indigenous knowledge, with local guides presenting their perspectives and stories through experiences creating entrepreneurial opportunities and ensuring that local people shape and have a stake in tourism to their place.

www.ilhablue.com

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AFRICAN RESPONSIBLE TOURISM AWARDS

Silver: Maboneng Arts (South Africa) Since 2000 the rapper Siphiwe Ngwenya has been turning township homes into exhibition spaces from Johannesburg to Cape Town, believing that the home is the epicentre of all culture.

Maboneng Township Arts Experience’s objective is to turn townships into tourism towns by using the art which already exists in the townships to attract domestic and international visitors. This approach enables visitors to meet locals in their own homes, to experience the wealth of their culture, provides market access for emerging artists and additional household income for artists and the Gallery Homes, celebrates cultural diversity and provides opportunities for cultural integration for hosts and guests.

www.maboneng.co.za

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AFRICAN RESPONSIBLE TOURISM AWARDS

BEST FOR HABITAT & SPECIES CONSERVATION Supported By CAPE NATURE

Gold winner: All Out Africa (Swaziland) Judges’ reason for winning: With references from universities in Swaziland and Florida attesting to All Out Africa’s contribution to both research and education on habitats and species the judges were particularly impressed by All Out Africa’s social-entrepreneur approach to solving the problem of insufficient ecological information and capacity to enable successful conservation. Over the last 12 years All Out Africa has enabled 500 international volunteers to contribute meaningfully to conservation through data collection and supported and trained over 100 local students in field-based conservation and ecological research, With activities in Swaziland, Mozambique and South Africa they have supported the education of 15 local students at MSc level and more than 1000 undergraduate students from both local and international universities.

www.alloutafrica.com

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AFRICAN RESPONSIBLE TOURISM AWARDS

Silver: Wildlife ACT (South Africa)

Both of this year’s winners in this category have demonstrated that volunteering tourists can when professionally managed. As one of Wildlife Act’s referees wrote: “They have set and maintained the highest levels of integrity in an industry that is often characterised by unscrupulous operators that abuse the goodwill and naivety of volunteers.” The judges were impressed by the range of habitat and species conservation work that Wildlife Act had contributed to by working with partners from Ethiopia to South Africa.

www.wildlifeact.com

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AFRICAN RESPONSIBLE TOURISM AWARDS

BEST PARTNERSHIP FOR POVERTY REDUCTION Supported By AFRICA IGNITE

Gold winner: Isibindi African Lodges Judges’ reason for winning: The judges were looking for true partnerships that truly whittle away poverty in local areas. At Isibindi Africa Lodges, partnerships extend way beyond runof-the-mill charitable giving (although there is plenty of that too). Rental for communityowned land and tourism lodges, employment of local people, purchases of vegetables, crafts, and laundry and recycling services from local small producers, create sustainable income for four communities and hundreds of people in deep rural areas of KwaZulu-Natal. To widen the spread of the benefits of tourism, Isibindi recently launched a special mechanism ITHUBA (“opportunity”) – a dedicated community engagement programme – to establish greater partnerships with communities and replace individual lodge efforts with a structure that allows resource sharing. Next up, a training facility focussing on lodge hospitality offering internships and a career path at Isibindi lodges for successful graduates.

www.isibindi.co.za

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AFRICAN RESPONSIBLE TOURISM AWARDS

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AFRICAN RESPONSIBLE TOURISM AWARDS

Silver: Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge(Kenya) A partnership with Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge, International Labour Organisation, African ProPoor Tourism Development Centre, and Tech for Trade has given a new lease on life for the women of Kimana’s Women’s Group. This group of HIV+ infected and socially affected small scale women farmers has become the main supplier of fresh vegetables and herbs to the lodge. Ownership of their own land, working capital to bridge credit periods and strengthened business skills and quality assurance ensure consistency and quality of supply, and have won the women additional clients. Serena Hotels plan to replicate this supply chain model in Tsavo and Mara Parks, which will expand the empowering benefits of long-run income, food security and improved health and nutrition to more households.

www.serenahotels.com

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AFRICAN RESPONSIBLE TOURISM AWARDS

BEST RESPONSIBLE EVENT Supported By BULKSMS

Gold winner: MTN Bushfire (Swaziland) Judges’ reason for winning: A three-day festival held annually in the scenic Malkerns Valleys of Swaziland attracting 25,000 participants from across the globe (in 2016 from 62 countries) to enjoy and experience a rich texture of arts, cultures, crafts, food markets. Over the last 10 years the festival has grown in international recognition and used its cultural and economic success, the festival creates employment for 1200 Swazis making a significant contribution to the local economy. The festival’s call to action #BRINGYOURFIRE, has stimulated a personal and collective commitment to social programmes: the Schools Festival (2000 Swazi students and teachers annually), the Arts Round Table (that brings together international and local artists) funding for Young Heroes (an Aids Orphan support programme) and BoMake Rural Projects which benefits rural Swazi women. Bushfire sparked the FireFest Route, which now involves Azgo (Mozambique), Zakifo (Durban, SA) Africa Day (Johannesburg, SA) and Sakifo (Mother festival to Zakifo, held in Reunion Island.)

www.bush-fire.com

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AFRICAN RESPONSIBLE TOURISM AWARDS

Silver: Tour de Tuli (Botswana, South Africa & Zimbabwe) The Nedbank Tour de Tuli is an annual four day mountain bike tour that takes 350 participants through 250km of protected wilderness in Botswana, Zimbabwe and South Africa with the primary aim of raising funds for Children in the Wilderness (CITW). The judges recognised the skill and commitment which has created a signature event raising, in 2016, R4 million (US$295 700up from 2015’s total of R2.5 million (US$185 800), largely due to additional sponsorship raised by cyclists, amounting to some R1.5 million (US$110 900). Wilderness Safaris’ CITW is an environmental and life skills educational programme, some of which funds activities in their camps, focused on developing a generation of rural decision makers inspired to conserve wildlife.

www.tourdewilderness.com

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AFRICAN RESPONSIBLE TOURISM AWARDS

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AFRICAN RESPONSIBLE TOURISM AWARDS

BEST RESPONSIBLE TOURISM CAMPAIGN Supported By CAPE TOWN PASS

Gold winner: Blood Lions (South Africa) Judges’ reason for winning: The judges were looking for a campaign with a clear target, able to report its impact and to demonstrate that it had contributed to making tourism more responsible. From its launch in 2015 there was a clear focus “to stop lions being bred for the bullet.” With a powerful documentary film at the heart of a campaign which used social and traditional media to engage the industry, voluntourism, the public, government (local, national and international), professional hunters and the scientific and conservation community with a simple and compelling message: “THINK before you VISIT, CUDDLE, WALK, VOLUNTEER or SHOOT.” Otherwise, you might unwittingly be contributing to canned hunting. The campaign is able to report with clear metrics on the traction it has gained and the impact it has had.

