RSG en SATSA vs Beach Driving

It is sad that people hide behind conservation when it comes to Beach Driving. This is the most profitable source of tourism in South Africa. It is more productive and has a higher hield than Sugar Cane farming. It distributes funds more evenly than any BEE enterprise  yet to be set up.

The beach area at St. Lucia is void of sea live due to Sugar Cane Farming in and around iMfolozi flood area. To say that Sea Turtles are effected by Beach Driving is a lie. During the hight of beach driving north of Cape Vidal, this area was the only place in the world with an increase in turtle nesting sites. Sea Turtles nest are above the high water mark and 4x4 vehicles drive in the inter tidal zone.

The only life in this zone is bulia  snails and they survive in the glassy zone. This has no relevance to beach driving.  The inter-tidal zone is the area above the low water mark and below the high water mark. The sand displacement in this area is beyond comprehension.

Any body claiming that the 3000 km coast line of South Africa can not be utilized in some places for beach driving is blatant ignorant or promoting their own agenda like mining or coastal developments. This is not constitutional and a misuse, no an abuse of power and knowledge.


by Petrus Viviers
0835847473

Telkom ADSL vs www.forafrica.co.za

 

For almost four months this problem was presisting and people could not see websites at www.forafrica.co.za, www.elephantcoast.co.za, www.isimangaliso.co.za and various others. We added many free services to these domains. Please feel free to use these services and promote your area. Blogs for Clubs will be setup for free.

 

 

 

[Fwd: FW: Tours and a dead dolphin]

  

---

From: Advantage Tours & Charters [mailto:advantage@zululink.co.za]
Sent: 22 November 2008 09:26 AM
To: 'Advantage Tours & Charters'
Subject: Tours and a dead dolphin

 

Hi again

 

Needed to ask a favour – you don’t always sit in front of your computers to read our updates and about the departure times – if you want an sms now and again about additional unscheduled tours going out – please send me your cell phone number to list  - it’s then quicker to read an sms than an e-mail –

 

If you don’t want sms’s you obviously don’t have to respond to this e-mail –

 

We’re off to First Rocks to go take DNA samples and photographs of a dead dolphin that washed up on the beach – sad!

 

We’ve got the most awesome funniest home video footage of one of the tractors trying to push the deepsea fishing boats into the ocean, and then instead of reversing the tractor went forward straight into the surf, having the ‘driver’ behind the wheel totally covered by a couple of waves before our staff was able to come to the rescue – he – he – some funny stuff hap’ning on the beach early mornings.....

 

Enjoy the rest of the weekend –

 

Kindest Regards

Riëtte

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Blogging For Money

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Water Levels stabelising

With recent rains the water levels in the iMfolozi River has risen dramatically. This means that water restrictions will be lifted in the near future. Although with more rain falling in the catchments areas of the River, it could mean that the iMfolozi River will break trough into the ocean again. The current hydraulic pressure will be lost in such a scenario and the inflow of water into the Estuary from the River will seize.

 

All back pressure to keep water in the River upstream will be lost and once again all the potential tap water will run into the sea again. Good or bad this is the natural cycle and humans have to adapt around this conditions. The down side of this is restriction on development and this restric's the flow of five star tourism. With the increase of Five Star tourism more development is needed an a greater pressure is added to the environment and the life span of the planet.

 

Sometimes mans footprint on earth is just to deep for nature to survive.

12 Chinese and 22 Japanese buyers bid for Ivory

MEDIA RELEASE


ISSUED ON 06 NOVEMBER 2008


SOUTH AFRICAN IVORY STOCKPILE AUCTIONED


South Africa today (06 November) auctioned approximately 47 metric tons
of stockpiled ivory. The sale, approved by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora
(CITES), took place in Pretoria.

12 Chinese and 22 Japanese buyers bid for the South African stockpile.
The sale saw buyers bidding off brochures depicting the 63 lots of ivory
that the stockpile had been divided into. Buyers visited the stockpile
in Kruger National Park on Wednesday, 05 November during a private
viewing session.

During his opening statement Dr David Mabunda, Chief Executive of South
African National Parks (SANParks), said: "We fully appreciate and
embrace our responsibility to ensure that we stamp down on poaching of
any kind and so we intend to use considerable amounts of the funds we
raise today towards increasing our anti-poaching capacity"

The sale of the South African stockpile fetched approximately 6, 7
million USD. The average price for the 63 lots on auction was 142 USD
per kilogram.   

CITES Secretary General, Willem W Wijnstekers attended the auction as
the CITES observer.  

Wijnstekers said that a total of 101 tons of ivory was auctioned in the
four countries and generated total revenue of approximately 15 million
USD.

For previous press releases access the links below

http://www.environment.gov.za/HotIssues/2008/Ivorysale/ivory.html


http://www.sanparks.org <http://www.sanparks.org/>   


For media queries contact

wanda mkutshulwa (SANParks) on 082 908 2692 or

Roopa Singh (DEAT) on 082 225 3076

Research EFFORT on smoothhound SHARKS

 

DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL AFFAIRS AND TOURISM

MEDIA STATEMENT

6 November 2008

For immediate release

RECREATIONAL Anglers and MARINE SCIENTISTS cooperate in research EFFORT on smoothhound SHARKS

The Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism 's marine and coastal management branch and the West Coast Shore Angling Association are cooperating in a joint venture on Saturday 8 November 2008 to try to tag as many smoothhound sharks as possible as part of research into the population of smooth hound sharks in the Langebaan Lagoon system.

The joint venture which is dubbed the Langebaan Lagoon Smoothound Shark Derby 2008 is a tag and release tournament aimed at promoting collaborative opportunities between marine scientists and fishers to strengthen the sustainable management of marine resources. It will further assist with the existing research on the smoothhound shark population in Langebaan Lagoon.

Recent studies have shown that the main angling target species smoothhound shark, white stumpnose and elf are resident in the lagoon. The tag and recapture experiment will help to identify the stock size of the population of these species within the Langebaan –Saldanha bay area and the results will inform the sustainable management of these species.

