• R20 million secured funding through the DFFE-EPIP programme
• 4,200 hectares of prime conservation land under the lease agreement
• Environmental Impact Assessment approved (April 2024)
• Member of Greater Addo-Amathole Biodiversity Economy Node
• Established forestry operations with an existing client base
• 100% PDI ownership with government transformation support

The Problem

• The Eastern Cape has South Africa's highest unemployment rate at 36.5%
• Limited participation of previously disadvantaged individuals (PDIs) in the lucrative wildlife economy
• Degraded state land requiring rehabilitation and sustainable management
• Lack of transformation in the R4.3 billion South African wildlife industry
• Climate change impacts requiring adaptive land management practices
  
  

Our Solution

• A fully integrated biodiversity economy enterprise combining wildlife, agriculture, forestry, and tourism
• 100% Black ownership with demonstrated government support and transformation credentials
• Sustainable land rehabilitation, converting degraded agricultural land into productive conservation areas
• Job creation in rural communities through diverse economic activities
• Climate-resilient farming practices with renewable energy systems 
  
  

With 4,200 hectares of diverse habitat and R20 million in committed infrastructure funding, SAFTT provides a scalable model for biodiversity economy development whilst generating sustainable returns across multiple revenue streams.

Wildlife & Hunting Operations:

• Professional hunting packages for Big Five and plains game species
• Photographic safari experiences and wildlife viewing
• Live animal sales for breeding programmes and conservation initiatives
• Wildlife management and breeding services
  
  

Accommodation & Tourism:

• 20-bed eco-friendly hunting lodge with luxury amenities
• Corporate retreat and conference facilities
• Cultural tourism experiences showcasing local heritage
• Adventure tourism activities, including river access
  
  

Livestock & Agriculture:

• 280-300 head cattle ranch across 900 hectares
• 100 Boer goats, 100 Dohne-Merino sheep, 100 free-range chickens
• 100 hectares of irrigated crop production (lucerne, chilli peppers)
• Organic and sustainable farming practices
  
  

Forestry Operations:

• Commercial timber harvesting and processing
• Value-added products, including poles, laths, and transmission materials
• Alien invasive species management and Indigenous restoration
• Supply contracts with established clients (NCT Forestry, Sappi Saiccor)
  
  

Meat Processing:

• EU-standard meat processing facility for game and livestock
• Traditional biltong and dried meat product lines
• Supply to premium restaurants, hotels, and export markets
• Artisanal and speciality meat products
  
  

Value-Added Services:

• Training and skills development programmes
• Community development initiatives
• Conservation consulting and management services 
  
  

All operations are certified within the Greater Addo-Amathole Biodiversity Economy Node, ensuring premium market positioning and preferential access to support programmes. 

Target Segments

International Hunting Tourists: High-net-worth individuals from North America and Europe seeking authentic African hunting experiences,

Photographic Safari Market: The growing eco-tourism segment values sustainable, community benefiting experiences. 

Domestic Tourism: Affluent South African families and corporate clients seeking premium wildlife experiences and accommodation

Forestry & Timber Clients: Established relationships with major processors requiring a consistent, sustainable timber supply

Premium Food Market: Restaurants, hotels, and retail outlets demanding ethically sourced, traceable game meat and traditional products

Market Size & Growth

• Southern Africa safari tourism market: USD 11.70 billion (2023), projected CAGR of 9.8% to 2030
• South African hunting tourism: USD 250 million annually, supporting 17,000+ jobs
• Wildlife ranches generate an average revenue of USD 404/hectare vs USD 131/hectare for traditional livestock farms.
• Live game trade: R4.3 billion annually in South Africa
• Global timber market: USD 992.43 billion (2024), projected CAGR of 4.7%

Revenue Streams

Wildlife Hunting Operations (45%): Premium Big Five and plains game hunting packages, average R300,000 per client

Accommodation & Tourism (25%): Lodge accommodation, photographic safaris, corporate retreats

Forestry Operations (15%): Timber harvesting, processing, and value-added products

Meat Processing (8%): Game and livestock processing, traditional products, export sales

Live Animal Sales (4%): Breeding stock for conservation programmes and game ranches

Agriculture & Consulting (3%): Crop production, training services, conservation consulting 

Unit Economics Snapshot

• Big Five Hunting Package:
  