www.bloodlions.org

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www.capetownpass.travel

AFRICAN RESPONSIBLE TOURISM AWARDS

BEST TOUR OPERATOR FOR IMPACT IN URBAN AREAS Supported By MARINE DYNAMICS

Gold winner: Uthando (South Africa) Judges’ reason for winning: Urban community farms and 2 recipe books, educare centres, music and dance academies, domestic animal care, senior centres and a book that tell the stories of elders, arts and crafts hubs – the list of initiatives in Cape Town’s townships touched by UthandoSA is almost endless. UthandoSA’s urban philantrophic tours and partnership with the Belmont Mount Nelson Hotel capture the hearts, imagination and support of guest and the tourism industry, generating funds for a diverse array of projects. In the 2016 / 2017 fiscal year, Uthando is set to exceed R3 million transferred to 45 community projects – a remarkable impact for a tour operator with only 2 permanent employees.

www.uthando.org

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The only 5-star cage diving experience in South Africa. More than just a dive, our biologists share their knowledge & adventures on each trip!

Experience the Marine Big Five in their natural environment.

Focused on the protection of African Penguins & sea birds.

Discover & Protect - in partnership with the Dyer Island Conservation Trust.

www.DICT.org.za

CONSERVATION PROFILE

Deceased!

GREAT WHITE SHARKS AND ORCA PREDATION...

A FIRST CONFIRMED ACCOUNT IN SOUTH AFRICA a Marine Dynamics / Dyer Island Conservation Trust Report

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CONSERVATION PROFILE

pics - Marine Dynamics / Dyer Island Conservation Trust photographers: Tami Kaschke, Sandra Hoerbst, Hennie Otto, Kelly Baker responsible traveller 47

CONSERVATION PROFILE

M

ay 2017 was an interesting yet trying time for the team of Marine Dynamics and the Dyer Island Conservation Trust. The team was called out to retrieve not one but three white sharks - female of 4,9m and two males at 3,6 and 4,5m. All three sharks have been identified from our extensive database.

Shark biologists, Alison Towner and Kelly Baker assisted by the team and experts in their field including Dr Malcolm Smale, and with the permission of the Department of Environmental Affairs did the dissections on site in Gansbaai.

All three sharks had consistent bite wounds and were found to be missing their livers. This indicates what is known of orca predation on sharks as they attack and stun the shark into tonic immobility and the buoyant liver rises to the surface through the injury. The squalene rich liver is the only part that the orca’s appear interested in although the one male shark was also missing a heart.

The orca (Orcinus orca), also known as the killer whale, belongs to the dolphin family and is the only know natural predator of the very legendary apex predator, the great white shark.

In the last two years there have been more

Day 1

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frequent sightings of Orca in the Gansbaai area. There has always been speculation as to how the orca’s affect shark behaviour and this is confirmation that some orca’s do indeed pose a serious threat to the already vulnerable population of great white sharks on the South African coastline.

This is the first time worldwide that a white shark has been dissected after an orca predation and this is the first official observation of orca predation on white sharks in South Africa.

Predation on seven gill sharks has been confirmed off Cape Town, New Zealand and South America. Internationally, orcas have predated on white sharks off the Farallon and Neptune Islands (known white shark aggregation sites off California and Australia) and while footage of the predations exists,

CONSERVATION PROFILE due to the offshore location of both areas no carcasses were available for autopsy.

The Dyer Island ecosystem is complex and delicate and the white sharks are a very necessary apex predator in the region helping in keeping the abundant Cape fur seal population in check. The great white sharks along the South African coastline are transient and can undergo lengthy migrations inbetween sightings.

MARINE DYNAMICS documents every individual sighted and have done so for the last ten years. The shark cage diving industry has a limited permitted area and sightings in the bay were affected as the white sharks, sensing a threat, temporarily left the area for a couple of weeks. However, the sharks slowly started returning and sightings continued as usual.

There have been two previous periods of no shark sightings subsequent to Orca being seen: these were JANUARY 2016 and FEBRUARY 2017.

Follow the MARINE DYNAMICS Facebook page to keep updated

SUMMARY OF EVENTS: 03 May 2017 (Day 1) The Marine Dynamics/Dyer Island Conservation Trust team was called out in the early morning to retrieve a deceased white shark at the beach in Franskraal, Gansbaai. The Department of Environmental Affairs authorised the Dyer Island Conservation Trust team led by shark biologist, Alison Towner and supported by Dr Alison Kock and Meaghan McCord. Shark expert Dr Malcolm Smale, was flown in from Port Elizabeth to lead the dissection.

“The shark is a 4.9m female (total length) and we estimated her weight at 1,110kgs. We have her recorded around Dyer Island last year in June but we hadn’t seen her since” says Towner. “She has also been recorded in Mossel Bay between August and December 2016. At this size, she is likely reproductively mature- which is rare to see and so impressive. Again there is much speculation flying around about Orcas killing the shark. There is a gaping wound on the sharks underside but until we have examined the injuries closely we cannot confirm if her death is indeed Orca related or not”.

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CONSERVATION PROFILE “It’s is a very interesting time”, says Towner, “the last white shark washed up here on the 8th of February and the cage diving boats struggled to see any sharks for almost two weeks.

Unfortunately the cage diving boats all came home after seeing no sharks again today. We are incredibly grateful to the members of the community that helped us locate the shark this morning and will update with more accurate information on the cause of death and findings after the autopsy tomorrow.”

04 May 2017 (Day 2) Dissection - The dissection was a lengthy process.

It is the biggest white shark dissected in South Africa. One major observation is that the shark was missing its entire liver indicating that an orca is quite likely responsible for this type of injury.

Call Out - On the same day as the first dissection, another white shark was found on Franskraal beach. The team once again recovered the 3.4m male who is missing big pieces out of each flank.

The specimen is in a more degraded state and cannot be frozen and is scheduled for dissection the following day.

05 May 2017 (Day 3) Dissection - The second male white shark to wash ashore in Gansbaai is also missing its entire

DAY 2

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‘nature can be so cruel and the dexterity these enormous animals are capable of is mind blowing, almost surgical precision as they remove the squalene rich liver and dump their carcass...’

