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Bathurst staar mynbedreiging in die gesig

PIET MARAIS - DIE BATHURST gemeenskap berei hom voor daarop om die jongste bedreiging van ’n sand- en steenmyn op die historiese 3000 hektaar meentgrond die hoof te bied...

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Bathurst staar mynbedreiging in die gesig

24 Mei 2025

PIET MARAIS - DIE BATHURST gemeenskap berei hom voor daarop om die jongste bedreiging van ’n sand- en steenmyn op die historiese 3000 hektaar meentgrond die hoof te bied...

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Toenemende belangstelling in volhoubare reise - opnames

20 Mei 2025

ANNE KRUGER - ‘n Verslag deur die World Travel & Tourism Council toon dat verbruikers ten gunste van volhoubare toerisme is, maar dat koste steeds die grootste invloed op hul keuses het...

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Mining application curveball for Bathurst

15 Mei 2025

PIET MARAIS, GST Editor - Scarcely a year after the Bathurst Commonage Management Committee (BCMC) was formed as a milestone of collaboration, they are met with their first major challenge...

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PRESS RELEASE, DR DION GEORGE - As we join the global community in celebrating Earth Day 2025, I am proud to reflect on the progress we have made in safeguarding South Africa's environment and fostering a sustainable future for all. This significant day on the environmental calendar offers a powerful opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to preserving our natural heritage and tackling the urgent complexities of climate change, biodiversity loss and resource scarcity. Since taking office as Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, my department has worked diligently to advance policies and initiatives that protect our environment while promoting resilience and prosperity. Today, I am pleased to highlight some of the impactful efforts underway, particularly in the City of Cape Town, which exemplifies environmental leadership. The City of Cape Town is a trailblazer in climate action, having earned an A rating from the Carbon Disclosure Project in 2022 for its climate change disclosures and recognition as a national winner in the One Planet City Challenge. As a member of the C40 Cities alliance, Cape Town is dedicated to innovative solutions to combat climate change. The city's ambition to achieve Urban Forest status in the coming years leverages Nature based Solutions, expanding urban canopy cover, mapped through advanced satellite imaging, to enhance resilience against high heat days, protect biodiversity and sequester carbon. Cape Town's global leadership was further highlighted as the host of the 2024 Earthshot Prize Awards Ceremony, which celebrated innovative climate solutions, reinforcing its role as a pioneer in sustainable urban development. Nationally, we are steadfast in our efforts to protect our rich fauna and flora. A landmark achievement has been brokering a court case to save the iconic African Penguin from extinction, ensuring this treasured species endures for future generations. We are also cracking down on environmental crime, holding criminals accountable for the poaching of our precious animals, including rhino, abalone, pangolins and plants, to safeguard our biodiversity for future generations. In a water scarce country like South Africa, where climate change intensifies complexities, my department is prioritising sustainable water management to secure this vital resource. We are accelerating the transition to renewable energy by expanding solar photovoltaic and wind energy to address South Africa's electricity needs while advancing our climate goals, aligning with the ambitions of the Paris Agreement. We are holding Eskom accountable for their emissions through very strict conditions, ensuring compliance with environmental standards while supporting energy reliability. We are actively developing carbon markets to unlock the rich potential of South Africa's biodiversity, creating economic opportunities while promoting conservation and climate resilience. As the chair of the G20, we will use this platform to make further progress on improving the global environmental situation, advocating for sustainable development and collaborative solutions to protect our planet for future generations. Across the country, we are committed to maintaining clean and presentable environments through efficient service delivery and responsible resource management. From urban cleanups to sustainable waste practices, we are working to preserve South Africa's natural beauty. On this Earth Day, I urge all South Africans to join in protecting our environment. Whether through reducing waste, conserving water or supporting sustainable policies, every action matters. Together, we can ensure that South Africa's natural heritage thrives for generations to come. Let us celebrate Earth Day 2025 by renewing our commitment to a greener, more resilient South Africa, a nation that is beautiful, sustainable and thriving. For media enquiries please contact: Thobile Zulu-Molobi: +27 82 513 7154 / tmolobi@dffe.gov.za | Peter Mbelengwa: +27 82 611 8197 / pmbelengwa@dffe.gov.za ISSUED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF FORESTRY, FISHERIES AND THE ENVIRONMENT
Earth Day 2025: Building a sustainable and resilient South Africa

22 April 2025

PRESS RELEASE, DR DION GEORGE - As we join the global community in celebrating Earth Day 2025, I am proud to reflect on the progress we have made in safeguarding South Africa's environment for all...