  • Cost: R120,000
  • Selling Price: R400,000
  • Gross Margin: 70%
    
    
• Lodge Accommodation (per person/night):
  
  • Cost: R800
  • Selling Price: R2,500
  • Gross Margin: 68%
    
    
• Overall Business Gross Margin: 60-68%, depending on revenue mix

Current Achievements: 

• R20 million DFFE-EPIP funding secured and committed
• Environmental Impact Assessment approved April 2024
• 4,200 hectares under a long-term lease agreement with DALRRD
• Greater Addo-Amathole Biodiversity Economy Node participation
• Established forestry client base with multi-year contracts
• Award recognition: 2017 & 2019 National Youth in Agriculture Awards 

SAFTT's operations actively contribute to biodiversity protection and ecosystem restoration:

Wildlife Conservation & Restoration

• Reintroduction of Indigenous game species to historical ranges, including buffalo, rhino, and antelope
• Population management aligned with ecological carrying capacity
• Contribution to regional wildlife corridors connecting Addo Elephant National Park and surrounding reserves
• Science-based conservation management practices with monitoring protocols
  
  

Habitat Rehabilitation

• Conversion of 3,000+ hectares from degraded agricultural land to natural grassland and bushveld ecosystems
• Alien invasive species control across the entire 4,200-hectare property
• Indigenous vegetation restoration using local seed sources
• Establishment of wildlife corridors and buffer zones
  
  

Climate Resilience & Carbon Management

• 100% renewable energy systems (solar, wind, biogas) for off-grid operation
• Carbon sequestration through grassland restoration and sustainable forestry practices
• Water conservation via rainwater harvesting, greywater recycling, and efficient irrigation
• Sustainable building materials and construction practices
  
  

Community-Based Conservation

• Training programmes for local communities in wildlife management and eco-tourism
• Traditional ecological knowledge integration with modern conservation practices
• Preferential employment and procurement from surrounding communities
• Educational programmes for local schools focusing on biodiversity and entrepreneurship

Near-Term (12-18 months): 

• Complete wildlife stocking programme with Big Five introduction
• Launch hunting lodge operations with an initial 50% occupancy target
• Establish a processing facility for game meat and traditional products
• Develop international marketing partnerships and booking platforms
  
  

Mid-Term (2-3 years):

• Expand accommodation capacity to 40 beds with conference facilities
• Secure international hunting concessions and outfitter partnerships
• Launch photographic safari and eco-tourism packages
• Develop organic certification for agricultural products
  
  

Long-Term (3-5 years):

•  Replicate the model across additional Eastern Cape properties
• Establish SAFTT as the leading transformation operator in the wildlife industry
• Develop a training academy for biodiversity economy skills development
• Explore carbon credit and ecosystem services revenue opportunities 

• R801,091 quarterly revenue (Q1 2025)
• 1,590-hectare prime hunting property with 20+ game species including Cape Buffalo
• 80% client retention rate with established international clientele
• 24-bed luxury accommodation facility with specialised PWD amenities
• 16 permanent staff expanding to 160+ during peak seasons
• 100% Black woman-owned enterprise with strong transformation credentials 

• Limited transformation in South Africa's wildlife economy sector
• Lack of value-added processing in the game meat industry
• Insufficient premium hunting destinations owned by historically disadvantaged individuals
• High unemployment in rural Eastern Cape communities
• Fragmented wildlife tourism offerings lacking comprehensive service integration
  
  

Our Solution Capstone addresses these challenges by offering:

• Authentic, premium African hunting experiences led by an experienced Black woman entrepreneur
• End-to-end wildlife tourism services from hunting to luxury accommodation
• Value-added game meat processing creates additional revenue streams
• Meaningful employment opportunities for local communities
• Comprehensive wildlife management supporting conservation objectives
  
  

Our Products & Services

Capstone operates a diversified wildlife enterprise offering:

Primary Services:

International Trophy Hunting:  Premium hunting packages (R12,000-R220,000) featuring 20+ game species, including Cape Buffalo, targeting affluent international clients

Luxury Accommodation:  24-bed lodge facility with self-catering (R3,000/night) and full-service options (R2,800/person/night)

Game Meat Sales:  Current sales at R31/kg to local abattoirs with expansion planned for value-added processing

Planned Services (Post-Investment):

Premium Game Meat Processing:  Value-added products targeting retail and restaurant markets

Eco-Tourism Experiences:  Game viewing and cultural experiences for non-hunting tourists

