News & Media
Inhlanyelo Hub explores sustainable tourism initiatives in Marico Biosphere Reserve
The Inhlanyelo Hub team, consisting of Dr Tapiwa Muzata (Project Manager), Prof Annemarie Davis (Project Leader), Neliswa Songca (Administrator) and Dr Elricke Botha (Researcher), recently visited the Marico Biosphere Reserve in Groot Marico, North West Province. The visit intended to engage with key stakeholders and lay the groundwork for their sustainable development project.
From left: Oestern Sebako, Dr Tapiwa Muzata, Daan van der Merwe, Juliet Mokoka, Dr Elricke Botha, Beatrice van der Merwe and Prof Annemarie Davis.
Project overview
Expanding on an existing engaged scholarship project spearheaded by Botha from the Department of Applied Management at Unisa, Inhlanyelo Hub partnered with the Marico Biosphere Reserve Management Authority to initiate a multi-year endeavour. The initiative seeks to empower local entrepreneurs, increase economic participation and advocate for sustainable tourism practices within the Marico Biosphere Reserve. While initially approached through the lens of tourism within the existing engaged scholarship project, Inhlanyelo Hub's involvement transcends the scope of tourism operators. The project will unfold over three distinct phases from 2024 to 2026. It commences with Ide8tion workshops designed to cultivate entrepreneurship within the Marico community, followed by subsequent phases focusing on business mentoring, coaching and the establishment of new ventures. These endeavours aim to foster economic growth while preserving the region's rich local heritage.
During their visit, the Inhlanyelo Hub team participated in various activities, including a 2km hike along the Marico River with the CEO of the Marico Biosphere Reserve Management Authority and youth forum leader Kagiso Mogapi. The immersive experience provided insights into the river ecosystem and ongoing community efforts, including removing invasive fish species and operating a bottling plant for water from the Marico River.
Strategic priorities and plans
Inhlanyelo Hub's commitment to engaged scholarship aligns with the National Development Plan's emphasis on collaborative problem solving. The project aims to address complex challenges and drive sustainable development by leveraging expertise and community connections. The project is not merely an employment or funding scheme, but seeks to empower communities to become economically active and potentially create employment through their activities. Through Ide8tion workshops and business coaching, the aim is to facilitate economic activity and foster inclusive growth.
Davis emphasised the significance of this collaboration in fostering entrepreneurship and economic empowerment. The partnership between Inhlanyelo Hub and the Marico Biosphere Reserve Management Authority is expected to yield lasting community benefits, contributing to economic development and heritage preservation. The initiative underscores Inhlanyelo Hub's dedication to sustainable community engagement and entrepreneurship, laying the groundwork for a lasting positive impact.
* Submitted by Inhlanyelo Hub
Publish date: 2024-04-17 00:00:00.0
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