ANNUAL IMPACT REPORT 2023/24
Celebrating
75 years
4 Essential Services & Operations Infrastructure Development Feedback Business Services Brand Awareness & Public Relations Finances - NCT Finances - SSPT& SSNR The Way Forward A Word of Thanks Table of Contents Introduction Chairman’s message CEO’s message SSNR Board Members Joint Operating Committees Preservation of Sabi Sand Wildlife Aerial Count Predator Monitoring Wildlife Interventions Preserving Sabi Sand’s Flora Rainfall Fires SSNRʼs Contribution to the Pangolin Species Wildlife Protection Technological Advancements ADrop in Security Incidents Cutting Edge Technology Project Enhancement Working with our Neighbours for Good Educating Sabi Sand Communities Educating the Next Generation Sabi Sand School Working Together for our Environment Saving the Sand River Fostering a Conservation Economy Youth Empowerment Enterprise Development 5 5 6 7 8 9 11 13 15 17 19 20 21 25 27 29 31 32 33 35 37 39 41 43 44 45 47 49 51 53 55 57 59 60 61 63
5 Dear Members Last year was an eventful year for the Sabi Sand Nature Reserve (SSNR). Based on a memberconsultative process, some very important changes were made to the way we govern ourselves. Most of these changes were incorporated into a revised and more modern constitution. Board Composition & Functioning The Executive Committee (Exco) was restructured into an eight (8) member board; four (4) were voted in by their respective Regional members and the other four (4) were voted in by all members. All board members are Non-Executive Directors (NEDs) and their appointment would be for three (3) year terms (maximum nine (9) consecutive years). Constitutional latitude was also created to appoint an independent non-executive chairman at a time when the new board deemed it financially and legally appropriate to do so. In addition to the above, the newly elected board would establish two (2) main board committees; Audit & Risk and Remuneration. Importantly, the board would be responsible for approving the strategic plan/s of the SSNR, the annual business plan and budget – including all levies, appointing senior management, approving all relevant policies, overseeing the work of the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and his/her team and delegating authority to the CEO. CEO Appointment Iain Olivier was appointed as the new CEO in November 2023. We are delighted that he accepted this important role. We have already witnessed a significant shift in the way the Association is managed and we have every confidence in our management team for the year ahead. Conservation 2023 was a monumental year for conservation at the Reserve. In partnership with African Parks, we launched an ambitious re-wilding initiative to reintroduce 2 000 White Rhinos across Protected Areas. Sabi Sand was selected as a key reception park for a significant number of these rhinos, bolstering our efforts in wildlife conservation. This initiative not only aids in the preservation of a critically endangered species but also reinstates our commitment to maintaining the biodiversity of the Greater Kruger Landscape. We're proud to stand at the forefront of conservation in Africa, with our dedicated team leading these efforts. Dehorning Last year marked significant progress in our rhino conservation strategy, specifically through our dehorning efforts. The expert handling and care by our teams ensured the process was conducted without incident, proving crucial in our fight against poaching. This proactive approach continues to be a fundamental aspect of our conservation plan, ensuring the safety and stability of our rhino population. Security Our security teams faced considerable challenges last year, yet their dedication and resilience have kept our Reserve safe. In 2024, we are enhancing our strategy by incorporating advanced technologies and optimizing our Anti-Poaching Units (APUs), going internally, and scaling up the integrity of all teams. Improved collaboration with neighbouring Protected Areas will be crucial to address the escalating issues surrounding bush meat poaching and snares. Our efforts at the frontline of conservation security are more critical than ever. Sabi Sand Pfunanani Trust The Sabi Sand Pfunanani Trust has been instrumental in intertwining community development with conservation efforts. This past year, we drove (with partners) a Sustainable Development initiative to redefine and align our strategies with community needs, emphasizing economic and social development alongside ecological preservation. This has highlighted our commitment to sustainable conservation practices that benefit both our natural heritage and the