Smoothhound sharks (Mustelus mustelus) are commonly caught off Southern African waters by commercial trawlers, long-lining operations, line-fishing boats, shore based recreational fishermen. Smoothhound sharks are one of the most frequently caught species. They are abundant in bays with soft substrate such as Langebaan Lagoon, where they feed on benthic invertebrates.

Sharks are slow growing animals, mature late and produce small numbers of offspring. These life-history traits make them extremely vulnerable to over-exploitation.

The tournament will be also be used to introduce the Green Marine Angling program, an initiative of the South African Shark Conservancy (SASC), in collaboration with the Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism . This program is geared towards responsible angling where a code of handling is introduced to minimize the effects of poor handling practices when releasing fish.

This tournament does not only represent an exciting angling experience but also an opportunity a member of the South African Shore Angling Association,for anglers to actively participate in research on a locally important species aimed to assure the sustainable management of the smoothhound shark, based on sound scientific knowledge.

Only anglers who are registered members of the South African Shore Angling Association (SASAA) will be accepted to fish in this tournament. A maximum of 100 anglers will be allowed to participate. The West Coast Shore Angling Association is a member of the SAAA.

The Derby is taking place from 5:00 when registration starts at the Langebaan Yacht Club. Angling will be from 06:00 until 13:00.

Marine scientists from the department will participate and provide assistance with the tagging.

 

Contact: Carol Moses 0828293917 or cmoses@deat.gov.za

Issued by the Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism on 6 November 2008

www.deat.gov.za

Sale of Ivory

October 27, 2008;

Media Release

24 October 2008

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Proceeds of ivory sale to contribute towards elephant research, conservation and community development

South Africa is soon to be conducting its sale of approximately 51 tons of ivory as approved by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) Standing Committee. The stockpile consists of ivory that was verified by the CITES Secretariat as being of legal origin and emanates from South African National Parks (SANParks), Mpumalanga Parks and Tourism Agency, North West Parks and Tourism Board and KZN Wildlife.

China and Japan have been accredited by CITES for the purchase of the approved ivory stockpile in South Africa, Botswana, Namibia and Zimbabwe.

The sale to CITES accredited buyers, China and Japan will take the form of an auction

There is no prior indication of what price this ivory will be sold for.

As specified by CITES, the proceeds from this sale of the approved ivory must be used for elephant conservation programmes and community development, especially those communities in and around the area of elephant habitation.

South Africa will be using the proceeds of the sale of this ivory within the specific guidelines laid down by CITES and will filter it as follows:

1. A major portion of the money will be earmarked for elephant related research, conservation, anti poaching measures, monitoring of herds and land expansion.

2. Conservation functions which will include employment of additional game rangers, obtaining more vehicles, erecting elephant proof fences where needed, purchasing of equipment etc.

3. Community development projects, specifically within communities affected by the presence of elephants

"As per the stipulations of the 14th Conference of Parties to CITES held in July last year, the conservation agencies have done extensive planning to ensure that the proceeds of the sale will be used within the specifications. There is no argument that this money will go a long way towards enhancing conservation research, boosting our enforcement capabilities and helping communities who share land with elephants," said Dr. David Mabunda, Chief Executive of SANParks.

The money allocated to the specific programmes and projects within the CITES stipulations will be monitored in accordance with the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) and National Treasury Regulations.

Media enquiries:

wanda mkutshulwa, Head of Communications, (SANParks) Tel: 082 908 2692

Roopa Singh, (DEAT) Tel: 082 225 3076

Rhinos poached in iMfolozi

October 1, 2008;

MEDIA RELEASE No: 2008 - 08  

 RHINOS POACHED IN IMFOLOZI
For immediate release
Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife reports that field rangers on a routine patrol in the Masinda section of the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park came across the carcase of a white rhino in the Makhandendlovu area.
Acting on an established protocol, one field ranger approached the carcase and saw that the horns had been cleanly removed.
The field rangers immediately reported this and the Conservation Manager of Imfolozi, Mr Dave Robertson, duly alerted the local SAPS and other EKZNW staff.
EKZNW staff, accompanied by the SAPS team went out to the site and began the examination of the carcase which appeared to be that of an adult female.
When the group examined the tracks of the animal they found a further two carcases - an adult female and a sub-adult calf about 200 metres away..
A fourth carcase lay about 30 metres beyond this.
The horns of all four animals had been cleanly removed with a sharp instrument indicating that some one with considerable  experience had been at work.
After a thorough examination of the area and a search for any clues, the group left the site under guard to protect the carcases from scavengers.
Postmortems conducted the next day by the EKZN W veterinary surgeon revealed that all four animals had been shot with a heavy calibre rifle some five days previously.
All four animals appeared to been shot at much the same time and all four lay in very rough and  remote terrain covered in very thick bush, a factor that would have masked the sound of the gunshots.
EKZNW staff are working closely with the SAPS on the case and appeal to members of the public who might have any information about this incident to contact the Conservation Manager of Imfolozi Mr Dave Robertson on 035 550 8481,  the Wildlife Investigator for the Zululand region Mr Michael Mfuleka on 083  664 1314, or the Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife hotline 0800 2121 26
All calls will be treated in the strictest confidence.

 

 AJG/ Media Release No: 2008 - 08 

SA to sell Ivory

Media Release

24 October 2008

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Proceeds of ivory sale to contribute towards elephant research, conservation and community development

South Africa is soon to be conducting its sale of approximately 51 tons of ivory as approved by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) Standing Committee. The stockpile consists of ivory that was verified by the CITES Secretariat as being of legal origin and emanates from South African National Parks (SANParks), Mpumalanga Parks and Tourism Agency, North West Parks and Tourism Board and KZN Wildlife.

China and Japan have been accredited by CITES for the purchase of the approved ivory stockpile in South Africa, Botswana, Namibia and Zimbabwe.

The sale to CITES accredited buyers, China and Japan will take the form of an auction

There is no prior indication of what price this ivory will be sold for.

As specified by CITES, the proceeds from this sale of the approved ivory must be used for elephant conservation programmes and community development, especially those communities in and around the area of elephant habitation.

South Africa will be using the proceeds of the sale of this ivory within the specific guidelines laid down by CITES and will filter it as follows:

1. A major portion of the money will be earmarked for elephant related research, conservation, anti poaching measures, monitoring of herds and land expansion.