Corporate & Conference Services:  Specialised venue for corporate events and team building

Educational Programs:  Wildlife conservation and cultural heritage experiences

Target Segments

International Trophy Hunters (85% of revenue): Affluent clients aged 35-65 from the USA (40%), EU (45%), and UK (15%)

Domestic Recreational Hunters (15% of revenue): South African residents seeking biltong hunting and recreational experiences

Eco-Tourism Market (Growth opportunity): International and domestic tourists seeking authentic African experiences

Corporate Clients: Companies requiring unique venues for events and team building

Market Size & Growth

• The South African hunting industry contributes US$341 million annually, supporting 17,000+ jobs
• Eastern Cape is positioned as the premier malaria-free hunting destination
• Wildlife ranching auction values grew from R93 million (2005) to R1.8 billion (2014)
• Trophy hunting contributes R15 billion annually to the South African economy
  
  

Competitive Edge

Revenue Streams

Trophy Hunting Operations (60%): International and domestic hunting packages with an average value of R65,000 per international client

Accommodation Services (25%): Lodge operations serving hunting clients and eco-tourists

Game Meat Processing (10%): Value-added meat products for retail and commercial markets

Eco-Tourism & Corporate Services (5%): Diversified tourism offerings for broader market appeal

Unit Economics

International Hunting Package: Average R65,000 with 55% gross margin

Accommodation (per night): R2,900 average rate with 60% gross margin

Processed Game Meat: R180/kg (vs. R31/kg unprocessed) with 70% gross margin

Customer Retention Rate: 80%, demonstrating exceptional service quality 

Operational History & Traction 

Operational Strengths:

Strategic Location: 1,590 hectares with dual highway access (N2/N6)

Diverse Infrastructure: 24-bed lodge, entertainment areas, specialised facilities

Experienced Team: Professional hunters, experienced management, skilled staff

Conservation Compliance: Full regulatory compliance with environmental authorities  

Capstone's operations actively contribute to biodiversity conservation through:

Sustainable Wildlife Management  

• Scientific population monitoring and sustainable harvest quotas
• Breeding programmes enhancing genetic diversity
• Habitat management supporting 20+ Indigenous species
• Professional veterinary partnerships ensuring animal health
  
  

Ecosystem Enhancement 

• Habitat restoration across 1,590 hectares
• Water point development supporting wildlife populations
• Vegetation management promoting ecological diversity
• Anti-poaching security protecting valuable wildlife assets
  
  

Conservation Partnerships

• Collaboration with DFFE, ECPTA, SANParks, and SANBI
• Participation in wildlife conservation programs
• Educational initiatives promoting conservation awareness
• Research partnerships supporting conservation science

Phase 1 (Year 1-2): Infrastructure Development

• Construct a dedicated game meat processing facility
• Expand accommodation capacity from 24 to 36 beds
• Enhance anti-poaching security systems
• Develop eco-tourism infrastructure 
  
  

Phase 2 (Year 2-3): Market Expansion

• Launch premium game meat product lines
• Develop corporate and conference services
• Expand international marketing efforts
• Establish distribution partnerships
  
  

Phase 3 (Year 3-5): Market Leadership

• Achieve R15+ million annual revenue
• Establish a regional market leadership position
• Develop additional properties or partnerships
• Create employment for 50+ permanent staff

Structural inequality in conservation: 

The wildlife economy in South Africa has historically benefited primarily economic elites, tourist operators, hunters, and commercial farmers, with limited meaningful participation by local communities. This structural inequality is evident in those who benefit from conservation activities, protected areas, and profits associated with the sustainable use of natural resources. 

Limited community benefits:

Local communities have traditionally received minimal benefits from conservation activities beyond menial jobs such as trackers, rangers, and hospitality staff, with occasional game meat donations. This exclusion from meaningful economic participation creates resentment and undermines conservation efforts.

Vulnerability to organised crime:

Limited economic opportunities make community members vulnerable to recruitment by organised crime networks involved in poaching activities, as evidenced by several case dockets opened at Gravelotte South African Police Service.

Illegal wildlife trade:

Snaring for the bushmeat trade has become one of the most prominent threats to wildlife at the Greater Balepye Nature Reserve. This activity is not driven primarily by subsistence needs but has developed into a commercial enterprise, threatening biodiversity conservation efforts.

