Here at Babanango Game Reserve, we are excited to announce the appointment of Thina Nyathi as the Foundation Manager for the African Habitat Conservancy Foundation (AHCF), a pivotal role that aligns with our commitment to conservation and community upliftment at Babanango Game Reserve in KZN. With over 13 years of experience in stakeholder engagement, business development, and resource mobilisation, Thina brings a wealth of expertise that will enhance our ongoing efforts in the region.
A Strategic Vision for Babanango Game Reserve in KZN
Thina’s appointment comes at a crucial time for the AHCF as we continue to expand our impact both within and beyond the borders of the Babanango Game Reserve. Her role involves building relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders, including government entities, corporate partners, and community organisations, to foster collaboration and drive sustainable development. Thina’s focus on community development is particularly important for the Emcakwini Community, whose partnership has been instrumental in the establishment and growth of the game reserve.
The AHCF is deeply committed to improving the lives of those in the communities surrounding the reserve. The Foundation is focused on enhancing livelihoods through various social support projects. These include the installation of boreholes, which have provided clean water to over 275 households, and the development of 79 community gardens, which serve as both a source of food and income. By addressing these fundamental needs, the AHCF ensures that the benefits of the game reserve extend far beyond its borders, contributing to the long-term sustainability of the community.
Driving Sustainable Conservation and Economic Growth
The integration of community development with conservation efforts is a cornerstone of the AHCF’s approach. Babanango Game Reserve is a prime example of this strategy in action. Spanning 22,000 hectares of protected wilderness, the reserve is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including several species that are being reintroduced as part of a broader conservation initiative. The reserve’s success is not only a win for wildlife but also for the local economy, as it draws tourists and creates jobs in the region.
Thina’s role in fostering entrepreneurship within the community is also critical to this strategy. By supporting the establishment of small, medium, and micro-enterprises (SMMEs), the AHCF is helping to create a more resilient local economy that can thrive alongside the conservation efforts. This holistic approach ensures that the reserve is not just a haven for wildlife but also a source of empowerment and opportunity for the people who live in its vicinity.
Looking Ahead
As we look to the future, the African Habitat Conservancy Foundation, under Thina Nyathi’s leadership, will continue to champion the dual goals of conservation and community development. We are excited about the potential to make an even greater impact in the years to come, and we invite you to join us in this mission.
For more information on how you can get involved or to learn more about our work at Babanango Game Reserve, please contact Thina Nyathi at thina.nyathi@babanango.com. Together, we can build a sustainable future where both nature and communities thrive.