2. Conservation functions which will include employment of additional game rangers, obtaining more vehicles, erecting elephant proof fences where needed, purchasing of equipment etc.

3. Community development projects, specifically within communities affected by the presence of elephants

"As per the stipulations of the 14^{th Conference of Parties to CITES held in July last year, the conservation agencies have done extensive planning to ensure that the proceeds of the sale will be used within the specifications. There is no argument that this money will go a long way towards enhancing conservation research, boosting our enforcement capabilities and helping communities who share land with elephants," said Dr. David Mabunda, Chief Executive of SANParks.}

The money allocated to the specific programmes and projects within the CITES stipulations will be monitored in accordance with the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) and National Treasury Regulations.

Media enquiries:

wanda mkutshulwa, Head of Communications, (SANParks) Tel: 082 908 2692

Roopa Singh, (DEAT) Tel: 082 225 3076

 

Hippo slaughter

 

September 29, 2008

Zululand OBSERVER

	Hippo slaughter The gruesome scene of hippo remains on the banks of Lake Hlobane as community members cut the remainder of the carcass on Saturday morning Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife District Conservation Manager, Frans Mthembu along with officials Eric Gcabashe, Mandla Mbonambi and Samso Gumede discovered the remains of the hippo after poachers allegedly shot the animal earlier in the week Ronelle Ramsamy THE number of hippos breeding at Lake Hlobane has dropped drastically to approximately six, as poachers continue to hunt the large herbivore to sell meat and feed local communities. Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife officials discovered a hippo carcass on Saturday morning after the animal was reportedly shot by poachers earlier in the week. Despite an unbearable stench, community members braved the inclement weather conditions and made their way through the dense forest to the banks of Lake Hlobane to cut pieces of the hippo meat. The dead animal was discovered with its head decapitated and other remains scattered around the banks of the river. District Conservation Manager, Frans Mthembu told the Zululand Observer that the dead hippo was still floating in the water on Friday night when Ezemvelo Wildlife officials, together with Border Line police, combed the area for suspects. 'We also conducted road blocks to check for those in possession of hippo meat. We had to call off the search on Friday night because of poor visibility and resumed on Saturday. The hippo was killed with a hunting rifle and we are appealing to the magistrates that if these perpetrators are caught, they must dish out the maximum sentence of five years imprisonment. 'I don't think there are more than six hippos now left in this river. People should not be allowed to be in possession of these unlicensed firearms,' said Mthembu.

 

For the birds

 

September 26, 2008

Zululand OBSERVER

	For the birds Zululand bird guide - Michael Blose explains the Zululand birding routes to an interested birder at the British Bird Fair BirdLife SA's stall at the British Bird Fair was usually swamped - a good indicator of the huge number of foreign birders interested in what South Africa offered Tanya Waterworth LOCAL Zululand bird guides got a taste of the international avi-tourism market when they visited two overseas birding fairs. Making his first trip overseas, Zululand Birding Route's Manager, Michael Blose, said the trip was unforgettable as they met birders from around the world at the famous British Bird Fair and the Dutch Bird Fair. Held in Rutland Water, the British Bird Fair is recognised as the biggest gathering of birders in the world. With Zululand boasting a high concentration of sought-after sightings and a wide diversity in habitats, Blose said there was a 'noticeable interest' in birding destinations in South Africa by visitors to both birding fairs. 'South Africa is definitely high on the radar screen when it comes to avi-tourism, competing against destinations such as Kenya and Uganda,' he said. He added that the Dutch Bird Fair attracted a lot of family groups and younger birders. This was a move away from the traditional perception that avi-tourism only attracts the 50-plus age group market. Unique experience And the guides also thoroughly enjoyed their first experience of the United Kingdom and Europe. 'The transport system in Amsterdam is excellent and there were lots of people everywhere. 'It was also nice to see places that are relatively crime-free. 'Cars just park on the side of the road as there is no real need for garages and we saw kids cycling around Amsterdam late at night,' he said. But the biggest highlight was meeting up with international birders who had visited Zululand. 'It was great to bump into some of our clients who greeted us like old friends. Birding is all about connecting with nature and meeting people -it was an amazing experience,' he said.

 

Water project splashes out

 

September 26, 2008

Zululand OBSERVER

	Water project splashes out Tanya Waterworth DONDOTHA community members danced with joy when taps were turned on for the first time following the official commissioning of a multi-million rand bulk pipeline project undertaken by uThungulu District Municipality in Mbonambi Municipality. Following months of anticipation, the taps were opened on the R11-million water project, which will benefit close to 130 000 people, at an average of eight people per 15 874 households. This 12km, 450mm diameter bulk pipeline will serve as a main artery leading from the Nseleni Water Works all the way to the Nomavovo area, which in effect means the pipeline will provide capacity for water to flow into Mbonambi and further to Ntambanana. Speaking at the launch held at Dondotha Community Hall, uThungulu District Mayor, Stan Larkan, said it was indeed a cause for celebration as this was one of the major projects on the district's budget. 'This project has been a long journey for us and I wish to thank our community and the Mbonambi Municipality for their patience and support, as well as our councillors and officials for their untiring efforts to get this project running,' said Larkan. The Upper Nseleni Project did experience some problems, resulting in a delay in the delivery of water to the community, which according to the uThungulu technical team, was with regard to ensuring that the water supply was clean. 'We want to make sure that if we provide service delivery to the community, it must be of the best quality,' said Executive Director Technical Services, Zwe Msomi. 'The reason for the delay at Dondotha and Pathane was because the pipes had to be cleaned first to avoid health hazards,' he added. Msomi further assured the Mbonambi community that by November, all areas around Dondotha would have access to water with the Sabhuza Reservoir open and about 470 taps working. GB Bhengu, a member of the KZN Legislature, said it was 'unfortunate' that since 1994, communities from Dondotha and Nseleni were still facing problems of access to clean water and good toilets. 'These are not the only areas affected, but many rural communities across KZN are still affected. About 61% of rural communities still do not have clean water and good toilets,' he said.