surrounding communities. Community Land Inclusion In 2023, we made significant strides towards including community lands within the broader framework of the SSNR. This integration is essential for the sustainable future of our Reserve, promising enhanced environmental stewardship and community benefits. The process involves close coordination with landowners, community leaders, and governmental bodies, ensuring that the inclusion is seamless and mutually beneficial. Work on the Dixie land is at the forefront; significant ties have been made to its incorporation and we will be tabling these for discussion in 2024. Shaws Headquarters Significant upgrades were completed at the Shaws HQ enhancing our operational capabilities. The first phase of construction included new housing for staff, a state-of-the-art Message from our Chairman
6 Our mission is clear – to strengthen the bonds with our neighbouring communities and landowners. They are integral to our past and essential for our future, as partners in business and stewards in society. This holistic approach to conservation is what will ensure our enduring legacy, for the belief remains that to be a good neighbour is to forge a path of sustainability that withstands the test of time. I am humbled by the trust placed in me by our previous EXCO and the new board, whose support has been instrumental in guiding our journey. As we look towards the challenges and opportunities of 2024 and beyond, we are united in our aim to elevate the Sabi Sand to new heights. Through unity, we intend to amplify the significant, scalable conservation efforts led by those within and beyond our Protected Areas, with a prioritized evolution of the Sabi Sand's reach and impact. As I stand on the threshold of this era, it is with a profound sense of duty that I call upon our collective effort to illuminate the path of conservation in Africa and the world. Let us continue to be a beacon of hope, where families from across the globe can return to share in the magnificence of our wilderness. Together, let us forge a legacy that our children and grandchildren will cherish and sustain for generations to come. Yours in conservation, Message from our CEO Vernon Cresswell Iain Olivier Dear Members, As I embrace the role of CEO of the Sabi Sand Nature Reserve, I am profoundly grateful for the unwavering support extended by all members throughout my tenure as the Reserve Manager and now, in these new beginnings since March 2024. It is a privilege to continue the esteemed legacy of this pioneering sanctuary, which has long been recognized as the oldest Private Nature Reserve in Southern Africa. In the spirit of our forebears, we strive not only to persevere but to thrive amidst the dynamic and digital global community and the complexities of the South African financial landscape. In the wake of a global pandemic that has fundamentally altered our world, we are committed to a robust recovery, innovating in ecotourism to flourish in a society that seeks connection in new, safer forms. Control and War Room, and several other essential facilities, totalling an investment of R 9,027,356.24. The second phase focused on expanding our infrastructural capacity, including a new office cluster, and extensive external works, amounting to R 4,127,089.03. These upgrades have significantly bolstered our operational efficiency and readiness, positioning us well for future challenges. The Way Forward Big changes were agreed to and actioned upon last year. We made history in 2023. Having said that, we have a lot on our plate next year, but with a new board and a CEO mandated to execute our strategy, we are confident for the road ahead. As always, I would like to thank our management team for their hard work and dedication this past year. In addition, a huge thanks to our previous Exco members for the role they played and for demonstrating a willingness to make necessary changes to our modus operandi. I honestly believe we have a very good balance of board members representing the Association – commercial, private, big, and small. Members spoke. We listened. We actioned. This was not possible without support from ALL members. A BIG thank you to all members for their role played in getting us through a rather challenging year. Thank you for the opportunity to serve you over the past year. We are confident of the year ahead and look forward to working together. Kind regards,
7 Chairperson Vernon Cresswell Buffelshoek Luke Bailes Castleton & Ravenscourt Sir Mick Davis Exeter Nothern JOC Region Hannes Feuth Arathusa Treasurer Wiehann Fourie Dudley Western JOC Region Louis Kruger Wallingford Southern JOC Region Guy More Kingstown Central JOC Region Bruce (Doc) Watson Sparta & Marthly Sabi Sand Nature Reserve Board Members