Habitat degradation:

Unsustainable resource extraction, including timber harvesting for fuelwood, threatens the region's ecosystem integrity and biodiversity conservation. 

Skills gap and knowledge deficit:

There is limited understanding within the community regarding biodiversity conservation, climate change adaptation, and sustainable natural resource management, creating barriers to effective participation in conservation initiatives.

Regulatory and administrative challenges:

Complex permitting systems with centralised decisionmaking create bureaucratic hurdles that delay operations and reduce efficiency. The permitting process involves multiple governmental levels (district, provincial, and national), creating lengthy licensing processes that discourage lawful operations.

The business plan has been developed to address multiple integrated activities that will enhance biodiversity conservation whilst improving community livelihoods:

Reserve Infrastructure Expansion:

The project aims to expand the reserve from its current 11,000 hectares to reach 30,000 hectares by combining two 11,000-hectare parcels and negotiating with the government for an additional 8,000 hectares. This expansion will create a protected area that enhances ecological connectivity and conservation impact.  

Sustainable Wildlife Utilisation:

Currently, hunting operations provide approximately 85% of revenue. The business model includes value-adding components such as taxidermy, abattoir facilities, tannery operations, and meat processing to maximise economic returns from sustainable wildlife utilisation. 

Diversified Wildlife Economy:

The plan includes transitioning from primarily hunting-based revenue to a diversified model incorporating:

• Commercial and recreational hunting with trained community members as trackers and skinners
• Problem animal management (stray animals and damage-causing animal control)
• Sustainable harvesting and processing of bush-encroached vegetation
• Accommodation and catering services for tourists and hunters
• Ecotourism activities, including game viewing, guided walks, and horseback safaris
• Introduction and breeding of rare and valuable species

Conservation Training Academy:

The establishment of the Balepye Academy will provide community members with skills development in wildlife management, conservation practices, and tourism services. This will create pathways to meaningful employment whilst building capacity for biodiversity management.

Community Ownership and Participation:

The business structure ensures community ownership through the Balepye Community Property Association, with a clear path to increased equity participation as the enterprise develops. The community holds 35% ownership with a pathway to 50%, ensuring meaningful participation in decision-making and benefit sharing.

Carbon Credit Exploration:

The reserve is investigating opportunities in carbon credit markets, though recent changes in international policy have complicated this. The business remains open to carbon markets but currently focuses on more established revenue streams.

The project's conservation priorities are aligned with the Mopani District Bioregional Plan, which is based on the Limpopo Conservation Plan V2/2013. Key priorities include:

Anti-poaching initiatives:

Establishing and equipping a well-trained anti-poaching unit to combat wildlife crime, particularly addressing the commercial bushmeat trade that threatens wildlife populations. 

Habitat management:

Implementing bush clearing and vegetation management programmes with assistance from the Balepye community to maintain habitat quality and ecosystem functionality whilst creating employment opportunities.

Conservation skills development:

The Balepye Academy will equip community members with the motivation and skills to become active biodiversity conservation partners. The academy will deliver comprehensive wildlife management programmes that benefit learners from the community and keep them updated with best conservation practices and wildlife economic models.

Rhino conservation leadership:

The reserve has historically focused on rhino conservation as a flagship initiative that could unlock socio-economic development. While current activities have diversified, rhino protection remains a priority that the reserve has been propagating for the past 10- 15 years.

Biodiversity conservation:

Protecting the 24 vegetation types found within the Balepye Community Ownership area (outside of Kruger National Park) that are part of the 25 vegetation types identified in the Mopani district.

Ecosystem services protection:

Maintaining the integrity of natural systems that provide essential services such as water purification, carbon sequestration, and pollination. 

Climate change adaptation:

Building community understanding of climate change impacts and implementing adaptive management strategies to enhance ecosystem resilience.

Indigenous species conservation:

Protecting both indigenous and mixed species through scientific management approaches, focusing on species of conservation concern.