 

RAIN RELIEF

 

September 26, 2008

Zululand OBSERVER

	RAIN RELIEF Larry Bentley RESIDENTS in the fire-stricken areas of Zululand have welcomed the rains which have fallen over the weekend, mostly on Saturday. In the Melmoth area, which was worst hit by fires a few weeks ago, the farms south of the town received 50mm, while Melmoth itself recorded 42mm and north of Melmoth 22mm. Another area recently in the news due to the dire water shortage, Gingindlovu, received 61mm, but unfortunately this is not enough to relieve the situation and residents are urged to still conserve water. eShowe and Ntumeni received between 80-60mm, mostly as a continuous drizzle which was welcomed in the burnt areas since it prevented soil erosion. As figures from further north came in, the rainfall dropped dramatically, with only 20mm being measured in the Hluhluwe area. Richards Bay measured 100mm over Friday and Saturday, while Mtunzini recorded 85mm and Empangeni and Heatonville averaged 90mm. Farmers are hopeful that, although late, this will ease the dangerous fire conditions which have been prevalent over the last few weeks and will usher in the rainy season. KwaMbonambi, Port Durnford and Mtubatuba recorded 75mm, 95mm and 52mm respectively.

 

From: KZN Wildlife News Desk

Hippo Management

July 23, 2008;

HIPPO MANAGEMENT
Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife (EKZNW) is the provincial agency mandated to manage nature/biodiversity conservation within the province of KwaZulu-Natal. It is an agency that has a proud record of dedication to this purpose stretching back more than fifty years. The organization and its staff have come to realize that this mandate can produce situations that call for hard decisions and drastic action  - usually with regard to situations involving actual or potential conflict between large and potentially dangerous game and humans.

EKZNW has a very clear policy for dealing with problem animals and in particularly large and potentially dangerous game such as hippos. If such an animal cannot be driven back to its home range or captured it is destroyed before it becomes a threat to human life. From the very early days of this saga our staff monitored "the Verulam hippo" and its movements. It did not once present a safe opportunity either to catch or destroy it. There is also no explanation as to why hippos roam in this way - although a likely reason is that the animal had been evicted from its home range by a stronger herd bull. There is currently no viable way of preventing this sort of movement by hippos seeing as they usually move along waterways which are almost impossible to fence.

Our experience with roaming hippos is such that we know it is wise to leave the animal alone as much as possible until it chooses a direction of travel. This animal, after being harassed at Ballito sought refuge north of Tinley Manor in very dense bush so thick that it was not safe to track it. We did in fact state at the time that we hoped that it would carry on northwards and return to its place of origin.

EKZNW staff monitored the animal's movements constantly and had our game capture staff evaluating the situation both from the air and on the ground. These are men who are arguably amongst the most experienced in the game capture field in Africa if not globally –– and have an internationally acclaimed track record. Our experience in dealing with hippos goes back a long way indeed and over many years a great many methods of catching hippos have been tried with indifferent success. Using dart-injected drugs is seldom successful because the moment the dart hits the animal it flees to water which is its natural refuge. There the drug takes effect, the animal lapses into unconsciousness and drowns before it can be hauled out. In addition, there is, at this time, no safe, tried and tested immobilising drug combination that is effective on hippos. Using the drug combinations that makes rhino capture extremely successful places the life of the hippo at risk through its physical reaction to these drugs.

The other, more successful method is by passive capture which only works for animals already settled in an enclosed body of water like a small pan or dam. This involves erecting an electrified fence around the pan, and putting up a massively built steel enclosure with a trap door at the entrance. Lucern and hay is placed inside the trap and as the animals consume the natural fodder around the pan they begin to feed into the trap. It can take weeks before the animals venture into the trap and the door can be triggered. This does not work for a roaming single animal and certainly was not appropriate in the situation involving the ""Verulam hippo" that was in a river impossible to seal off.

A hippo is not an animal to be trifled with and of all the big game animals of Africa it has the reputation for causing the most human deaths. It must also be understood that this animal was in a very stressful and foreign environment. Hippos do enter the sea occasionally but not willingly and at Ballito this animal certainly was not surfing as many media reports indicated, and which gave the impression that the animal was having fun. This animal was being harassed by people, dogs, vehicles and aircraft, disturbances which ( in their protected area environment) they are normally not exposed to. Under these conditions hippos become very unpredictable, irritable and extremely dangerous. It is also highly unlikely that anyone who has no experience in hippo capture nor has access to heavy enough and appropriate equipment will succeed in catching one. An amateur capture operation will not only place at risk the lives of those directly involved but also those of innocent people in the vicinity.  Such an attempt is also quite likely to have a seriously negative environmental impact on the area in which the capture is attempted. We are, after all, talking about an animal that weighs up to one and half tonnes, is immensely powerful, fast, very aggressive and is armed with a fearful array of tusks which it has no compunction about using.
At no stage was capture a viable option in the case of the ""Verulam hippo", and EKZNW took the decision some time ago to destroy the animal before human lives were further threatened. It moved into a settled area at Verulam before this decision could be implemented. When the animal moved onto eThekweni Municipality land management of the situation passed to the eThekweni Municipality although EKZNW did agree to advise and support them where necessary. The eThekweni Municipality appointed a professional hunter to destroy the hippo and was also responsible for disposing of the carcase which was buried in one of the municipal dumps.

Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife sent two experienced members of staff as observers and as a back-up. Three shots from heavy calibre rifles were fired at the hippo which ran about 40 metres and disappeared into the river. A search using spotlights showed no sign of the animal which in itself was an indication that the animal was dead. Had it been wounded it would have been visible. At dawn the carcase of the animal was found at the same spot at which it had entered the river. This indicated that it had died within minutes of being shot. It was later found that one bullet had hit the animal in the heart. It is not uncommon for large animals to run a short distance after being heart-shot.
Critics might well say that EKZNW did not explore enough options but it must be understood that to begin experimenting with capture techniques when a large, powerful and aggressive animal is in the midst of a human settlement is not wise practice. It is also necessary to evaluate the physical impact of these operations on the immediate environment. The EKZNW Game Capture Unit has a long history of innovation with regard to animal capture and has been experimenting with various methods of catching hippos for many years. To date the most successful method has been passive capture with its attendant limitations.

Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife has received numerous emails and other messages from concerned citizens about this incident, and many opinions have been expressed in the various media. While the organisation appreciates the concern felt by the public, and respects people's right to express opinion, it must be emphasized that decisions taken in such situations are backed by knowledge, experience and understanding gained from similar occasions over time. EKZNW regrets that it was necessary to destroy this animal but does remind people that the organisation has a responsibility to the broader community in such circumstances.

Drought closes Mantuma Camp

 

September 16, 2008; Ron Physick

Due to the extreme drought being experienced in Northern Zululand, the boreholes that supply water to Mantuma Camp in Mkhuze Game Reserve have dried up. With immediate effect the camp is being closed until further notice. All visitors that have bookings are being contacted to cancel their visit and, where possible, to be offered an alternative venue. Mshopi Campsite near the main gate in Mkhuze Game Reserve has also been affected and will also be closed until further notice. 

The public will be kept informed about the situation through this website. Please contact Central Reservations on 033 8451000 for further information.

Water Water Every Where

With the "dry spell" the Zululand coast is experiencing the Northern Section has been so dry that the town of St. Lucia Estuary has been with daily dry tap for weeks. This is not helped by the aggressive development and expansion of the little town. Guest Houses seems to be the most favourable choice for developers. This is all and all very scary since the Water Supply is not the only problem the town is facing.

 

Eskom lines running through very sensitive wetlands and with the town only having one entrance, huge Eskom Pylons following the road leading to this world heritage site is not ideal. Further the problem of power extends to Eskom not being able to supply the countries power grid with sufficient power. St. Lucia Estuary also has  major waste disposal problem and the sewerage works was last updated in the early 1990's.

 

The sewerage pond system where designed with South African tourist target market. The evaporating pond system worked fine under the pressure of a hundred annual school holidays and the 250 days slow period. With World Heritage Status the market change and the tourist season is from August to February. Thus leaving almost no time for the evaporation system to function.

 

Since the town is build on a very small piece of land between the Estuary and the ocean and considering the sandy soil it will not be easy solving the problem of Water, Sewerage and waste disposal. Water supply is about 30 km away and ideally waste disposal will have to be run to Mtubatuba also 30 km away. Sewerage works will have to be moved there as well and this will lead to a pipe line running through the same sensitive wetlands system as the Eskom power lines. Leakage on such a line is unstoppable.

 

Development for St. Lucia Estuary is very bleak at the moment and the problems will prevail as long as nature is respected. Ironically the very thing that made this town famous are now threatened by the success the was born from it.

HEALTH HAZARD

 

September 12, 2008

Zululand OBSERVER

	HEALTH HAZARD Hundreds of local residents swarmed to the beach after a huge whale washed ashore between Port Durnford and New Mouth on Saturday. Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife District Conservation Manager - Frans Mthembu and Field Rangers - Erik Gcashebe and Philile Ngcamu were on scene to monitor events Dave Savides HEALTH officials are keeping a close watch on eSikhaleni residents who hacked off huge chunks of flesh and blubber from a rotting whale carcass during the week. While some of the meat and bones was said to be intended for muti and compost, most was destined for the pot, according to the harvesters. Fears are that eating the meat could cause serious illness. Weighing tons, the 20-metre long creature, possibly an adult male sperm whale, washed ashore halfway between Port Durnford and New Mouth on Saturday. But despite the intense heat early in the week, on Wednesday hundreds of panga-wielding residents were still chopping flesh from the giant mammal's carcass. Poverty indicator? 'Over the past 19 years I have been to many places where whales have washed ashore, but I have never seen anything like this feeding frenzy,' said Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife District conservation Manager, Frans Mthembu. 'Even though the smell of the putrid flesh chokes me from hundreds of metres away, the people stand on the body chopping meat for the stove.' The City of uMhlathuze Health Department was notified of the concerns and was liaising with provincial authorities at the time of going to press. Whale tour operator, Danie Bennett of St Lucia also visited the scene, gathering DNA samples for scientific study on behalf of the Oceanographic Research Institute.

 

What about beach driving

 

July 18, 2008

Zululand OBSERVER

	ANGLING NETS BIG BUCKS At the handover of the scientific study are Marius Vermaak -President of SSDAA, Hymie Steyn - PRO SADSAA, Dr Colin van Zyl - Environmental & Tourism Specialist and Project Leader Prof Marius Leibold, PhD - Professor in International Business Management Dave Savides IN a surprise result for sports-mad South Africans, researchers have determined that angling has a bigger economic impact than rugby and cricket combined. This unexpected outcome could have a substantial bearing on new momentum urging Government to reconsider the 4X4 beach ban and other coastal legislation. At the initiative of the South African Deep Sea Angling Association (SADSAA), an in-depth study of the contribution of recreational angling to the economy of South Africa was conducted by a team of experts of the University of Stellenbosch under the leadership of Prof Marius Leibold, PhD. Handover The final document was handed to SADSAA President, Marius Vermaak by Prof Leibold this week at the Stellenbosch Business School in Cape Town. It revealed that in 2007 approximately 2,5 million anglers spent R18.8-billion on their sport. More than 2.48 million informal (non club-orientated) anglers contributed R15-billion direct to the economy. 'As a result of increasing pressures on recreational anglers from various sources in South Africa, notably Marine & Coastal Management,) SADSAA decided to facilitate this project at a cost of R508 000 in the interests of its members,' said SADSAA PRO, Hymie Steyn. 'It became essential that a scientific study of this nature be undertaken in order not only to assist the various Government agencies in the law-making process on various levels, but also to underline the value of organised angling to the country - to date either completely ignored, not understood and never thoroughly researched by Government. 'This is the first ever scientific, in-depth research undertaken into recreational angling in South Africa and SADSAA and its members should be complimented,' said Steyn. 'Research has shown that a fish landed by the recreational angler generates up to 70 times more in income than that same fish if caught commercially. 'Most SADSAA tournaments are tag and release. 'In commercial fishing the source is irrevocably destroyed.' Local reaction The study results were welcomed by local expert Ivan Hartley, who was President of the Zululand Deep Sea Angling Association at the time the study was commissioned. 'With this scientific information we are armed with data that will enable us to renegotiate with Government from a position of strength. 'And given the steady erosion of our coastline each year - damage is being done that anglers on 4X4s could not do in decades - surely legislation must be adapted taking into account these realities.' One of the main motivational factors behind the SADSAA research is to make Marine & Coastal Management aware of the value of recreational angling and to ensure a practical decision-making process. • Sport & Recreational angling is at least 80% bigger than commercial fishing and at least 15 times larger than professional hunting • Annually, 31 860 anglers participate in Deep Sea angling, being one of the major facets of Sport & Recreation Angling in South Africa, resulting in R6.8-billion in total economic impact in SA in 2007 • The total economic impact of Deep Sea Angling consists of a total of three major parts: R5.3-billion direct economic impact (direct expenditure effects) on South Africa's economy, R1,33-billion indirect economic impact (multiplier economic effects) and, R 556-million induced effects (subsequent income and job effects) on the economy • Of the 31 860 participants in Deep Sea Angling as a sport and recreational activity, 9 844 are formal participants, while the informal (non-club) sector totals 22 372 • The economic effects of inflows - foreign tourism expenditures on Deep Sea Angling and wider leisure tourism - total R2.5 million per annum • Economic outflows - payment for imported goods and services for Deep Sea Angling - total R415-million annually • It is reliably estimated that Deep Sea Angling is at least five times bigger than cricket and rugby combined in SA - including economic inflows from international competitions • An estimated 18 000 boats participate in Deep Sea Angling in South Africa, with a total value of R3,7-billion • In/outboard engines totalling 37 000 have a value of R1,88-billion. The total investment including tow vehicles, trailers, etc is R10,2-billion • Fuel costs account for 29% of the total variable expenditures per annum • The total economic impact of Sport & Recreational Angling, including Deep Sea angling, is at least 40% larger than that of commercial fishing in South Africa.

