Dr Bandile Mkhize Chief Executive Officer

As we embark on our journey, lets remind ourselves…. South Africa is celebrating 20 years of freedom made possible through the sacrifices of many……

The Constitution of South Africa is the supreme law of the country of South Africa. It provides the legal foundation for the existence of the republic, sets out the rights and duties of its citizens, and defines the structure of the government From the Constitution directly: “Everyone has the right to an environment that is not harmful to their health or well-being; and to have the environment protected, for the benefit of present and future generations, through reasonable legislative and other measures that prevent pollution and ecological degradation; promote conservation; and secure ecologically sustainable development and use of natural resources while promoting justifiable economic and social development.”ecologically sustainable development

Key Points to note: An environment that is not harmful to their health or well-being; The environment protected, for the benefit of present and future generations Promote conservation; and secure ecologically sustainable development and use of natural resources while promoting justifiable economic and social development.” ecologically sustainable development

To ensure effective conservation and sustainable use of KwaZulu-Natal’s biodiversity in collaboration with stakeholders for the benefit of present and future generations

Lets talk about the concept of African Conservation – Conservation must benefit people Ezemvelo has a crucial role in achieving what the Constitution has set out as environmental rights for present and future generations VS

Our Community Levy Programme – a percentage of revenue from tourist that comes to visit a conservation area goes towards the upliftment of communities. Ezemvelo also actively seeks partnerships with stakeholders in order to secure additional resources for projects that are mutually beneficial both to conservation and communities surrounding our parks ( jobs created and R446.8 million spent in the last 5 years) Ezemvelo encourages responsible tourism which is “Responsible travel to natural areas that conserve the environment and improves the well being of local people"

Ezemvelo realises that for the Constitutional Environmental Rights to be upheld, there should be an increased perception of the value of conservation. The organisation is constantly looking for new ways, e.g. through Ezemvelo Cup & Community Ambassadors, to take conservation issues to the people.

Ezemvelo also realises that conservation is about passion. Thus, we need to start lobbying our nation from an early age (our children) as they are our future, they are the ones who will eventually take decisions….we have programmes such as S’fundimvelo

20 years later, we still faced with three challenges that should be on everyone’s mind are; Poverty ; Unemployment ; Underdevelopment – This is where as players in the Tourism Industry, we can make a significant difference

It is a known fact that through the promotion of ecotourism, there is enormous potential to create much needed green jobs to improve levels of employment, equity and equality. After 20 years, we have to accelerate progress and fulfil the basic needs of our nation. It is our responsibility, everyone can make a difference. All we ask is for your support so that Ezemvelo can do more.

According to the KZN Nature Conservation Management Act 9 of 1997 a)To direct the management of I.nature conservation within the province II.protected areas III.the development and promotion of ecotourism facilities within the protected areas b) To ensure the proper efficient and effective management of the Conservation Service

Ezemvelo has a proven track record of implementing community upliftment projects. Ezemvelo is one of the largest players within KwaZulu-Natal’s tourism industry Ezemvelo has a vested interest in improving the lives of the people to enable conservation. Ezemvelo is positioned in such a way that it operates within the rural areas and not only understands the dynamics, but also has structures to facilitate investments. Let us all pledge to fight the evils of unemployment, poverty and inequality for a better tomorrow.