The project is expected to deliver significant outcomes across environmental, economic, and social dimensions:

Conservation Outcomes:

• Protection and expansion of biodiversity-rich areas in the Mopani District
• Reduced poaching and illegal wildlife trade through effective anti-poaching measures
• Improved habitat quality through scientific management practices
• Sustainable population management of wildlife species, including rare and threatened taxa
• Enhanced ecological connectivity through reserve expansion and corridor creation

Economic Development:

• Diversified revenue streams, reducing dependency on hunting alone 
• Value addition to wildlife products through processing facilities
• Development of sustainable ecotourism enterprises
• Creation of wildlife-based businesses owned and operated by community members
• Improved marketability of the reserve as a conservation and tourism destination

Training and Skills Development:

• Establishment of the Balepye Academy, offering theoretical and practical skills development
• Employment of farm managers and assistant farm managers from the community funded by the Community Property Association
• Appointment of lodge managers and assistant staff members from the community to oversee hospitality operations
• Capacity building for conservation practitioners serving Limpopo-based conservation institutions and parks

Job Creation:

• Direct employment in reserve management, anti-poaching, wildlife husbandry, and tourism operations
• Continuation of the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) allocation of 15 environmental monitors
• Employment of 2 farm managers and 2 assistant farm managers from the community
• Creation of 3 lodge manager positions with supporting staff members
• Potential to employ 100 people at full operational capacity
• Indirect employment through affiliated services and suppliers
• Regular provision of meat and maise meal to crèches in the Greater Tzaneen and Greater Ba-Phalaborwa areas
• Support for maintenance at the Gravelotte School
• Improved food security through sustainable protein sources
• Enhanced community pride and cultural identity through connection to ancestral lands
• Participation in decision-making regarding natural resource management

The project faces several significant challenges that require strategic responses:

Infrastructure development:

Limited infrastructure, including inadequate fencing, accommodation, and processing facilities, constrains operational effectiveness and revenue generation potential. The reserve needs approximately R400,000 to reach maximum operational capacity. 

Skills development needs:

There is a significant gap in community awareness and understanding of biodiversity conservation priorities, including ecosystem protection, indigenous species conservation, and sustainable resource use.

Climate change adaptation:

Building community understanding of climate change impacts and appropriate adaptation strategies presents an ongoing challenge that requires targeted education and awareness programmes.

Regulatory and legal barriers:

Complex permitting systems with centralised decision-making create bureaucratic hurdles that delay operations and reduce efficiency. The permitting process involves multiple governmental levels (district, provincial, and national), creating a lengthy and bureaucratic licensing process that discourages lawful operations. Permits for species like rhino and elephant are managed at the national level, while others require provincial or district submissions, creating a complex system that impacts operational efficiency.

Revenue diversification:

The current business model relies heavily on hunting (85% of revenue), which faces market limitations and increasing social opposition, necessitating diversification into ecotourism and other wildlife economy activities. 

Environmental and ecological barriers:

Ongoing anti-poaching challenges and habitat loss threaten wildlife populations and ecosystem integrity, requiring significant investment in protection and restoration.

Social and cultural barriers:

Integration of traditional knowledge with contemporary conservation practices presents challenges, as does public opposition to certain activities such as hunting. Some community members may view land use differently from conservation objectives.

Community expectations:

Balancing community expectations for immediate benefits with the need for sustainable, long-term revenue generation requires careful management of social dynamics and clear communication.

Financial constraints:

The reserve requires significant capital investment to reach optimal operational capacity, presenting funding challenges given the scale of the property.

Political and funding volatility:

Changes in international funding priorities, such as recent shifts in US policy regarding green energy funding, have affected potential investment streams, necessitating a more diversified approach to funding. 

The project is located in a biodiversity-rich area of significant conservation importance:

Underlying biodiversity significance:

The Mopani District Bioregional Plan, in which the Balepye Community and land are situated, is based on the Critical Biodiversity Areas developed in the Limpopo Conservation Plan v2 (LCPv2), the current systematic conservation plan for the province undertaken by the Limpopo Department of Economic Development, Environment and Tourism (LEDET). 

Irreplaceable conservation value:

The Mopani area contains ecosystems required to meet provincial biodiversity targets. Most of these areas in the Mopani District can be considered irreplaceable from a conservation perspective.

Vegetation diversity:

The Mopani district, inclusive of the Kruger National Park, contains 25 different vegetation types. Of these, 24 vegetation types occur outside the Kruger National Park within the Balepye Community Ownership area, representing exceptional biodiversity value.

Strategic location:

The reserve is located near the northern Kruger National Park, making it an important buffer zone and wildlife corridor that complements formal protected area networks.