8 BUFFELSHOEK CASTLETON UTHLA GOWRIE DUDLEY EXETER SPARTA OTHAWA TOULON SHAWS MARTHLY ARATHUSA KINGSTOWN LISBON WALLINGFORD ALICECOT RAVENSCOURT TOULON CHARLESTON FLOCKFIELD MALAMALA EYREFIELD 0 2,5 5 10 Kilometers Sabie Game Reserve Mala Mala SAND RIVER SABIE RIVER Musutlu Tiellahanga Kapene Tukwane Mshabeni Maxipiri Shisakashakoti Mluwati Manyeleti Mzieme Phungwe Hukumurhi Khokhovela Tswayini Shaw’s Gate Newington Gate Gowrie Gate Rhino Park Picket NW Corner Picket Dumphries Picket Metsi Picket K9 Picket Torchwood Picket APU Base Toulon Picket Toulon Gate Dumphries Gate Toulon House Kirkman’s Kamp Tengile River Lodge More House Lion Sands Ngumi Camp Crafford’s Camp Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge Sabi Sabi Selati Sabi Sabi Little Bush Sabi Sabi Notten’s Wildpark Luilekker Camp Umkumbe Camp Dudley Camp Castleton Camp Savanna Mackenzie Camp Ulusaba Hangar Ulusaba Cliff Lodge Ulusaba Rock Lodge Ululapa Ingwe Camp Leopard Hills Mick Davis’ House Dulini Idube Singita Boulders Dave Wright’s House Singita Ebony Allan Taylor’s House Londolozi Dave Varty’s House Doc Watson’s House Inyati Dulini Leadwood Dulini River Othawa Camp Picinnini Uthla Morningside Simbambili Ntoma Arathusa Pvt Elephant Plains Silvan Safari Arathusa Safari Hoffman’s Camp Wessel’s Camp Gatiep’s Camp Annette’s Camp Jaci’s Sabi House Chitwa Chitwa Cheetah Plains Jacobin Lodge Nkorho Torchwood Djuma Galago Djuma Vuyatela Baobab Hardekool Jacana Nsinga Cruse Camp Cruse Camp 2 Milkberry Khaya Manzi Huntersmoon KRUGER NATIONAL PARK MANYELETI GAME RESERVE SABI SAND NATURE RESERVE JOC Regions JOC West JOC South JOC North KRUGER NATIONAL PARK JOC Central Sabi Sand Nature Reserve Non-Executive Board Executive Management (CEO, COO, CFO) Consultation Communication Northern JOC 1 x board rep Central JOC 1 x board rep Western JOC 1 x board rep Southern JOC 1 x board rep Arathusa Buffelshoek Gowrie Uthla Ravenscourt Castleton Othawa Marthly Sparta Alicecot Exeter Wallingford Dudley Kingstown Toulon
9 PRESERVATION OF SABI SAND
10 “Without love of the land, Conservation lacks meaning or purpose, for only in a deep and inherent feeling for the land can there be dedication in preserving it.” Sigurd F. Olson
11 WILDLIFE AERIAL COUNT
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13 PREDATOR MONITORING 13 Meet the PANTHERA TEAM Nikki le Roex Coordinator: Sabi Sands Leopard Project Contact: [email protected] Melvin Ollewagen Coordinator: Software Development Gareth Mann Director: Leopard Program Kristi Maciejewski Regional Director: South & East Africa Guy Balme Executive Director: Conservation Science Panthera is a global NGO devoted to the conservation of the world’s 40 species of wild cats and the ecosystems which they inhabit. Understanding leopard ecology and behaviour can mitigate the impact of persecution and protect at-risk populations. Due to the relaxed nature of the Sabi Sand leopards, Panthera has been working within the Protected Area for the past 15 years focusing on the most extensive individual-based leopard study in the world. Panthera has partnered with Reserve Management teams, universities, conservation trusts and other NGOs to share the knowledge gathered within the Sabi Sand which in turn provides answers to ecological, behavioural, and management questions in a scientific manner. In 2023, almost 20 000 sightings were recorded on the SSNR; see the breakdown in the below table:
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15 WILDLIFE INTERVENTIONS In November 2023, the SSNR Conservation team received a report of an elephant calf which had a snare around its leg. Thankfully, the snare had not yet cause any serious injuries by cutting into the young elephant’s leg. A team was quickly assembled, including the Mpumalanga Tourism and P a r k s Association (MTPA) and wildlife v eterinarians. The cable snare was successfully removed and the elephant calf recovered quickly after sedation. Shortly afterwards, the calf reunited w i t h i t s h e r d a n d mother. Late in 2023, the SSNR Conservation team received a report from a neighbouring reserve of a male leopard with a snare around its neck near the SSNR boundary. The animal had been carrying the snare for a few weeks and the wound was becoming life-threatening. Therefore, the SSNR decided to assist with the intervention. The team was able to locate the leopard quickly, after which it was darted. The snare was successfully removed and the vets treated the wound around the neck. Following the successful operation, t h e l e o p a r d h a s b e e n recovering well.
