Restorative work underway at Ilanda Wilds, Amanzimtoti
A new project is underway at Ilanda Wilds, Amanzimtoti, spearheaded by NPO Tidy Towns Amanzimtoti AND supported by the community at large.
THE community at large demonstrated what can be achieved through collaboration during Tidy Towns Amanzimtoti’s Ilanda Wilds clean-up initiative on September 12.
Also read: Local beach tackled on International Coastal Clean-Up Day
Spearheaded by the NPO, the clean-up received support from numerous businesses and community members across Amanzimtoti.
Romy Wenzel, of Tidy Towns Amanzimtoti, explained that it is an ongoing project, with further work planned for beyond the initial clean-up campaign, with the main objective being to create awareness for Ilanda Wilds, highlighting the reserve’s potential for sports, nature trails and to celebrate its history. Today (September 23), further cleaning up is being done in the area.
“According to local history, King Shaka named Amanzimtoti after tasting the area’s water while resting with his troops in the 1800s. His words, “Kanti Amanzi Mntoti,” are understood to mean “the place of sweet waters”.
The April 2022 floods severely affected the reserve, depositing large quantities of sand around the King Shaka rock site. Through continued collaboration with the eThekwini Parks and Roads Department, substantial amounts of sand have been removed. Trees, bushes and overgrown vegetation have also been trimmed, helping to restore the area,” said Wenzel.
The rock site was beautified as part of the project, with indigenous plants being planted around the site. A new plaque will also be installed thanks to a generous donation from the Amanzimtoti Cycling Club.
The initiative received valuable support from Seabreeze Hardware, Budget Gardens, Amanzimtoti High School, ATKV Natalia, Illovo Nursery, Gary’s Horses, ARC Towing, Sopro Branding and Signs, Jaref’s Paint, local artist Christine Andrews, BB Bread, Sapphire Coast Tourism, Clean Surf Project, Amanzimtoti Conservancy and eThekwini Municipality.
Wenzel extended special thanks to ET Security and CCPO for monitoring the project and helping to maintain safety and security during the operations.
Further support is needed to extend and restore the trails to their former glory, reconnecting both sides of the river for cyclists, cross-country runners and nature walkers to enjoy.
What needs to be done?
- Trail and directional signage
- Recycled plastic planks to rebuild stream and river crossings
- Labour to clear and reopen overgrown pathways
- Solar-powered CCTV to provide year-round security
- Funding to support the ongoing maintenance of the site
To get involved, participate or sponsor the project, contact Romy Wenzel on 083 733 6468 or email romywenzel@gmail.com.
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