 

Success is peanuts

 

July 11, 2008

Zululand OBSERVER

	Success is peanuts Ezimtoti Marketing Manager - Thulani Ntshangase, MEC for Economic Development - Zweli Mkhize and uThungulu District Municipality Mayor Stan Larkan prepare to sample Ezimtoti's peanut butter Dalena van Jaarsveld THEY have done it again - and this is only the launch. After appearing at numerous agricultural shows, winning the prize as the Best Young Entrepreneurs at the Agricultural Indaba in Richards Bay this year and having survived an accidental fire that destroyed at least a third of their sugarcane crop, the Ezimtoti Agricultural Co-operative at last held their official launch on Tuesday. And their efforts were not in vain. The function, held on site, was well attended by influential provincial leaders such as the MEC for Economic Development, Zweli Mkhize and uThungulu District Mayor Stan Larkan. The launch gave the community and delegates from various supporting groups of the co-operative the opportunity to taste their delectable peanut butter, which raised quite a stir as people scrambled for a jar to take home. Director of KZN Co-operatives at the Department for Economic Development, Simangele Manzi, was positive in her outlook on the co-operative. 'Their prospects are looking good based on passion alone. They don't wait for others, they just do what they need to. Go-getters, that's what they are,' said Manzi. 'This is the way to go. These young entrepreneurs have set a fine example,' said MEC Mkhize, not forgetting to point out, however, that the widespread support that they have received so far will not be enough unless they also get market support. 'It is time for the buyers to come forward.'

 

 

July 11, 2008

Zululand OBSERVER

	A first for essential oils uThungulu Mayor Stan Larkan turns the sod with uMlalazi Municipality Mayor MET Magwaza at the Essential Oils project, along with uMlalazi Deputy Municipal Manager Simon Mashabane, Cllr EM Ngema and Chief Whip Mrs QT Xulu STRONG market demand for essential oils has led to an innovative project being launched at Zikotshi, spearheaded by the uThungulu District Municipality. With the sod being turned on Saturday at the official opening, uThungulu District Mayor Stan Larkan confirmed that R100 000 had been ploughed into the project, which is the first of its kind in the community. Larkan added that the initiative indicated the district's drive to improve the quality for life for the Zikotshi community, just outside uMlalazi Municipality. The focus of the project is to boost economic development in the poverty-stricken region. The start-up farmers involved in the new initiative will also be taken on a study tour of a similar project being run in Nkandla and the District's SMME and Tourism LED Facilitator, Gugu Sibisi confirmed that the new farmers would be trained as Co-operatives to help them manage their business. Urging them to work as a team, Sibisi also explained to the community that while essential oils did not need a lot of water, the eradication of weeds should be regularly carried out to ensure that the plants grew well.

 

 

July 11, 2008

Zululand OBSERVER

	A first for essential oils uThungulu Mayor Stan Larkan turns the sod with uMlalazi Municipality Mayor MET Magwaza at the Essential Oils project, along with uMlalazi Deputy Municipal Manager Simon Mashabane, Cllr EM Ngema and Chief Whip Mrs QT Xulu STRONG market demand for essential oils has led to an innovative project being launched at Zikotshi, spearheaded by the uThungulu District Municipality. With the sod being turned on Saturday at the official opening, uThungulu District Mayor Stan Larkan confirmed that R100 000 had been ploughed into the project, which is the first of its kind in the community. Larkan added that the initiative indicated the district's drive to improve the quality for life for the Zikotshi community, just outside uMlalazi Municipality. The focus of the project is to boost economic development in the poverty-stricken region. The start-up farmers involved in the new initiative will also be taken on a study tour of a similar project being run in Nkandla and the District's SMME and Tourism LED Facilitator, Gugu Sibisi confirmed that the new farmers would be trained as Co-operatives to help them manage their business. Urging them to work as a team, Sibisi also explained to the community that while essential oils did not need a lot of water, the eradication of weeds should be regularly carried out to ensure that the plants grew well.

 

The South African Weather Service Investigation

The South African Weather Service Investigation 27 June 2008

Media Statement STATEMENT BY THE OFFICE OF THE MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENTAL AFFAIRS AND TOURISM, MARTHINUS VAN SCHALKWYK, 27 JUNE 2008 FRIDAY, 27 JUNE 2008 The Minister of Environmental Affairs and Tourism in March this year received allegations lodged by "concerned employees" of the Weather Service against certain members of the Senior Management and the then non - Executive Board members at the South African Weather Service (SAWS). The Minister requested the new Chairperson of the board of the SAWS, Ms Khungeka Njobe, to appoint PricewaterhouseCoopers (PWC) to conduct a forensic investigation into these allegations. The Chairperson of the board has briefed the Minister regarding the outcome of the investigation. She indicated that the SAWS Board accepts all findings, conclusions and recommendations contained in the PWC report and reported on actions the Board and Senior Management will take to correct those areas that require tightening of controls. A copy of the PWC report is available on the following link: www.environment.gov.za ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Enquiries to: Mava Scott (Acting Chief Director: Communications) Mobile: 082-411-9821 E-mail: mscott@deat.gov.za

New regulations to control trade in rhino horn

June 10, 2008;

MERCURY (Durban) 10 Jun 2008 Page 4

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New clampdown will control trade in rhino horns

EMERGENCY regulations to control illegal trade in rhino horns are due to be published later this week, to plug gaping holes in South Africa`s wildlife trade and export laws.
The measures will include a national moratorium on the sale or export of rhino horns, unless the owners can prove that the horns were acquired legally.
A senior official said the interim measures were expected to be published in the Government Gazette this Friday, but stressed that it was not expected to affect authorised professional trophy hunts.
Last week, Environmental Affairs and Tourism minister Marthinus van Schalkwyk announced that there had been a "dramatic increase" in the illegal trade of rhino horn and the hunting of white rhinos, which was directly linked to organised crime.
As a first step to control the problem, he had decided to impose a national freeze on the trade in individual rhino horns to enable SA National Parks and provinces to apply consistent permit and control procedures.
Van Schalkwyk said at least 27 white rhino had been poached in the Kruger National Park over the past two years and there had also been an increase in rhino horn poaching in other parts of the country. During the course of investigating rhino horn deals, it has been established that prospective hunters applied for permits to hunt rhino in various provinces, and that permits were subsequently issued. But on closer examination it was discovered that some of these hunts never took place and the relevant authorities were never informed.
This allowed the permit holder to legally export illegally obtained individual horns as hunting trophies.? It also emerged that some provincial nature conservation departments were not supervising the hunts they authorised and that some provinces still issued "exemption permits", which did not require hunters to notify the provincial authorities about details of a rhino hunt.
Exporting. A senior official in Van Schalkwyk`s department said yesterday that the moratorium on exporting individual rhino horns could last for at least one year. The officials said one of the problems was that until the recent enactment of the National Environmental Management Biodiversity Act, the control of rhino hunting was governed by different nature conservation regulations in the provinces.
This meant hunters could apply for permits in different provinces simultaneously, leading to "multiple hunts", ostensibly for a single animal.
The new measures, however, would only permit hunting one white rhino per hunter per year. All hunts would also have to be personally supervised by a provincial nature conservation official and all horns marked with a microchip.
No permits would be issued for horn exports unless they were shipped as part a certified rhino trophy by taxidermists.
The new restrictions would also apply to people who emigrated and no exports would be allowed unless the owners could provide satisfactory proof that they were not hunted illegally. Other sources have also expressed concern that several nationals from the Far East, including Koreans, have been visiting South Africa posing as trophy hunters, yet their sole interest appeared to be acquiring rhino horns for traditional medicine.
Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife spokesman Jeff Gaisford said the provincial nature conservation agency was seeking clarity about the implications of the new measures.
Gaisford said Ezemvelo was concerned that a moratorium could drive down the price of live rhinos, which were sold legally every year during the KZN Wildlife game auction.
During the most recent auction, the average price of white rhinos exceeded R250 000 each, with one trophy-quality rhino bull selling for R470 000.
However, a spokesman for the national Environmental Affairs Department said, "The new interim measures and moratorium do not affect the trophy hunting trade, nor is it a moratorium on hunting".
"The intention is to protect legal hunters and make sure that every legal hunt is conducted properly and that any horn exports are legal".

Re: Elephant Coast.Co.Za

Hi All,

 

We have upgraded www.elephantcoast.co.za to a self contained web site. This mean that every Resort, Lodge or Activity owner with a Registered Bussiness with in The Elephant Coast Region can promote their bussines via the Internet.

 

For Africa has all rights reserved.... This domain is the property of For Africa Internet Services (P.J. Viviers).

 

This domain will not host advertising, other than comments from Inbond Service providers.

 

To obtain a user name and password please visit http://elephantcoast.co.za/html/wp-admin/ and register yourself. After we have confirmed your loco standing we will upgrade you to a Contributor. As a Contributor you will have the ability to write and edit your own posts. This includes web based photos.

 

Please feel free to Forward this email to relevant establishments on your mailiing lists...

 

The anual hosting will be paid by For Africa Internet Services. This is currently a free service. The condition may change in the future, but will be with a six months grace period. No invoices will be issued with out an official order. This will not be an automated transfomation. It is all based on Internet Costs, Hosting fees and domain ownership.

 

Please contact

 

Petrus Viviers

083 584 7473

webmaster@forafrica.co.za

 

 

Tourism Stats Big Fat Lie

By Jeremy Gordin and Mike Cadman

The statistics used by the government to boast about South Africa's ability to attract tourism are, at best, "a sleight of hand" because the numbers are not a reflection of real tourism.

This was the response of Professor Loren Landau, the head of the University of the Witwatersrand's forced migration studies programme, to an analysis (by country of origin) of the statistics used by the government to claim the fastest growing tourism in the world.

In 2007, a total of 9,07-million foreigners visited South Africa - an 8,3 percent increase over 2006 - as the country broke its record for annual tourist arrivals for the third year running.

But 2-million (just over 22 percent) of the 9 million official, annual visitors come from Zimbabwe and Mozambique, while another 3-million tourists come from Lesotho and Swaziland.

This means that 5,2-million of South Africa's visitors emanate from four of the poorest countries in the world.