16 Together with Elephants Alive, SSNR assisted to collar an elephant cow. In 2023, Elephants Alive informed SSNR that the battery was running out, therefore, the collar needed to be replaced. Tagging an elephant cow contributes to a long-term study on elephant movements and social behaviour. Elephants Alive are working with many reserves and hope to use this valuable information in their future efforts to promote harmonious co-existence between people and elephants. T h e SSNR recently facilitated the replacement of a faulty collar on a wild dog. Initially, the alpha female was presumed to be dead as her tracking collar suddenly stopped transmitting. However, she was found and the faulty collar was replaced with a new state-of-the-art Sigfox/VHF collar.
17 PRESERVING SABI SANDʼS FLORA Vegetation summary Grass: • There is currently a very high proportion of perennial grasses (cover – distance and tuft size) in the SSNR, the highest in history of data collection. • High stocking densities will have had an impact on grass composition and cover. • SSNR has a high ecological potential in relation to surrounding reserves. Trees: • Woody density was declining in 2021/22 but has increased in 2022/23. • Grass competition is strong due to soil moisture, but the tree layer is currently competing strongly with the grass. • There has been an overall reduction since 2015/16. Elephant Impact In 2023, new elephant impact on trees in the SSNR has decreased significantly, with 98% of sampled trees showing no new signs of impact. This reduction is attributed to improved grass conditions, which reduced the need for elephants to move in search of resources. Tree mortality was minimal at 0.1% in 2022/23. The stabilization of elephant impact in recent years highlights the importance of ongoing monitoring and the need for targeted management strategies. Lantana Mexican Poppy Brazilian Nightshade Madagascar Periwinkle
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19 RAINFALL Gowrie Newington Shaws Toulon 512.2mm 487.1mm 439.8mm 390.5mm
20 FIRES
21 SSNRʼS CONTRIBUTION TO THE PANGOLIN SPECIES
22 “An understanding of the natural world and what’s in it is a source of not only great curiosity, but great fulfillment.” Sir David Attenborough
23 The Temminck's Ground Pangolin Project was initiated on SSNR at the end of 2022 in an effort to help protect this vulnerable species through the implementation of several management strategies; the project started by establishing a strong and sustainable pangolin protection fence section along the SSNR boundary to prevent pangolin electrocutions. This was made possible by a generous donation from Wildlife Crime Prevention allowing us to test various options. The project then grew to include additional strategies such as gathering data on the reserve's current pangolin population, contributing to pangolin research to develop a national pangolin database, as well as releasing pangolin who have been recovered from the Illegal Wildlife Trade (IWT) onto SSNR. Pangolin Protection Fence Between 1 500 – 2 000 pangolins are electrocuted in Southern Africa each year. In 2023, the SSNR teams recovered 10 pangol ins from our fence. To mitigate this issue, we developed a pangolin protection fence to prevent pangolin and other small wildlife species fr o m g e t t i n g c a u g h t a n d electrocuted in our fence line. To date, the SSNR team has completed approximately 15 kilometres of the fence and aims to complete a further 40km which will cover the entire SSNR boundary, excluding SGR’s 16 km section. SSNR Pangolin Population The SSNR team is working in collaboration with Panthera and resident lodges within the Reserve to ensure all pangolin sightings are reported, recorded and analysed so that we can better understand the pangolin population dynamics and distribution across SSNR. This will be vital for the release project as we can then reintroduce pangolins from the IWT into areas on the Reserve that have lower pangolin densities to ensure competition for food and territory is kept to a minimum.
