Written by Timbavati Foundation.

A Historic Celebration of Leadership and Conservation at the Timbavati Nature Reserve

On December 10th and 11th, 2024, the Timbavati Foundation, in partnership with its Greater Kruger stakeholders and landscape collaborators, hosted an unforgettable year-end gathering. The event, held at the historic Graeme Naylor Museum within the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, brought together the leadership of two tribal authorities: the Mnisi Tribal Authority of the Manyeleti Circuit and the Selhare Tribal Authority of the Greenvalley Circuit. Over two extraordinary days, this landmark celebration honoured the leaders’ unwavering commitment to their communities while strengthening collaboration between local authorities and conservation & community stakeholders.

A Unique and Immersive Experience

Each day welcomed over 60 representatives from the respective tribal authorities and non-profit organisations, offering them a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The event began with exhilarating game drives, generously supported by the Timbavati reserve’s lodges, such as Umlani Bush Camp, Kings Camp, Rockfig, Tanda Tula, Bateleur Safari and Simbavati Lodges, allowing the leaders to immerse themselves in the beauty of the protected wildlife areas neighbouring their communities. For some, this was their first encounter with the reserve’s world-class facilities and the majestic wildlife it safeguards.

One tribal leader expressed heartfelt gratitude, saying, “This experience has been an eye-opener. We now better understand the importance of working hand-in-hand with conservationists to create opportunities for our communities while protecting the wildlife that brings value to our region.”

Building Bridges Between Conservation and Community

At the focus point of the gathering were open and dynamic discussion sessions, where tribal leaders and conservation stakeholders engaged in meaningful dialogue. These sessions explored the challenges and opportunities in protecting wildlife areas while driving development within surrounding communities.

Community Conservation experts shared insights into the vital role that natural ecosystems play in sustaining the environment, fostering eco-tourism, and promoting economic growth. Tribal leaders were encouraged to envision how conservation initiatives could align with their communities’ socio-economic goals, emphasizing their pivotal role in bridging the gap between conservation efforts and community needs.

Coffee breaks and informal conversations added a personal touch, fostering relationship-building in a relaxed and collaborative atmosphere. Further shared over a delicious lunch prepared by the Timbavati Foundation with support of resources thanks to collaborating partners.

A Shared Commitment to a Sustainable Future

The event concluded with renewed hope and commitment from all parties. The leaders expressed their appreciation for the experience and shared their excitement for future collaborations. The Timbavati Foundation’s Community Liaison, Karen Monareng, summed it up beautifully:

“This event wasn’t just about unwinding after a long year; it was about connecting with the leaders, showing them the value of the natural resources in their backyard, and reinforcing that conservation isn’t just about protecting wildlife—it’s about creating opportunities for the communities themselves.”

This gathering marks a significant step forward in fostering partnerships that ensure conservation benefits are felt across the region. As the Timbavati Foundation and its Greater Kruger Partners look ahead, they remain dedicated to preserving the natural beauty of their landscape while empowering local communities to thrive and build resilience.

Together, they are shaping a future where conservation and community development go hand in hand, inspiring generations to protect and cherish the region’s priceless natural heritage.

A big thank you to these community organizations who assisted in making this event a success:

Conservation South Africa, Endangered Wildlife Trust, Global Conservation Corps, Greater Kruger Environmental Protection Foundation (GKEPF), Kruger to Canyons Biosphere, Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency, Nourish NPO, Sabi Sand Nature Reserve, Sabi Sand Pfunanani Trust, Thornybush Community, Timbavati Nature Reserve, Wild Impact