 

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Hi Guys,

 

sorry to say ... I told you so ... back in 2004 already. so we organise biker weekends, but the local residents complain.

 

we want beach driving, but the guest houses complain.

 

So what are we going to do know. The bulk of our tourist are street vendours selling cheap knock offs competing with tax paying bussiness..

 

Please note that they are extremly axposed to Xenophobia, thus not a very stable customer base...

 

So St. Lucia has experienced a Bed & Breakfast Explosion .... may be the 2010 soccer world cup will fill the beds!

 

I know I am going to wach the game on my new Z8 cellphone with video streaming. Got two from Vodacom for R135.00/month including free minutes.

 

I see Cell C have them for R100.00/month including 100 free minutes.... So maybe the tourist will come to South Africa and watch the soccer with our cheap

band width while they enjoying lesuire time next to your pool or on a game drive....

 

I ask again, why can't we drive on the beaches...? to be continued.....!!!

Countrywide "Clean Cement" Campaign

Green Scorpions Embark on Countrywide "Clean Cement" Campaign 27 May 2008

Media Statement Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism TUESDAY, 27 MAY 2008 On Monday, 26 May 2008 the Green Scorpions embarked on the first of a series of compliance inspections at various cement manufacturing facilities across the country. The blitz signals the start of the "Clean Cement" campaign. The blitz will see Green Scorpions (Environmental Management Inspectors) from the Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism as well as six provinces conduct inspections. Other role players include the Department of Water Affairs and Forestry and local municipalities. The six provinces involved and the planned inspections include: Limpopo -  PPC inspection Gauteng (Tshwane) - PPC Hercules Inspection KwaZulu-Natal (Port Shepstone) - Cipmor NPC Inspection Eastern Cape (New Brighton) - PPC Inspection Western Cape (De Hoek and Riebeeck) - PPC Inspections An inspection of the Lafarge plant in the North West yesterday, 26 May 2008, signalled the start of the "Clean Cement" campaign. Green scorpions will monitor compliance with all environmental legislations, authorisations and permits applicable to each site. The campaign follows the success of the multi-year national environmental compliance campaign in the iron and steel and ferroalloy industry, known as Operation Ferro. "The cement industry has been prioritised in this new environmental compliance campaign because of the growing demand for its products. An increase in construction and development projects in the country and rapid expansions in the cement sector means that the industry may contribute significantly to pollution if not mitigated and managed properly," said Ms Joanne Yawitch, Deputy Director General for Environmental Quality and Protection at DEAT. On 30 April 2008, a Cement Industry Workshop was held where representatives from the sector were informed on what to expect during the compliance inspections and how to adequately prepare for it. "Inspectors will consider findings of significant non-compliances to environmental authorisations in a serious light, and appropriate enforcement action will follow," emphasised Yawitch. She added that other key industries will soon be subjected to similar assessments. In addition, to Operation Ferro, the Department is already leading a national environmental compliance and enforcement project in relation to the six big oil refineries in the country. The inspections will occur for the duration of this week. To schedule media interviews, contact : Roopa Singh on 082 225 3076 or rsingh@deat.gov.za ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Enquiries to: Mava Scott (Acting Chief Director: Communications) Mobile: 082-411-9821 E-mail: mscott@deat.gov.za

Rhino poachers nabbed

May 26, 2008

Zululand OBSERVER

	Rhino poachers nabbed Lesley Stephenson SIX persons alleged to be involved in the poaching and selling of a white rhino from the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve have been arrested. In a combined operation between the Organised Crime Unit (OCU) and Mtuba SAPS, Mandla Peter Manqele (32) from Ulundi, Zemizi Sihle Manqele (24) from Ulundi, Bafana Professor Gumede (34) from Mfekaye, Dumisani Bongani Gumede (50) from Matubatuba and Mashonisha Abram Mothlabane (66) from Krugersdorp were arrested following a tip-off. Evidence recovered OCU Investigating Officer, Insp Sitha Makhanya, with assistance from from Mtuba SAPS Inspector S E Nxumalo and student constables Mkhwanazi, Buthelezi and Mdletshe, recovered cash, possibly proceeds from the selling of the rhino horn and the R1 rifle which has been linked to the poaching incident. Street value Head of OCU, Supt Mthembu, confirmed the street value of the poached horn at R1-million, while the value of the rhino is R500 000. 'Poached horn is used for jewellery, ornaments or trophies, as well as for muti purposes,' said Mbatha. He added that the arrests followed a highly successful month for the Organised Crime Unit, who have also enjoyed some good convictions and arrests for armed robbery and hijacking cases.

 

MECs to Sign the Grasslands Conservation Declaration

Deputy Minister and MECs to Sign the Grasslands Conservation Declaration at Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens on the 22nd May 2008 21 May 2008

Media Alert Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism WEDNESDAY, 21 MAY 2008 A declaration committing Government to implement the national Grasslands Programme to conserve the deteriorating grasslands will be signed at the Walter Sisulu National Botanical Gardens, on the 22nd May 2008. The Deputy Minister of Environmental Affairs and Tourism, Ms Rejoice Mabudafhasi, will be the first to sign the Declaration, and will be joined by Provincial Environmental MECs. MECs handling environment portfolios will also sign include Gauteng MEC Mr. Khabisi Mosunkutu, Limpopo MEC Mr. Collins Chabane and KZN MEC Mr. Mtholephi Mthimkhulu This is the first formal commitment towards conserving South Africa's grasslands that brings together all stakeholders to conserve biodiversity in the grasslands biome. Covering 29% of South Africa and crossing seven provinces, the grasslands biome is the second largest biome in South Africa. However, 30% of this important biome is irreversibly transformed, and less than 2% is formally conserved, falling far short of international conservation targets. Other VIPs expected to attend are the Acting Director-General of the Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism, representative of United Nations Development Program (UNDP), CEOs of Conservation Agencies and senior officials and representatives of partner organizations. The media is invited to attend. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For more information please contact:: Moses Rannditsheni (Media Liaison Officer for the Deputy Minister) Mobile: 082-448-2450 E-mail: mailto:mrannditsheni@deat.gov.za OR Nandi Mgwndlamba (SANBI) Mobile: 078-702-9663