CONSERVATION PROFILE

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CONSERVATION PROFILE

‘The shark is a 4.9m female and we estimated her weight at 1,110kgs.

We have her recorded around Dyer Island last year in June but we hadn’t seen her since... ’

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CONSERVATION PROFILE

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CONSERVATION PROFILE liver and heart, again a near certain indication of an orca attack. Marine Dynamics guiding shark biologist, Kelly Baker, matched this shark as one she had photographed on the 29th of April 2017 inshore on the Joubertsdam reef. She was able to recognise the shark using markings on the lower caudal fin (tail).

Dyer Island Conservation Trust’s Alison Towner says: “Today’s necropsy will be quicker than the 4.9m female yesterday due to the mutilated state of its body and missing organs,and many measurements will not be possible. This is a difficult yet fascinating time. Something rarely documented in marine top predator behaviour in South Africa,” says Towner.

07 May 2017 (Day 5) Call Out - A third deceased white shark washed ashore, this time in Struisbaai. The NSRI site manager notified Dr Alison Kock and the White Shark Research Group. It was decided that the Dyer Island Conservation Trust team were the closest to the site and so they dispatched their team once again to go and retrieve the shark carcass using two 4x4 vehicles and a small vessel trailer.

“We have never seen anything like this. Today’s carcass is another large white shark, he is a 4.2m

DAY 5

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male and his injuries seem to match those of the previous two dead specimens” says Alison Towner white shark biologist at the Dyer Island Conservation Trust. “It seems likely that orcas are again the cause of death but we will confirm after the autopsy. Obviously this is a very sad time for us all, nature can be so cruel and the dexterity these enormous animals are capable of is mind blowing, almost surgical precision as they remove the squalene rich liver of the white sharks and dump their carcass” 08 May 2017 (Day 6) Dissection - The end of another long day, our third white shark necropsy in 7 days, and hopefully the last. This one took 6 hours to complete and was led by Dyer Island Conservation Trust’s white shark biologist Alison Towner, with support from Marine Dynamics biologist Kelly Baker. They followed the comprehensive protocol of Dr Malcolm Smale who they had previously assisted during the necropsies of the first two sharks.

The team collected samples as required by members of the white shark research group in South Africa and Department of Environmental Affairs for a multitude of research projects. The necropsy began with extensive morphometric

CONSERVATION PROFILE

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CONSERVATION PROFILE measurements to obtain accurate size information. Parasites such as copepods and nematodes are extracted and preserved, muscle tissue is preserved for genetics, diet and physiology studies and all the wounds measured and examined closely. Vertebrae are collected for age growth studies and all organs are inspected weighed and measured.

This white shark was a mature male of 4.5m with fully calcified claspers. His open wound was located under his left pectoral and exposed his body cavity. His liver had been removed, but unlike the smaller 3.5m white shark stranded on the 5th May he still had his heart in place. His stomach contained cape fur seal remnants and shark vertebrae. He also had the tip of a stingray barb embedded in his jaw.

The team have worked tirelessly this past week and feel satisfied that they have collected a vast amount of very useful samples to improve our knowledge of this species in SA. They concluded that all three white sharks were killed by Orca via the removal of their livers. Not one shark had an acoustic transmitter so they were identified on the Marine Dynamics database by Kelly Baker using their dorsal and caudal fin markings.

DAY 6

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“These observations are unprecedented” says Alison Towner. “We know from photo ID, genetic and tracking studies that this population of sharks is open and transient. We have identified and matched each of the three dead white sharks in our database but the fact is from now on this is a grey area and we don’t really know how long the sharks will stay away from the area as a result of predation pressure.”

Read the full account, with more images HERE...

And WATCH the video below...

CONSERVATION PROFILE An Orca in Gansbaai

An Orca grows to about 9,5m so is a bigger contender than the great white shark, although the largest female predated on was an impressive 4,9m. Orca’s are known skilled hunters and will hunt in pairs or a pod making them no match for a solitary great white.

However, as a mammal, Orca’s do need to surface breathe and cannot go to the depths that a white shark is capable of, making depth and exit the best strategy for a white shark.

The cost of retrieving shark carcasses that weigh close to a tonne and can be in remote locations, autopsy equipment such as knives, scientific vials, ethanol etc can add up. To donate please go to: WWW.DICT.ORG.ZA

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What’s news...

Shamwari Game Reserve Beach Clean Up As part of the many celebratory initiatives Shamwari Game Reserve is creating for its 25th Anniversary, 29 May 2017, saw the Shamwari Game Reserve team, staff, management and students from the Shamwari Conservation Experience, come together to do a beach cleanup at Humewood Beach in Port Elizabeth.

It was Shamwari’s way of bringing awareness to one and all of the vital necessity to minimise our use of plastics as well as putting a spotlight on general consideration for littering Mother Nature’s back yard. Comments Group General Manager, Joe Cloete: “It’s everyone’s

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responsibility to be cognisant of recycling, reusing and upcycling in our everyday lives and to conserve a vanishing way of life. When confronted with litter on the beach, which has been washed up on shore it reiterates the urgency of the situation.”

Humewood Beach is South Africa’s oldest blue flag beach and is enjoyed by families for relaxing and recreational activities. Just one of the many amazing tourism spots to enjoy in the Nelson Mandela Bay area. •

www.shamwari.coma

What’s news...

Fair Trade Tourism welcomes Hotel Verde, Africa’s Greenest Hotel at WTM Africa Hotel Verde, situated at the Cape Town International Airport has just been certified by Fair Trade Tourism at the annual World Travel Market Africa, in Cape Town, South Africa. The certification is a prestigious accolade for both Hotel Verde and tourism in South Africa, showing leadership in the rapidly growing responsible tourism market.

Hailed as “Africa’s Greenest hotel”; Hotel Verde has been set, since opening in 2013, on proving that luxury and sustainability can go hand in hand. The 145-bedroomed hotel earned its spot as one of the most sustainable hotels in the world, after becoming the first hotel world-wide, to receive a double-platinum green building certification from the United States Green Building Council in 2015.

The Fair Trade certification brings new weight to Hotel Verde’s commitment to responsible tourism principles, verifying the sustainable practices of more than just the hotel’s design and building operations. The certification was audited extensively by KMPG and focused on aspects such as fair wages and working conditions, fair purchasing and operations, equitable distribution of benefits and respect for human rights, culture and the environment.

experience in person and a proud addition to Africa’s most responsible portfolio of nearly 200 businesses.’ says Fair Trade Tourism Managing Director, Jane Edge.

