“Tourism is now the world’s largest economic sector and, in South Africa, accounts for one in every eight jobs. The sector’s growth has placed a heavy burden on local economies, cultures and environments, which calls for responsible management. Responsible tourism, which is underpinned by sound environmental, social and economic principles, offers a way to minimize ecological impact, benefit local communities and reduce poverty. It is undoubtedly the way of the future.” – taken from an excerpt by Mohammed Valli Moosa, Minister of Environmental Affairs and Tourism, South Africa.
As individuals, we often become emotionally linked to animals and forget about the entire eco-system within which we operate. Erosion control, the removal of fixed structures, correct placement of water points, rehabilitation of overgrazed areas, the stocking rate applicable to the carrying capacity and the scaling down of roads are all vitally important in ensuring our country’s environmental sustainability.
Ka’Ingo Private Reserve & Spa forms part of the Waterberg Biosphere in South Africa’s Limpopo Province. At the time of its acquisition by Zorgvliet Portfolio on 1 June 2002, the now 5-star graded Ka’Ingo was in close-to-dilapidated condition. In order to reverse the extensive damage done to its natural heritage, the Reserve is implementing various proven and effective conservation management techniques that include the introduction of fire to decrease all the dead material and to clear the rapidly encroaching veld. Furthermore, internal environmental impact assessments are conducted by expert ecologists before any infrastructure is built at Ka’Ingo to determine the appropriateness of development on the Reserve and to identify any ecological problems before they occur. These combined efforts ensure the reinstatement of Ka’Ingo to its former glory and will accordingly position the Reserve as a unique brand of “untouched bushveld” (“grass farm”).