Wildlife abundance:

The area supports abundant wildlife populations and diverse bird species, contributing to both conservation value and tourism potential. Current wildlife includes various plains game species and elephants (though elephant numbers require management due to their ecological impact through vegetation destruction). The reserve is also working to introduce buffalo, as it is located in a red-line area that requires special management approaches.

The project directly contributes to protected area expansion through several mechanisms:

Reserve consolidation and expansion:

The project aims to combine two 11,000-hectare parcels to create a 22,000-hectare protected area, with negotiations underway to incorporate an additional 8,000 hectares to ultimately create a 30,000-hectare conservation landscape.

Protected area network integration:

The project is exploring collaboration with the nearby Hans Merensky Nature Reserve through discussions with LEDET, which would enhance ecological connectivity and create a larger interconnected protected area network.

Formal protection status:

Establishing the Greater Balepye Nature Reserve provides formal protection status to lands that might otherwise be vulnerable to conversion to less biodiversity-friendly land uses.

Wildlife corridors:

The reserve's location near Kruger National Park contributes to regional conservation efforts by maintaining wildlife corridors and buffer zones that enhance the ecological integrity of the broader landscape. 

The project addresses several interconnected challenges:

1. Lack of certified game meat processing facilities that meet export standards and food safety requirements
2. Limited economic opportunities in rural areas lead to poverty and unemployment
3. Pressures on wildlife habitats and biodiversity from unsustainable land use practices
4. Limited participation of black entrepreneurs in the wildlife economy value chain
5. Inconsistent supply of high-quality game meat products to premium markets
6. Poaching threats to wildlife populations due to limited economic incentives for conservation

Mputsu Farming and Tourism Investment has developed an integrated business model that combines wildlife conservation with sustainable economic utilisation through multiple complementary activities:

• Game farming and wildlife breeding programmes on the 1,200-hectare Koedoesfontein property, with plans to expand to 4,200 hectares through the acquisition of Schoonkloof;
• Sustainable hunting operations that generate revenue whilst maintaining ecological balance;
• Tourism accommodation facilities, with plans for a new 12-room mountain lodge development;
• Game meat processing through an abattoir facility that creates value-added products for retail markets;
• Anti-poaching services that protect wildlife assets and contribute to regional security.

This integrated approach creates multiple revenue streams while ensuring the property's long-term ecological sustainability. The business model demonstrates how black entrepreneurs can successfully participate in and transform the wildlife economy sector.

Mputsu Farming and Tourism Investment has created a comprehensive solution through a vertically integrated wildlife economy business with four complementary components:

Game Farming and Conservation:

company manages wildlife populations through scientific ecological studies and breeding programmes, including participation in the SANParks Wildlife Donation Programme. The Farm hosts diverse species, including recently acquired White Rhinoceros, Buffalo, Eland, Red Hartebeest, and Black Wildebeest.

State-of-the-Art Abattoir:

Establish a modern game meat processing facility in the Bodirelo Industrial Park within the Buchanala Special Economic Zone, designed to meet the highest hygiene and regulatory standards for domestic and export markets.

Premium Market Access:

The company has secured offtake agreements with Woolworths and other major retailers, providing a solid foundation for consistent revenue generation.

Luxury Ecotourism:

Development of a 12-room contemporary mountain lodge to provide exclusive nature experiences while diversifying revenue streams and enhancing the financial sustainability of conservation efforts.

1. Expanding protected wildlife habitat through acquisition and conservation management of private land
2. Wildlife population management based on scientific ecological studies that balance species needs with vegetation availability
3. Protection of endangered species, including White Rhinoceros and rare antelope
4. Conservation of Indigenous vegetation, particularly endangered tree species, including Marula trees
5. Water resource protection, including regular cleanup operations for the Kolonist River that runs through the property
6. Anti-poaching operations that extend beyond the Farm's boundaries to support regional conservation efforts
7. Providing helicopter support for broader anti-poaching initiatives in collaboration with government reserves

Economic Development:

• Establishment of a viable wildlife economy enterprise integrating conservation, tourism, and sustainable utilisation
• Creation of 25 current jobs, increasing to approximately 54 lodge staff and 8 permanent farm staff positions
• Development of a wildlife economy hub in the North West Province that stimulates related businesses
• Value addition to game products through certified processing, increasing market value and export potential

Job Creation:

• 25 current staff (18 from local communities)
• Additional jobs through lodge expansion (targeting 90% local employment, 95% black South African employment, and 60% female employment)
• Indirect employment through the supply chain, including logistics, packaging, and maintenance services
• Skills development in wildlife management, hospitality, meat processing, and anti-poaching operations