‘The Fairtrade certification is an extremely proud alliance for our team’, vouched Lindy Meiring General Manager of Hotel Verde, Cape Town. ’We believe that this has further validated our passionate dedication to sustainability and the future thereof. The mark of the Fair Trade certification will also give responsible travelers an easy way of identifying our commitment to responsible practices when choosing accommodation in Cape Town’ Mario and Annemarie Delicio are the owners behind Hotel Verde, Africa’s greenest hotel.

Dedicated and passionate about sustainability, they have transformed what was initially just a sensible business proposition into a showcase for all to follow. •

www.hotelverde.com www.fairtrade.travel

’Going green is not just about the building; it’s also about every aspect of the operation’, says Samantha Annandale, CEO of Verde Hotels, the sustainable hotel management company behind Hotel Verde, Cape Town and the soonto-launch Hotel Verde, Zanzibar. ‘As part of Hotel Verde, Cape Town’s commitment to be “Africa’s greenest hotel”, management is committed to following the principal tenets of sustainable procurement, to minimize their environmental impact, to maximize wider social benefits and of course, ensuring the wellbeing and future of our employees.’

Fair Trade Tourism was the first African certification scheme to be recognised by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council, representing global best-practice in responsible tourism. ‘We are delighted to have Africa’s Greenest hotel, Hotel Verde on-board with Fair Trade Tourism.

They are leaders in demonstrating that going Green is not only responsible but also financially viable, whilst enhancing the client’s experience, at the same time. Following the principals of Thrivability, Hotel Verde is something to responsible traveller 59

Life & art

at Madi a Thavha...

I

n one of the many hidden valleys of the Soutpansberg in central Limpopo, you’ll find Fair Trade Tourism certified Madi a Thavha Mountain Lodge. A place where life and art, mirror people and place, where village life and rich culture blend to create a hip and happening rural style… and where guests are invited to join in on this glorious dance called ‘life’. words - Tessa Buhrmann pics - Madi a Thavha Mountain Lodge 60 responsible traveller

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Šroxannereid.co.za

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And what makes this ‘life’ at Madi a Thavha special, are the sustainable relationships that they have built with their surrounding communities.

Most of the staff is from the local community, with some being rescued out of a life of poverty.

Like Paul Sephodi, an unemployed man who came to dig a hole for a septic tank… a two week job that in the end lasted 11 years and has equipped him with skills that would make any handyman proud.

Alfred Ramolefo, who started out as the foreman on the farm, is now a qualified tour guide and Musa Matchume, the lodge administrator, with his passion for guiding tours and sharing his local and indigenous knowledge with guests. The tours offered at Madi a Thavha are anything but contrived and sterile - guests get to walk along dusty streets with traditionally painted homesteads, hear the melodious sound of children laughing and the tinkling of Nguni cattle bells.

Experience rural life with its local hair-salons and spaza shops, visit a local school or community project and meet crafters and local artists in their rural workshops.

One such crafter is Sophia Baloyi, a ‘gogo’ who is a master at creating traditional Tsonga beaded items. Together with her sister Lerisa, they create jewellery, beaded baskets, traditional calabash and walking sticks all with a contemporary edge learned during workshops at Madi a Thavha.

These workshops teach local crafters how to use heritage based techniques and materials to make contemporary products that will appeal to tourists and interior decorators. Products, from 30 rural artists and crafters are sold at the Craft Art shop at the Lodge.

One of the other popular stops on a tour is to visit Thomas Kubayi, a talented wood carver, drum builder, musician and story teller. His Vhutshila Art Centre is where guests can enjoy musical performances as well as woodcarving and music workshops, and a place where he imparts his knowledge of carving and traditional music to other local young artists, such as Pilato Bulala, a schoolboy who does scrap art living close to him.

Collecting insects

It is heart-warming to visit to the Vhutshilo Mountain School where many HIV positive and vulnerable children from extremely impoverished circumstances are cared for. Madi a Thavha also supports Vhutshilo in their quest for proper education, clothes, nutritious meals and health check-ups for the children and young adults, many of whom are orphans. In addition to this, an income generating scheme for school leavers responsible traveller 63

ensures that they are able to support themselves financially. These are just a few of the rich experiences that represent Madi a Thavha’s integrated approach to ‘doing’ tourism.

An approach that is in line with the principles of responsible tourism and that benefits the local community, and one of the key reasons for their Fair Trade Tourism certification. Guests of Madi a Thavha Mountain Lodge leave with dust in their 64 responsible traveller

shoes, wonderful memories and a suitcase full of art and crafts - each of these with a special story that represents the life and traditions of the colourful people of the northern frontiers of South Africa. •

www.madiathavha.com FIRST PUBLISHED IN AFRICA GEOGRAPHIC FOR FAIR TRADE TOURISM

‘Guests of Madi a Thavha Mountain Lodge leave with dust in their shoes, wonderful memories and a suitcase fill of art and crafts...’ responsible traveller 65

What’s news...

Rwanda announces increase in the price of Gorilla Permits The Rwanda Development Board has announced an increase in the price of Gorilla Permits from US$ 750 to US $1,500 for all visitors effective immediately. A new exclusive package for tourists who wish to book an entire family of gorillas was also introduced at US$ 15,000, and will receive exclusive personalized tour guide services.

The price increase will not affect tourists who had already purchased their tickets at the time of this announcement.

Clare Akamanzi, the Chief Executive Officer at Rwanda Development Board said: “Gorilla trekking is a highly unique experience. We have raised the price of permits in order to ensure sustainability of conservation initiatives and enhance visitors’ experience. We also want to make sure that the communities living near the park area receive a bigger share of tourism revenues to fund development projects and empower them economically.”

Tourists who visit other national parks (Nyungwe and Akagera) for a minimum of three days, in addition to gorilla trekking will receive a discount of 30%. Similarly, conference tourists, who stay pre or post conference dates to see gorillas will be eligible for a 15% discount.

In line with Rwanda’s high-end tourism strategy, the price increase aims to strengthen conservation efforts and contribute more to the

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development of communities living around the Volcanoes National Park.

Along with the new tariff, the tourism revenue sharing rate for communities adjacent to the park, will also increase from 5% to 10%, which will quadruple the absolute revenues received by communities. Over the last 12 years, more than 400 community projects have been completed including hospitals, schools, business development centers and water supply systems to facilitate access to clean water. These projects directly benefit the people living around the parks.

New, high-end lodges are opening in Musanze and plans are underway to improve visitors’ experience at Kinigi, including renovation of the information center to equip it with modern offices and tourism services such as conservation education, children’s learning space as well as digital facilities.