24 Pangolin Release Project Over the course of the past year, the SSNR team has been working in collaboration with the Mpumalanga Pa r k s a n d To u ri s m As s o c i a t i o n ( M TPA), CONSERV.earth and Care for Wild Rehabilitation Centre to become an officially approved pangolin release site. There is a great need for more reserves that are well protected, large enough and have the necessary resources to not only release trafficked pangolins, but also to protect and maintain existing pangolin populations. This allows us to release pangolins that have been confiscated from the IWT after they have undergone treatment at a wildlife rehabilitation centre and are healthy enough to survive out in the wild once more. This reintroduction project is vitally important for pangolin conservation as the poaching pressure on these animals has increased to the extent where pangolins are now the most trafficked mammal in the world. We have acquired specialised equipment for tracking and monitoring released pangolins to ensure they remain healthy and well during their reintroduction back into the wild. The SSNR team is on standby and ready to mobilise should a pangolin be recovered from the IWT and become available for release. Pangolin Research Project SSNR will be participating in a largescale research project that is being conducted by the University of Pretoria to create a National pangolin database using DNA that is collected from both wild pangolins and those that have been recovered from the IWT. Various DNA samples will be taken from several pangolin populations across Southern Africa so that this data can be analysed and compared with pangolins that are recovered from the trade. This will enable us to identify from which specific region a trafficked pangolin originates and thus which area would be best suited for repatriation. The data will also provide us with a better understanding of how pangolins are affected by various factors, such as diet, disease and parasites which can potentially influence the management of pangolin populations.
25 WILDLIFE PROTECTION “If working apart we’re a force powerful enough to destabalise our planet, surely, working together we are powerful enough to save it.” Sir David Attenborough
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27 TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCEMENTS With the ever-growing operations, the existing SSNR Control Room and War Room provided limited space in which to operate. Therefore, as part of the HQ infrastructure development plan, a new War Room and Control Room was constructed which allows for sufficient space when conducting operations as well as continual growth.
28 The newly established SSNR Control Room at the Shaws HQ boasts high performance equipment with unique characteristic elements which enables our Control Room staff to successfully perform observation, tracking, analysis, and control for critical decision making 24 hours, 7 days a week. Our Control Room staff also received new, state-of-the-art, orthopaedic chairs which enables them to sit comfortably during the incredibly long hours. “...high performance equipment...” “...24 hours, 7 days a week...”
29 A DROP IN SECURITY INCIDENTS EXTERNALINVESTIGATIONS Over the reporting period, SSNR sadly lost one rhino due to poaching. The suspects, however, did not escape with the horns which were safely retrieved by the SSNR security team for safekeeping. However, we are pleased to report that through our extensive external operations, we have had positive results in the apprehension of 43 suspected poachers and the recovery of 21 illegal firearms ranging from light to high calibre hunting rifles. INTEGRITY Our comprehensive Deception Policy continued successfully and has been running smoothly with 12 individuals removed from property due to their involvement in various criminal activities, including theft and poaching. This intervention has been essential to our operations and enhances our capability to deny access to undesirable staff who are or have been internally involved with poaching and/or criminal syndicates. The SSNR's main threat remains internal involvement from staff, therefore, it is imperative that we adhere to our Deception Policy. The Policy is managed exceptionally well, and we receive good cooperation and support from our lodges to implement it. The security team is in the process of also getting all service provider staff polygraphed; those who regularly enter the Reserve for deliveries, transfers, etc. “...apprehension of 43 suspected poachers...” “...recovery of 21 illegal firearms...” “...12 individuals removed from property...” The SSNR security department has worked diligently over the last 12 months ensuring that our security measures remained intact; in turn, this ensured that we maintained our operational security.
30 SECURITY MEASURES We are proud to report that we now have two fully equipped, highly motivated, SSNR Ranger teams deployed to the Southern and Western regions of the Reserve. The teams are doing exceptionally well in safeguarding their responsibility areas. These teams are also supported by thermal drone capability. The Sabi Sand will be acquiring additional thermal cameras to extend our coverage along our boundaries, with the assistance of a generous donation received from the MJA Wildlife Fund; these thermal cameras will be erected in previously identified high risk areas/routes. In addition, the SSNR security team has successfully increased trap camera coverage in their responsibility areas; the cameras are all well-managed and all data feeds into our Control Room to be analysed. We will also be acquiring additional trap cameras in the coming Financial Year. The SSNR security department is in the process of evaluating new technology and equipment that could potentially be utilized in the field; if our evaluations are positive, the technology will be rolled out to more areas across the Reserve. HORN TRIMMING The SSNR underwent a follow-up dehorning/horntrimming operation in October 2023. The operation ran smoothly and assists tremendously in making our rhino undesirable for poachers to target.