Conservation:

• Protection and expansion of 1,200 hectares of wildlife habitat, with plans to increase to 4,200 hectares
• Breeding programmes for various wildlife species, including threatened and endangered species
• Enhanced anti-poaching capabilities, including helicopter support extending to neighbouring conservation areas
• Sustainable wildlife utilisation demonstrates the economic value of intact ecosystems

Social Impact:

• Economic empowerment of surrounding communities through employment and entrepreneurship opportunities
• Skills transfer and capacity building, particularly for women and youth
• Enhanced food security through sustainable protein production
• Conservation education and awareness in nine surrounding villages
• Black economic empowerment in a traditionally white-dominated sector
• Preservation of cultural heritage and Indigenous knowledge systems

The project faces several challenges that require strategic intervention:

Environmental challenges:

Extreme weather events, including floods that damage infrastructure and fencing

Regulatory hurdles:

Delays in permit issuance affecting hunting operations and seasonal revenue generation

Market constraints:

Competition from established players in game meat processing and luxury tourism

Community engagement:

Limited uptake of opportunities by local communities despite outreach efforts

Skills availability:

Challenges in recruiting and retaining qualified staff in rural locations

Infrastructure limitations: 

Reliable water and electricity supply in a remote location

Financial constraints:

Access to growth capital for expanding operations and implementing new initiatives

Security concerns:

Poaching threats to valuable species, particularly rhinoceros, require significant security investment

The funding support required:

The project is located in the biodiversity-rich North West Province of South Africa, strategically positioned adjacent to the internationally acclaimed Madikwe Game Reserve. The property falls within an important wildlife corridor and includes habitat for numerous species of conservation concern. The area hosts diverse vegetation types and is part of the broader savanna biome that supports significant biodiversity. The landscape features a variety of habitats, including woodlands, grasslands, and riparian zones along the Kolonist River, contributing to high species diversity and ecological resilience.

The project directly contributes to the expansion of protected areas through:

1. Secure conservation management of the existing 1,200-hectare Koedoesfontein property
2. Ongoing negotiations to incorporate an additional 3,000-hectare Schoonkloof property, which would increase the protected area to 4,200 hectares
3. Wildlife management practices that enhance habitat quality and species diversity
4. Protection of water resources, including the Kolonist River that flows through the property
5. Creation of wildlife corridors that connect with neighbouring conservation areas

3600 Hectares

Gauteng

Core Operations

• Other - Environmental education and recreation

Activities

• Volunteering of Alien invasive plant removal/5 reserve sector projects
• Environmental education programmes > 300 learners per annum
• Cycling and walking around heritage and natural attractions - 500 per annum
• Monthly awareness events (Walks & Talks) 2 
• Monitoring of Eco-crime - prevention volunteers in poaching, snaring, stripping of indigenous resources - regular snare walks, security company co-operation

Core operations

• Land/veld management 
• Wetland management 
• Rehabilitation/restoration 
• Invasive alien plant clearing and harvesting
• Other - Environmental projects by voluntary teams

Activities

• Alien Invasive plant removal projects, infestation monitoring, staff training (20/yr)
• Wetland rehabilitation (outside services - Working for Wetlands)
• Fire management, fire protection (fire breaks)  - CRR Fire Protection Association
• Environmental Crime (prevention, awareness, support of contracted security company)

The Crocodile River Reserve (CRR) has been proclaimed as a Protected Area according to the National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act of 2004.  By conserving biodiversity, CRR not only ensures that surroundings are richer and more diverse, but also secures the resources that will continue to provide improvements in the quality of human life. The Reserve boasts a variety of eco-systems and habitats within which there are many special species, some of them threatened and vulnerable. The Crocodile River Reserve’s programmes offer schools, universities and environmental interest groups the opportunity to learn about and experience biodiversity. Programmes envisioned by the Reserve takes into consideration that being on an urban edge there are a myriad of opportunities in identifying and working with established community leaders and organised groups in large areas where the population is diverse and highly fragmented.

The Reserve is looking to expand its impact on the natural and human environment, by introducing better security and access control, expanding through acquisition of adjacent land, SMME development, introduction of services to prevent environmental crimes, installation of signage to increase visitor awareness and development of a comprehensive biodiversity database.

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