Mountain gorillas are an endangered species with only around 880 remaining in the world. Of those in in the Virunga Massif, Rwanda accounts for 62% of the gorilla population. Stringent conservation measures have significantly contributed to a rise in gorilla numbers. There are currently 20 families habituated for tourism and research in Rwanda, up from just 9 families in 2010. •

www.rwandatourism.com

What’s news...

Etihad Cargo & Intradco Global help bring Endangered Rhinos Home The critically endangered black rhino has returned to the wilds of Rwanda with the help of Etihad Cargo and animal transport specialist Intradco Global.

their homecoming and witness their release back into the wild. We would also like to thank Etihad Cargo for their role in operating the two flights and for their meticulous care and attention.”

On behalf of African Parks, a conservation nonprofit organisation that manages national parks and protected areas on behalf of governments across the continent, Intradco chartered two Etihad Boeing 777 freighters to transport the 19 black rhinos from Johannesburg to the Rwandan capital, Kigali. Upon touching down at Kigali International Airport (KGL), the rhinos were carefully transferred to trucks to continue the final leg of their journey by road, under police escort.

David Kerr, Senior Vice President Etihad Cargo, said: “We are proud to play this integral role in returning an endangered species to its home.

Last year Etihad Airways became one of the first airlines to sign the Declaration of the United for Wildlife International Taskforce on the Transportation of Illegal Wildlife Products, known as the Buckingham Palace Declaration, as a demonstration of our support for preventing illegal wildlife trade – estimated to be worth up to US $20 billion today. As a key mode of transport for carrying this caught wildlife across borders, it is the responsibility of the aviation industry to take action to prevent this.”

Ten rhinos travelled on the first flight, and nine on the second, along with the three vets and two attendants who accompanied them for the duration of their entire journey from Johannesburg to Akagera National Park.

The rhinos, which can weigh up to 2,500 kg each, were transported in special pallets which also contained their feed for the journey. The temperature on the aircraft is specified by the vet to ensure the animals do not overheat or become stressed. The project to return the rhinos took place over the first two weeks of May, and represents a historical moment for the country after the species disappeared in 2007 following decades of widespread poaching.

The complex logistics involved in this remarkable homecoming required the expertise of Intradco’s specialists who spent more than a year planning the journey with Etihad Cargo, who operated the flights. Intradco worked closely with African Parks and the Akegara team to ensure all permits and clearances were in place including valid CITES documentation (the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species) – a requirement when transporting listed species such as black rhino. Tom Lamb, Intradco project manager, accompanied the animals on both flights and travelled with the team for the fivehour drive to Akegara National Park where they were successfully released.

Jes Gruner, Akagera Park Manager, said: “Together with the Rwanda Development Board and the Howard G. Buffett Foundation, we have spent the last three years preparing for this historic event, ensuring that the park is safe for the arrival of the rhinos and for their long-term future so they can breed and thrive.

“Akagera has transformed since African Parks assumed management in partnership with the Rwanda Development Board in 2010, overhauling law enforcement and reducing poaching to an all-time low in just six years, thus making it safe to bring these eastern black rhinos back home.” •

www.intradco-global.com

Commenting on the project, Mr Lamb said: “It is a brilliant achievement to return the extremely rare eastern black rhino to Rwanda after a 10year absence. There are only 1,000 left globally so moving two per cent of the world’s population was a big responsibility and challenge, and an incredible project to be a part of. It was a privilege to be able to accompany the rhinos on responsible traveller 67

CONSERVATION PROFILE

iSimangaliso

developing to conserve through restitution and growth

I

n 2000, when the iSimangaliso Wetland Park was listed and proclaimed as South Africa’s first world heritage site, the region in which it is located was marked by a declining tourism economy.

The proclamation of iSimangaliso consolidated 16 separate parcels of land, including a patchwork of earlier proclamations dating back to 1895. This marked the beginning of a new era in South Africa’s young democracy – the era of developing to conserve through restitution and growth.

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CONSERVATION PROFILE words & pics - iSImangaliso Wetland Park

In 2000, when the iSimangaliso Wetland Park was listed and proclaimed as South Africa’s first world heritage site, the region in which it is located was marked by a declining tourism economy. The proclamation of iSimangaliso consolidated 16 separate parcels of land, including a patchwork of earlier proclamations dating back to 1895.

This marked the beginning of a new era in South Africa’s young democracy – the era of developing to conserve through restitution and growth.

Today, the 395 odd tourism jobs of 1999 have grown to over 8 000. Tourism contributes some 7% of KwaZulu-Natal’s tourism GDP and the number of tourism businesses in and around iSimangaliso has grown by 89%.

Importantly, local communities are starting to see real benefits. All privately owned lodges in iSimangaliso have local community equity – a mandatory requirement set by iSimangaliso.

There are nine community-owned and operated companies running tourism activities like game drives, boat tours and turtle tours. iSimangaliso also supports 215 black-owned small and medium enterprises, provides on average 11 000 temporary jobs per annum and has supported 87 neighbouring students at University since 2010.

And that’s just scratching the surface... With a population of some 640 000 people around it, iSimangaliso is situated in one of the poorest regions in the country. Eighty percent of people around iSimangaliso live below the poverty line and unemployment is rife – youth unemployment is around 80% and only 15.3% of the economically active population is formally employed. There is a high dependence on social grants for survival.

Environmental Education Programme

iSimangaliso’s fragile beauty and sense of place is being protected for future generations through environmentally-benign forms of economic growth. It is a place where nature and conservation contribute to reconciliation and restitution by providing tangible benefits to those communities living in and around the wetlands.

“This ethos,” says Buyane Zwane, Chairman of the iSimangaliso Board, “continues to underpin the Park’s vision today – to recreate the wholeness of nature, where people and nature can reconnect and flourish, and where enhancing access, equity and the economic empowerment of our local communities remain the cornerstone of our conservation and development approach.” “iSimangaliso’s economic development and empowerment has continued its consistent responsible traveller 69

CONSERVATION PROFILE upward trajectory since 2000. In 2017, the final touches are being made to complete the redevelopment of the southern sections of the Park (Western Shores, Eastern Shores and the Lake St Lucia Estuary) and uMkhuze. An EIA record of decision has been issued for the major redevelopment of Sodwana Bay and detailed planning for infrastructure in the Coastal Forest Reserve and Kosi Bay is in progress. This planning includes 24 local community-driven tourism investment accommodation opportunities.”

Zwane explains.

“Local communities are part-owners of the three privately-run facilities in the Park. Equity participation ranges from 17.5% to 68%. A fourth lodge – 100% community-owned – is in EIA stage. The new lodge developments will follow this model” says Andrew Zaloumis, CEO of iSimangaliso.

Here is a synopsis on the transformation and economic development programmes and initiatives that iSimangaliso implements: Transformation • 8 co-management agreements with land claimants, which include a number of benefits. One of the benefits is the payment of 8% of commercial revenue on an annual basis to land claimants. These payments have been made following iSimangaliso’s annual audit since 2010.

•

•

•

14 internships. All of the interns have secured permanent placements – eight of which are in iSimangaliso.

70 000 people obtain free access annually as part of iSimangaliso’s equitable access programme.

Natural resource harvesting programme, which includes 3 500 ncema harvesters and

‘All privately owned lodges in iSimangaliso have local community equity - a mandatory requirement set by iSimangaliso. There are nine community-owned and operated companies running tourism activities like game drives, boat tours and turtle tours Zaloumis stresses that, “In our planning and development, we are cognisant that we must uphold and strengthen the Park’s World Heritage values. The R60 million restoration of iSimangaliso’s centre piece, the 350km2 Lake St Lucia, is well underway. This is South Africa’s largest and most ecologically significant wetland and estuarine rehabilitation projects.”

The World Heritage Convention Act sets out iSimangaliso’s very specific mandate (a) conserving the world heritage values (b) empowering local communities (c) optimising tourism potential. This balancing act does not mean that all three are treated equally and the bottom line remains the world heritage values. Implementing the work and creating this balance is carried out under the guidance of our iSimangaliso board – which includes community, land claimant, amaKhosi, conservation and tourism representation.

So how exactly is the UNESCO World Heritage Site achieving this?

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1 000 subsistence fishers.

•

14 agricultural gardens. These were established to improve food security and support sustainable agricultural practises.

•

200 crafters. The programme includes training and support in design, production and distribution of craft. All products are handmade and produced using raw materials from iSimangaliso.

•

50 local artists trained in printmaking, painting, sculpture and the business of art.

Some of these artworks can be seen in the Presidential Suite of the Moses Mabhida stadium in KZN, as well as Dube Tradeport.

Two commissions sold for R100 000 each to a private buyer. Newly secured funding will allow the programme to continue this year.

Land Rehabilitation and Infrastructure Development •

Some 20 000ha of alien invasive plants and 16 000ha of pine and gum plantations have been removed as part of the ecosystems

CONSERVATION PROFILE Tourist guide training

Local tourism business owner

Local tourism business owner Local entrepreneurs (L & R)

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CONSERVATION PROFILE

•

restoration programmes of the Park.

Game reintroductions – all but one of the species that historically occurred in the Park have been reintroduced.

The redevelopment of the south of the Park and uMkhuze sections is all but complete. This includes 300km of visitor roads, day-visitor facilities (hides, picnic sites, canopy walks, jetties, ablutions and beach facilities), park entrance complexes, craft markets and visitor centres as well as over 70km of water reticulation systems.

The successful completion of the new 2km Forest Loop has been marked by an official opening on the Eastern Shores section of the Park, which 72 responsible traveller

now boasts five ecologically distinct visitor drive game drives: Pan Loop, Vlei Loop, Dune Loop, Grassland Loop and Forest Loop. Each has its own distinctive attractions en route including hides, look out points, picnic sites, places of interest – like Lake Bhangazi – and vistas. At a total cost of R2.3 million, construction by Aqua Transport and Plant Hire was overseen for iSimangaliso by MBB Consulting Engineers. More than 50% of the value of the work went to sub-contractors.

“The brief to MBB Consulting Engineers was for an ecologically optimal design that works with nature and allows access for all into the Park – no matter the type of vehicle. With earth

CONSERVATION PROFILE

Beach cleanup (L), Land care (above) & Environmental Monitors

coloured concrete strips and grass blocks to optimise the feeling of being in nature, I think we have achieved that,” says Zaloumis. “iSimangaliso inherited 35km of poor gravel roads from St Lucia to Cape Vidal and Mission Rocks beach. At times these where only suitable for 4×4s. Our aim has been to give all South Africans access and a full experience of what is on offer. Today, the Eastern Shores has 66km of high quality roads that are environmentally appropriate, with a new range of visitor facilities including hides, look out points and picnic sites that are wheelchair friendly.”

“The investments that have been made by iSimangaliso with government in the southern

sections of the Park have boosted tourism significantly and created a platform for the rollout of our programme in the northern sections of the Park. We are looking forward to this next phase,” concludes Zwane.

The next phase of the infrastructure programme is the redevelopment of Sodwana Bay and the completion of detailed planning for the Coastal Forest Reserve and Kosi sections of the Park, as well as the 24 tourism investment accommodation opportunities. •

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Images - SA Tourism Š

TRAVEL INDUSTRY NEWS

TRAVEL NEWS f rom t h e m ar ke t pl ac e‌

T

he travel and tourism industry has recently seen the back of two of its biggest South African trade shows - World Travel Market Africa and the stalwart travel exhibition, Tourism Indaba, held in Durban last week. Seemingly, a common topic under the spotlight is the rate of transformation in the South African travel trade. Speaking at the annual Women in Tourism Event at the Indaba, newly elected Minister of Tourism Tokozile Xasa raised concerns about the slow pace of transformation in the sector.

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TRAVEL INDUSTRY NEWS

Transformation is key During INDABA 2017, Minister Tokozile Xasa met and engaged with industry leaders at a breakfast event held at Southern Sun Elangeni in Durban.

The event afforded the Minister an opportunity to share her vision for the sector, and to encourage industry leaders to work together on the initiatives that will make tourism inclusive and sustainable under the “I do Tourism” banner.

“We are looking at diversifying the sector and creating an environment that is conducive for the growth of the sector and inclusive for the creation of an economy enabling new entrants.

“Processes are underway to finalise our National Tourism Sector Strategy (NTSS). As government, we have an opportunity to turn the economy around, and we need your input as drivers of this sector. We appreciate the work that the industry is doing, and it has contributed positively to the GDP and creating employment opportunities. We also appreciate how you have embraced the Executive Development Programme (EDP) for Women in Tourism. The women who enrolled in the Programme, will be graduating soon and this could not have been achieved without you,” said Xasa.

Chairman of the Tourism Business Council of South Africa (TBCSA), Mr.Tito Mboweni, thanked the Minister for making time to engage with industry players, and indicated that they look forward to further engagements on issues which affect the industry.

“Tourism is a robust and exciting industry that drives economic activity. We need to take full advantage of this and ensure that issues pertaining to safety and security, tax levies and government regulations that infringe on how the industry does its work are addressed,” said Mboweni.

CEO Tourism Business Council of SA (TBCSA), Ms. Mmatsatsi Ramawela, lauded the department’s efforts to continuously engage and consult with the industry, and reaffirmed the industry’s commitment to work with government in advancing the industry.

“On behalf of my colleagues in the industry, I reaffirm our commitment to support you as you fulfill your mandate as the Tourism Minister. We rally behind the “I do Tourism” campaign, and look forward to further engagements with you as we grow tourism,” said Ramawela.

INDABA 2017 a great success South African Tourism chief executive Sisa Ntshona praised this edition of Africa’s Travel INDABA as a resounding success: “This year was all about listening to the feedback from exhibitors and partners that resulted in some fundamental changes, to ensure the event stays fresh and relevant.

These ranged from the show’s updated diary system that provided more matchmaking and meeting opportunities to a brand-new INDABA app as the show’s primary source of information about news, meetings and events.”

“Other event enhancements included the new Lap of Luxury pavilion, showcasing five-star products, and the Hidden Gems pavilion showcasing small tourism businesses,” he explained.

“Hidden Gems was a pioneering initiative between the private sector and public sector aimed at accelerating inclusive growth in the tourism industry. The programme identified 90 quality tourism SMEs from all nine provinces, and helped get them market-ready before their sponsored participation at Africa’s Travel INDABA. It proved to be a highly successful platform for them to meet and network with fellow exhibitors as well as travel buyers, and gain valuable exposure for their enterprises,” Ntshona added.

Summing up the show’s success, Ntshona noted: “We’re confident that the additional offerings, SME showcase and enhanced platforms for dialogue and information-sharing contributed to the success of Africa’s Travel INDABA 2017. We’re not done yet though, with several more enhancements and a refreshed brand planned for 2018, and we trust that exhibitors, delegates, media and buyers will be as excited as we are for next year’s event.”

Africa’s Travel INDABA will take place from 8 to 10 May 2018 at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in Durban, with 7 May being BONDay.

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TRAVEL INDUSTRY NEWS

South African’s reminded to “Do Tourism” South African Tourism has used INDABA as a platform to launch I Do Tourism (IDT) – an initiative that seeks to remind South Africans of the importance of the tourism industry and the role they can play as advocates for South Africa and for tourism.

The purpose of the campaign, according to SA Tourism CEO, Sisa Ntshona, is to show the 76 responsible traveller

economic and social value of tourism in South Africa. “Tourism has a ripple effect,” Ntshona notes.

“Each direct permanent tourism job opportunity that is created can have multiple spin-offs for transport, agriculture and other sectors.

I Do Tourism will bring this message to the attention of the South African public by reminding them of tourism’s impact on the

TRAVEL INDUSTRY NEWS economy. The campaign will also showcase members of the industry, and provide a space for them to share their stories. However, it is not only potential domestic tourists (and tourism advocates) who will be inspired by the campaign. SA Tourism is also aiming to motivate industry members to keep up their good work, and to remind government and other stakeholders of the importance of supporting the industry.

This is crucial, because although tourism contributes 3% to the nation’s economy and has created around 500 000 jobs, the majority of South Africans remain unaware of how their lives are affected when international travellers decide to visit the country; or even how their own holiday may help to better the lives of other South Africans. In fact, for many South Africans, tourism remains inaccessible. It remains something that is “for other people” and therefore has little bearing on their day-to-day lives.

“This is precisely the attitude we hope to change through I Do Tourism,” Ntshona explains. We aim to remind South Africans that tourism is everyone’s business because all South Africans benefit through and from tourism. Tourism adds value to the lives of all South Africans in a range of ways. As South Africans we all have something to gain from the growth and development of our tourism industry that is why our involvement in rallying behind tourism is vitally important. The continued success of tourism benefits us all.

‘I Do Tourism will bring the message to the South African public, reminding them of tourism’s impact on the economy... ’

Linked to this, the campaign draws attention to the fact that the impact of tourism is not industry-specific. Almost every sector within the South African economy is positively affected when people travel, from agriculture (which is required to increase output in order to feed visitors) to transport (as visitors need a means of getting around the country). Finally, we need to emphasise that, this being the case, tourism is integral to the growth and development of the country. It is therefore the duty of every South African to do what they can to support tourism. By doing so, they are contributing to the country’s economy.

“Ultimately, I Do Tourism seeks to make South Africans want to get behind tourism by seizing the economic opportunities within the tourism industry or by simply playing their part by making visitors feel welcome and providing assistance where necessary, whether that’s by giving directions or recommending a local attraction. If tourism wins, we all win,” Ntshona concludes. responsible traveller 77

TRAVEL INDUSTRY NEWS

Gold Travel sets the transformation bar Gold Travel, a Cape Town-based corporate travel service specialist, has recently achieved a Level Two B-BBEE rating after implementing 52.5% black ownership and 31.5% black woman ownership in partnership with NetValue™ Equity Partners, also based in Cape Town. The certification falls under the Qualifying Small Enterprise classification in the Tourism Sector Code, a category which has recently been under the spotlight for its slow pace of transformation.

Commenting on their positive achievement, Konrad Laker, CEO of Gold Travel, said that as a South African business owner transformation is a priority policy. “Tourism is an integral part of the South African economy and transformation should be at the forefront of the industry. This marks a significant milestone in our transformation drive; we will continue to find ways of enhancing our B-BBE efforts.”

www.goldtravel.co.za

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TRAVEL INDUSTRY NEWS

Staying Local is Lekker Premier Hotels & Resorts Group Sales & Marketing Manager, Grant Sandham, explains: “While the country’s exchange rate has been advantageous for foreign tourists, it has put pressure on locals’ pockets - leading to an increase in domestic leisure trips as opposed to international travel.”

Several properties within the Premier Hotels & Resorts portfolio have noted this trend, with the number of local holidaymakers received in 2016 surpassing not only that of 2015, but also the number of international guests – a contrast to the norm in some cases.

Sandham believes that the popularity of staycations will continue, particularly with South Africa teetering on the brink of a possible recession and belts having to be pulled even tighter.

However, he says that there is a silver lining.

“With domestic tourism being the backbone of the industry, which contributes about 9% to the country’s gross domestic product, the more people who opt for staycations, the greater the impact on the industry and, in turn, the economy.

IIn addition to stimulating the economy, staycations are better for the environment, given that the need for long distance flights is reduced, which cuts down on CO2 emissions.

According to international conservation charity, the World Land Trust’s flight calculator, a return trip for a family of four from Johannesburg to Paris produces 14.69 tonnes of CO2. In contrast, their journey to Cape Town and back would only emit 1.69 tonnes.”

He adds that, for him, the most significant benefit of staycations is that people get to discover gems hidden in their own backyard.

“South Africa encompasses everything from urban jungles, wildlife and deserts to beaches, mountains and forests, not to mention the cultural melting pot of people. Why would anyone want to go elsewhere?”

“Wherever staycationers decide to enjoy their next ‘holistay’, they will be assured of a World Class African experience at Premier Hotels & Resorts’ 16 properties around the country,” concludes Sandham.

www.premierhotels.co.za

Horse riding in iSimangaliso Wetland Park

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What’s news...

International award for iSimangaliso’s Andrew Zaloumis... taking people-centred conservation to a new level At a ceremony held in Frankfurt, Germany, KfW Stiftung recently honoured environmentalist, Andrew Zaloumis, for his outstanding commitment to conservation and visionary management as CEO of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park.

Zaloumis, who was nominated by UNESCO for the award, received the KfW-Bernhard-GrzimekPreis for his ground-breaking work in peoplecentred conservation in one of South Africa’s poorest regions.

The laudatory speech was given by Dr Fanny Douvere, coordinator of the UNESCO Marine Programme in Paris. “In taking World Heritage conservation to a whole new level, Andrew Zaloumis has given hope to and inspired both the youth of iSimangaliso and his World Heritage peers around the world,” Douvere comments.

“Marking the 30th anniversary of Bernhard Grzimek’s death, we are particularly pleased to honour Andrew Zaloumis whose personal commitment to a region, which is one of the richest in terms of biodiversity but at the same time one of the most endangered in Africa, is truly in the spirit of the man who has lent his name to the biodiversity award of KfW Stiftung.

Andrew Zaloumis’ approach to restoration of major ecosystems and its wildlife and sustainable management of natural resources is forward-

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looking and blazes a trail for many similar areas,” points out Dr Lutz-Christian Funke from the Board of KfW Stiftung.

Zaloumis first became involved in the iSimangaliso region as a human rights activist during apartheid.

During this time he worked with communities in the northern section of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park. He went on to follow in the footsteps of his father, the late Dr Nolly Zaloumis, who was fundamental to the Save St Lucia campaign.

Under the direction of Zaloumis, the iSimangaliso Wetland Park became South Africa’s first UNESCO World Heritage site. Zaloumis coined the term “developing to conserve” in the very early days of the redevelopment of the Park. His visionary programmes have turned a failing state asset into an important contributor to Kwa-Zulu Natal’s tourism GDP. iSimangaliso is responsible for some 8 000 tourism jobs, has created more than 160 000 short-term jobs, provided bursaries to young people for university education, offered training in tourism, construction, craft, art, agriculture among other, and opened doors for 215 entrepreneurs who have received seed capital for their businesses and mentoring.

On the ecological front, some 14000ha of exotic plantations have been removed, all but one of the historically naturally occurring animal species have been reintroduced in the

What’s news... iSimangaliso Wetland Park, and the ambitious St Lucia Estuary rehabilitation project is two months from completion. iSimangaliso is one of the eight most important biodiversity hot-spots on the planet. The area comprises five primary ecosystems, is home to 467 endangered and threatened species and is inhabited by eleven endemic species that cannot be found anywhere else.

“In order to conserve places like iSimangaliso, we need development plans that extend beyond industrial exploitation and economic costbenefit calculations. If we are to flourish moving forward, our continued growth rests on social justice, political inclusion and environmental responsibility. Approaches to conservation that prioritise education, economic independence and raising awareness of the value of nature are the foundations for the emergence of a new generation of supporters for this unique place – a new breed of conservationists motivated by a profound sympathy for human suffering, who will reject the financialisation of conservation and embody a love for Nature’s intrinsic worth.“ “Failure,“ Zaloumis states, “is not an option.”

In his acceptance speech at the awards ceremony, Zaloumis said, “I would like to thank the KfW for this award. There is no doubt it will strengthen iSimangaliso’s hand in mobilising the support and partners it needs. I would like

to thank the UNESCO Marine World Heritage Programme for holding the bar high and stimulating a vibrant community of marine site managers and specialists. Our status as a World Heritage Site has helped solidify iSimangaliso’s position among the world’s icons and promoted its conservation. Finally, I would also like to acknowledge the many people who have stood by my side to make this possible. This has been and is a team effort.”

“We are extremely proud of our CEO and his visionary leadership, which has positively impacted on the communities bordering our World Heritage Site, developed entrepreneurs who have themselves grown to win accolades for their excellence in products and service deliveries of different kinds, skilled young and old to take charge of their destinies while providing for their families, enlightened the youth, ignited interest in conservation and environmental matters from early on for school going children,“ says Buyani Zwane, Chairman of the iSimangaliso Board.

“This award is further acknowledgment of exceptional leadership and selfless dedication to conservation by a true son of the soil.

Congratulations. We learn and plough back to our communities, organisation, province and country. Eventually, the region and continent will experience the magic that is iSimangaliso,” Zwane concludes.

The awards ceremony was preceded by a panel discussion led by renowned professionals from science, environment protection and business and explored the topic, “The invisible crisis – our plastic waste in the world’s seas“.

Local students from six technical secondary schools with a teaching emphasis on mathematics, computer science, natural sciences and technology (MINT) also took part in an afternoon discussion with Zaloumis and scientists from Goethe University Frankfurt.

The teenagers – interested in learning more about the connections between Western lifestyle, its impact on the global environment and local nature conservation – discussed these issues with Zaloumis, who is responsible in iSimangaliso for more than 200kms of coastline, giving special attention to the problem of plastic waste and its harmful effects on the world’s oceans. •

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responsible travel

There’s so much to discover in Cape Town & the Western Cape. Why not try and make a difference while you’re here on your adventure? Be part of the “Green Travel” revolution when you choose and buy eco-friendly products. Explore with a tour operator that is socially and environmentally responsible. Research and know the culture of the community you are visiting so that you can respect their dignity and privacy – remember to ask for permission before you take pics. Don’t pick the flowers, or there won’t be any left when you visit again.

Be inspired to help future generations discover more.

www.discoverctwc.co.za discoverctwc @discoverctwc discoverctwc #discoverctwc