31 CUTTING EDGE TECHNOLOGY
32 DRONES Early in the 2023/24 Financial Year, 2 smaller drones were purchased to compliment the DJI Maverick M30T drones during operations. Pilot training is underway to have certified drone pilots operating within SSNR. GATES The new PreAuthify system is being developed to accommodate credit card machines and steer away from cash. The system is working well so far; some additional development is underway for the GCC calculation and automation. Through the SSPT, SSNR was able to install solar power at Newington Gate which provides power to the gate, Sabi Sand School, borehole, and the Ranger Picket. RADIO SYSTEMS Over the past 5 years, the SSNR structure has grown tremendously, therefore requiring higher capacity radio repeaters. Two new repeaters were fitted to two towers to provide improved coverage in the central and southern regions of the Reserve. LoRA Radios have been historically also used for tracking purposes; however, with an extensive LoRAWAN Network within the SSNR (98% coverage), LoRA devices have been issued to all security teams in the field. This has greatly improved our tracking data and has become a key tool in internal investigations. TECHNOLOGY One PTZ camera has been erected on the Castleton fence line together with 2 static cameras on Newington Main facing North and South; one PTZ is with Dimension Data; once delivered, it will be deployed on the Dudley property. There is also one static camera which will be deployed at Billion Corner on Buffelshoek. The PTZ will then move further south to add detection north of Gowrie Gate. SSNR has partnered with Connected C o n s e r v a t i o n Foundation (CCF) to measure the impact of technology on the Reserve. So far, the project has shown promising results. PROJECT ENHANCEMENT
33 WORKING WITH OUR NEIGHBOURS FOR GOOD “Community is where we find meaning and purpose outside of ourselves.” Unknown 4 PILLARS: 1 EDUCATION 2 ENVIRONMENT
34 3 YOUTH EMPOWERMENT 4 ENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT
35 Coaching Conservation: teaches learners about the value of wildlife and encourages appreciation. School Safaris: learners experience a guides game drive within SSNR, learning about wildlife, nature and the environment. Coding & Robotics: learners use Lego robotics kits to develop computational thinking and coding and robotic skills. A new Creative Arts and Citizenship immersion program is currently being developed. OPEN LEARNING ACADEMY(OLA) The OLA exists to provide access to digital learning for primary school children within 29 rural schools in the surrounding communities of the Sabi Sand Nature Reserve. Grade 3 and 4 learners are exposed to the development of literacy and numeracy skills with the use of apps and digital content. Lessons are filled with fun, movement, games, songs, and activities. In 2023, GWF initiated a new program, Open Learning Plus, which builds on the foundations laid by OLA Phase 1. Grade 5-7 learners participate in three-hour ïmmersions” to encourage curiosity, problem solving, thinking, logic and reasoning, creativity and innovation and agency. EDUCATING SABI SAND COMMUNITIES In partnership with GWF bridges the gap by launching DLCs in rural areas which employ 147 staff. Pioneering a learning model for rural Africa. 2 522 OLA Learners learn to code with Lego robots 7 000 learners reached each year.
36 BRIDGING YEAR ACADEMY(BYA) This program has seven streams which aim to bridge the gap between what young people may have learnt in high school and what they need to know in the 21st century workplace, college/university, or as aspiring entrepreneurs. The BYA provides students with the opportunity to enhance their skills to become work-ready.`The 7 streams of the program include: English, Employability, Digital Literacy, Online Learning, Digital Footprint, Career Pathing, and Ready to Work. CAREER ACADEMY The BYA students are often recruited into one of these 4 academies: IT, Hospitality, Conservation or Facilitator Academy, which are linked to industries in the Greater Kruger National Park areas. The career training academies aim to grow these young adults into highly employable graduates by connecting them to meaningful employment opportunities in travel and tourism, IT and facilitation, or employment in GWF’s own business process outsourcing (BPO) centre. GWF is stepping in to bridge the gap between school & what lies beyond. 72% of BYA students are women. SABI SAND’S CONTRIBUTIONS The GWF has made a significant impact in the education and youth empowerment space within the landscape since it’s inception in 2006. A large number of children and youth have progressed academically, some even managed to secure job opportunities through the empowerment of their Bridging and Career Academies. The Sabi Sand is proud to be a contributing partner of such an impactful program. The SSNR/SSPT has pledged to contribute R1,7 million to GWF in the 2024/25 FY to ensure the sustainability of educating our neighbouring communities. 15 Contact Centre agents employed.
