– by Cindy Koen, FrFr Project Manager
Creating a sense of pride for one’s home is a critical factor of community development. Rural-based communities have so many struggles that they do not always get to witness their own natural beauty resources.
The BaDinkwanyane Tourism Project was born out of consultation with the people of Phiring as part of the Dinkwanyane Water Smart Project. It was expressed that tourism would be a valuable asset to the future development of the region and so community development strategy was created.
Creating community awareness of what a tourism project would entail was discussed in detail; the hard work required to set it up, as well as the long-term benefits. Two beautiful sites were identified and prepared for tourists. The project partners (Kruger to Canyons Biosphere Region, Conservation South Africa, and Hoedspruit Hub) felt it was of utmost importance for the community to experience the tourism sites themselves before the greater public was invited to come along.
As a result, on the 20th of November, numerous people from the community, project partners, and a representative from the Government of Flanders set out as honoured guests to experience the newly prepared hidden gems.
The BaDinkwanyane Tourism Association began by thanking the Chief, community, project partners, and the funder. At the first site, Sekweneng, the Chief and the Flanders representative ‘cut’ the ribbon for the official launch of this new community development.
Sekweneng boasts a magnificent perennial Tufa waterfall. Standing below the falling crystal clear water, the aroma of damp soil arose as we scanned the sheer vastness of the waterfall dotted with ferns, moss and other plant life.
The next site, Sethunyeng, required a bit more walking to reach but the treasure at the end made it all worthwhile. Entering the forest area, we found ourselves surrounded by magnificent riverine trees. As the path meandered we discovered a wealth of flora as well as animal tracks; witness to earlier passers-by. Rounding a bend we found ourselves completely surrounded by waterfalls and streams. Wanting to stop and admire the beauty, our guide urged us on with the promise of an even more spectacular sight. A moderately rocky section led us to the foot of the ‘Gun rock’; a monolithic stone outcrop surrounded by a series of waterfalls. We were lost in wonder as we explored the pools and waterfalls and the pristine beauty of the site.
On our return, we adventurers were treated to a lovely traditional meal and entertainment with songs and local games.
The entire trip was awe-inspiring and allowed us to re-connect with nature, absorbing its magnificent power and leaving re-vitalised. This community development was identified, discussed and resulted in a success for the locals.
To experience this for yourself, please make a booking by calling the BaDinkwanyane Tourism Office on 063 533 9794. You will not be disappointed!
FUNDERS/PARTNERS: Flanders; HH; CSA