WRSA commits to transformation
Published: 30th Mar 2017
The Wildlife Ranching industry is committed to play a leading role in the transformation of South Africa's agriculture industry.
WRSA is committed to work with government to turn million hectares of land into black-owned game reserves that will contribute meaningfully to South Africa's transformation and conservation goals.
Wildlife ranching has already played an important role in rural development, having transformed more than 20 million hectares of marginal agricultural land into thriving game ranches with its full value chain giving employment to more than 100 000 people.
We at WRSA are by no means complacent about the significant transformation challenge that still lies ahead, especially regarding the burning issue of land restitution. We believe that all sectors of society must work towards ensuring that land restitution is not only successful but sustainable, and that it contributes to South Africa's biodiversity, economic growth, job creation and food security.
WRSA has already partnered with the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform, the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, and the Department of Environmental Affairs to find workable solutions. It is working with SANPARKS to assist new game ranchers and many of its members are providing mentorship to facilitate skills transfer and establishing joint ventures with aspirant black game ranchers. We are also instrumental in getting the Game Meat Scheme off the ground, which should create many entrepreneurial opportunities and also result in food and job security.
Transformation of South Africa's wildlife sector is essential to grow and nurture our biodiversity, economic progress, as well as peace and harmony. We believe that game ranching can act as a catalyst to ensure that this important objective is met.
The Mebala Ya Rona Transformation Fund is an initiative by the North West Department of Rural Environment and Agricultural Development with the aim of contributing to transformation in the wildlife sector through closer co-operation between the industry, business, government and communities. – [+27 (0)83 650 0442, pa@wrsa.co.za]
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