37 EDUCATING THE NEXT GENERATION 2019 Reach: 200 learners 10 safari drives 2020 - 2021: 0 (Covid-19) 2022 Reach: 1 117 learners 60 drives 2023 Reach: 1 131 learners 80 safari drives IMPACT SINCE INCEPTION Over 500% increase in learners 700% increase in game drives Over 200% increase in partners 2 jobs created &Beyond Dulini Ulusaba Inyati Lion Sands Good Work Foundation Singita Savanna Leopard Hills Africa Foundation More Community Foundation Singita Lowveld Trust In partnership with: Londolozi
38 The Sabi Sand School Safaris has reached an all-time high since the pilot project in 2019; in 2019, the total number of learners reached amounted to 200, compared to 2023 where 1 131 learners participated in the program. The learners have been treated to some great sightings; with the purchase of two game viewers and the employment of two dedicated YES interns, the experiences have surpassed expectations. The education aspects provided during the game drives have been vast and of high standard, providing a high engagement level between learners, guides and interns. Agreat deal of collaboration and partnership has been instrumental in the success of the School Safaris. With new partners coming on board, the number of partners has increased by more than 200% since 2019; without these entities, the project would not be possible. Therefore, we would like to thank Lion Sands, &Beyond, Singita, Savanna, Dulini, Inyati, Leopard Hills, Ulusaba, and Londolozi for their efforts and contributions. The goal is that our partnership will expand even further in future. In 2024, the program will be expanded to the schools in the northern areas of the reserve which will further boost the impact and reach of the project. To further enhance the reach of the Sabi Sand School Safaris, the SSPT has partnered with Africa Foundation to initiate a school-based environmental education and awareness program. The emphasis is on supporting the “Science” of an African STEM education drive: Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. The program is structured according to three sets of activities: • The facilitation of a curriculum aligned with an environmental learning and awareness process. • Environmental activities such as game drives, clean-up campaigns and planting of trees. • The identification of champions who will be exposed to a working environment based on the careers they are interested in. The SSPT is developing a strategy to bring these Champions into the reserve and lodges to apply what they have learned in a practical manner, which will in turn provide them with work experience creating a higher chance of employment as they advance in their careers.
39 SABI SAND SCHOOL
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41 WORKING TOGETHER FOR OUR ENVIRONMENT Cattle Rangelands After successfully developing and implementing the Cattle Rangeland Project, the SSNR has identified a way in which to further safeguard the farmers’ livestock by looking into fire protection. With a helping hand from the Department of Agriculture, the SSNR has developed a Fire Plan for the farmers; this includes designing designated fire break systems within the rangelands. A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was drafted and sent to the Department’s legal team. Once the agreement has been approved, the Fire Plan will commence. The team has been working well with the farmers to ensure the long-term sustainability of the rangelands. We are looking forward to protecting the farmers’ rangelands while also possibly expanding the project by partnering with Conservation South Africa (CSA). Community Rabies Campaign In partnership with the Savanna Trust, the Sabi Sand Pfunanani Trust initiated a much-needed rabies campaign in the Reser ve’s neighbouring communities. The vaccination campaign commenced in the Reserve’s in September 2023 and consists of state veterinarians and well as Dr. Bjorn. The campaign has taken place on a weekly basis where domestic dogs are being vaccinated against rabies. The team started off in the Dumphries community and have been gradually moving south to conclude in Huntington. SSPT and the Savanna Trust have been very pleased with the turnout and participation of local community members in getting domestic and stray dogs vaccinated to minimize the spread of this highly deadly disease.
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43 SAVING THE SAND RIVER
44 FOSTERING A CONSERVATION ECONOMY
45 YOUTH EMPOWERMENT
46 ENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT
47 ESSENTIAL SERVICES & OPERATIONS “Effective operations management is like conducting an orchestra. It requires skillful coordination of all the different players to create a harmonious & beautiful performance.” Unknown
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49 INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT