Conservation organisation helps deliver drinking water to thirsty KZN communities

Communities surrounding Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park (HiP), Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife’s flagship Big 5 game reserve in KZN, no longer have to share drinking water with their livestock.

This after the conservation entity brought relief to seven communities, including Mnyamane, Dikidiki, Finland and Nyongwana, through its water project.

Before this initiative, residents were forced to share unsafe, undrinkable water sources with livestock; a situation that worsened during dry seasons when the rivers and other natural water sources would dry up.

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The project, which was launched several years ago, was funded through co-management funding at an estimated R100 000.

This transformative project now serves an estimated 64 homesteads, significantly improving health, sanitation and quality of life in the region.

“We would like to extend our deepest gratitude for your unwavering co-operation and the incredible support you have provided to our community. Your efforts have made us feel seen, valued, and treated with the dignity we deserve, like ordinary people living fulfilling lives,” said one community member, Miss SG Sithole.

Talking on behalf of Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, Amos Tembe, who is the park manager of HiP, said, ” We manage the game reserves on behalf of the communities, and are committed to giving back wherever possible to improve their quality of life.

“When the communities surrounding the reserves thrive, human-wildlife conflict naturally decreases.”

“You have lifted an immense burden from our shoulders, one we had long carried without knowing how to overcome it.

“Thanks to you, many in our community are now recognising the profound benefits of being adjacent to HiP.

“Your presence in our lives has been transformative, and for that we are truly grateful,” concluded Mr DD Mabizela, a committee member, during the handover ceremony.

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