Immerse yourself in any one (or all) of the three accommodation facilities that the ≠Khoadi-//Hôas Conservancy has an offer, and you will be contributing to the long-term sustainability of the community and the conservation of the area. A percentage of the earnings of the lodge is allocated to the Conservancy and is a means of support both financially and by providing employment to the people.
The Conservancy stands as a testament to the success of community-based conservation, narrating an incredible tale of metamorphosis for both the local wildlife and the community. It serves as a shining example of compassionate and impactful tourism.
Prior to 1990, the area was almost entirely devoid of game. Both
commercial and private farmers considered wildlife, particularly lions
that preyed on their livestock and elephants and antelope that damaged
their crops, as troublesome and costly. The presence of these animals
also posed risks to the safety of the people living in the area.
Uncontrolled hunting for meat and trophies further exacerbated the
situation, leading to the decline of many species and pushing them to
the brink of extinction.
As the community became
custodians and beneficiaries of the concession, their perception of
conservation shifted, and former poachers turned into dedicated
conservationists. Their expertise in tracking and knowledge of the area
proved invaluable in safeguarding wildlife.
The abundance
and diversity of species that can now be found living in the concession is a far cry from what it once was. The combined efforts of
conservationists, government, international assistance and the once
marginalised communities living on the outskirts of the concession have ensured the longevity of many
species and the restoration of a thriving ecosystem.
Today, the
≠Khoadi //Hôas Conservancy is proud to be part of an international case
study of how conservation efforts can be successful and sustainable. By
visiting this awe-inspiring region and supporting its conservation, you
play a vital role in ensuring the area's long-term sustainability and
supporting its people.
- They were the first community-based conservancy to apply for registration.
- Grootberg Lodge was the conservancy's first tourism venture.
- The lodge was the first medium-sized facility to be wholly owned by a community conservation organization.
- The lodge has become an important source of income for the conservancy and its members.
- Community members benefit from the training as they develop new, marketable skills.
- The lodge won a Community Benefit Award at the World Travel and Tourism Council's prestigious Tourism for Tomorrow Awards in 2010.
- The conservancy has become a pioneer in integrating wildlife, livestock, and water management.
- The number of wildlife in the conservancy is constantly increasing.
- They are registered as custodians in the Black Rhino Custodian Program, established and managed by the Ministry of Environment and Tourism.
- It is one of the first conservancy areas to reintroduce black rhino and black-faced impala.
- With support, they have established a compensation system to minimize the impacts of human-wildlife conflict.
- They have established a trust fund for traditional authorities.
- The Grootberg Lodge Education Fund was established to provide scholarships to promising students, benefiting the children of tomorrow.
- Through financial contributions to the nature reserve, the lodge contributes to mitigating human-wildlife conflict (HWC).
- The lodge supports community members with projects such as the construction of schools, clinics, water points, and a community kitchen for the elderly and those in need.