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11 April 2025 PRESS RELEASE, Cape Town - World Travel Market (WTM) Africa yesterday announced the winners of its prestigious 2025 Responsible Tourism Awards, recognising outstanding contributions to sustainable and responsible tourism practices across the continent. "Today, we're here to celebrate Africa's changemakers," said Rachel Nxele, SATSA's Vice Chairperson and Chair of Responsible Tourism, who presented the awards. "Among you are small businesses and large businesses. All of you have made a significant contribution not just to make tourism better, but to make tourism responsible." The ceremony recognised 20 businesses from nine countries: Kenya, Namibia, São Tomé and Príncipe, Rwanda, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe. Gold Award Winners In the Nature Positive category, Emboo Safari Camp claimed the Gold Award for its pioneering approach to luxury sustainable hospitality. The Kenya-based operation has successfully demonstrated that high-end tourism experiences can coexist with and actively contribute to environmental regeneration. !Khwa ttu, known as "the embassy of the San," received Gold in the Shared Value category for its innovative integration of San cultural heritage, ethical sourcing, and community empowerment into its food and beverage offerings. "We value this award because we're passionate about recycling. We support our locals by buying only from our locals. We all need each other. If you look after your friend, your friend will look after you. We need to stand up together," said their representative. Similarly, Dlala Nje earned Gold for its immersive inner-city tours and experiences that empower local communities while challenging stereotypes. For excellence in Managing Waste, HBD Principe secured Gold for implementing comprehensive waste management systems on a UNESCO Biosphere island with no industrial treatment facilities. Their initiatives include innovative glass recycling and community engagement programmes. Township and Village was awarded Gold in the Peace and Inclusivity category for connecting communities in Stellenbosch to tourism while raising awareness about socio-economic divides and apartheid-era displacement. The organisation has developed comprehensive workplace policy manuals that ensure all employees understand their rights, responsibilities and expectations, with ethical standards aligned to responsible tourism commitments. In the Climate Change category, Green Safaris of Zambia earned Gold for pioneering "Silent Safaris" with solar-powered electric vehicles. Their lodges are over 80% solar-powered and they've eliminated single-use plastics. Through their foundation, they distribute fuel-efficient stoves that reduce household emissions by an estimated 2.28 tons of carbon annually. The judges were particularly impressed by their bamboo planting initiatives and ecosystem restoration efforts. Foxes Safari Camps received Gold in the All Inclusive category for applying circular economy principles throughout their operations. They maintain organic vegetable gardens and a working livestock farm to supply their properties with fresh produce, source 90% of supplies from local communities, and prioritise skills development through training programmes in hospitality, guiding, driving and aviation. They also produce furniture and provide vehicle maintenance training for local artisans and mechanics. Silver Award Winners Silver Awards were presented to several outstanding initiatives including: Volcanoes Safaris (Uganda/Rwanda) - Nature Positive The Community Rhino Conservation Initiative (Zimbabwe) - Nature Positive Kijani Supplies (Kenya/Uganda) - Shared Value Hamagriza Indigenous Restaurant & Hub (South Africa) - Shared Value Destination Zero Waste Zanzibar (TUI Care Foundation project) - Waste Management, which has created 48 jobs and collected over 1.5 million kilograms of glass and nearly 15,000 kilograms of plastic waste Table Mountain Aerial Cableway Company (South Africa) - Waste Management, which manages 1.2 million kilograms of waste over the past decade, diverting 62% from landfills and creatively repurposing old cable car cables into souvenirs The Heart of Cape Town under Uthando SA - Peace & Inclusivity, which illuminated wire art across parts of Cape Town created by local artists to promote love, compassion and kindness Saruni Base Camp (Kenya) - Climate Change Mitigation Hideaways Africa (One to Watch) - Recognised for responsible tourism initiatives addressing environmental conservation and community engagement across operations in South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe One To Watch Several emerging projects were recognised as "One To Watch" due to their innovation or early-stage potential. These include: TUI Futureshapers Namibia, which is piloting electric vehicle training linked to employment pathways Conservation-led operations such as Loisaba Conservancy Ele Collection (Zimbabwe), a grassroots initiative tackling plastic waste at Victoria Falls. Established in October 2024, they've developed a comprehensive waste recovery programme that empowers vulnerable women through income opportunities, transforming seven types of plastic waste into construction materials City Visa, which uses gamification tools to encourage more sustainable travel behaviours among visitors engaging with conflict heritage routes across southern Africa "These are not easy awards to win," emphasised Professor Harold Goodwin, WTM Responsible Tourism Advisor who led the expert panel of judges. "The judging process is intense and to be honest, it gets harder each year. To be on this recognition list is a massive achievement." Megan De Jager, Portfolio Director for the event’s producer RX Africa, commented on the winners: "Your work inspires us to build a responsible future." In keeping with that ethos: every award handed out was handcrafted by local children in collaboration with Uthando SA using corks donated by Painted Wolf Wines - a creative reuse initiative making each trophy both meaningful and unique. To close off celebrations on a warm note befitting African hospitality traditions-the ceremony concluded with a curated wine-and-chocolate pairing experience sponsored by Painted Wolf Wines featuring responsibly sourced ingredients produced within fair-trade supply chains. All gold winners will now move forward automatically into consideration for WTM London’s Global Responsible Tourism Awards later this year-offering international exposure alongside industry leaders from around the world. About WTM Africa Responsible Tourism Awards The WTM Africa Responsible Tourism Awards recognise and promote the most inspiring and replicable examples of responsible tourism practices in the African tourism industry. The awards are aligned with the global sustainable development goals and aim to encourage the industry to adopt responsible tourism practices for the benefit of destinations, communities, and the environment.
WTM Africa announces winners of 2025 Responsible Tourism Awards

11 April 2025

CAPE TOWN - World Travel Market (WTM) Africa yesterday announced the winners of its prestigious 2025 Responsible Tourism Awards, recognising outstanding contributions to sustainable and responsible tourism practices across the continent...

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9 April 2025 PRESS RELEASE, CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA - World Travel Market (WTM) Africa 2025 officially opened today with unprecedented global participation, welcoming industry professionals from a record 96 countries under the theme "Ignite Africa". The event signals strong recovery and growth in African tourism, with significant increases in both buyer and exhibitor numbers. In her opening address, Carol Weaving, Managing Director of RX Africa, highlighted the event's impressive growth: "We have 96 countries represented this year, which is the biggest World Travel Market Africa in eleven years. We have a 27% increase in buyers this year and 82% of these are new to World Travel Market Africa, which is amazing for our exhibitors." The eleventh edition of WTM Africa features 742 exhibitors, with first-time participation from six new destinations: Zambia, Netherlands, Qatar, Croatia, Sierra Leone and São Paulo. The event has also attracted 13 new buyer countries, including Peru, Algeria, Uzbekistan, Malaysia, Thailand, Czech Republic, Azerbaijan, Latvia, Romania, Finland, Ireland, and Kuwait. Alderman James Vos, Cape Town's Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth and Tourism, welcomed delegates to "the best city in the world," noting that "Cape Town was now ranked as the best city in the world by Time Out for 2025, moving up from the second place last year." Vos went on to share key statistics that reflect Cape Town’s growing role as a travel hub: 226 international flights land weekly, connecting Cape Town to 31 destinations. A total of 76 cruise ships are scheduled this season. Targeted marketing campaigns reached over 68 million people in India alone - with more than 130 million page impressions within just one month. During his address, Vos outlined his five-point programme to drive tourism growth in Cape Town, starting with landing more flights. "The more flights we land, the more visitors we attract, the more jobs we create," he said, citing recent engagements with airlines in India about launching direct routes between Cape Town and Indian cities. Similar efforts will be made later this year during an official visit to China. His plan also includes expanding the city's cruise economy, increasing conferences and events, implementing clever destination marketing, and investing in more attractions and experiences with geographic spread. Vos stressed that all these efforts are underpinned by investment into infrastructure resilience - including water security projects; independent energy generation; expanded public transport; enhanced law enforcement deployment; and visa reform initiatives aimed at improving access: "One of the biggest barriers to travel is access. That’s why I champion visa reform - to make it easier for visitors to choose South Africa - and ultimately Cape Town." Both leaders highlighted the importance of tourism as an economic driver, with Vos stating: "Tourism is more than just an industry. It's a game changer for businesses and communities. And tourism isn't just about the places we visit. It's also about the people we empower." WTM Africa 2025 features a comprehensive programme including responsible tourism awards, content sessions across five theatres, travel tech showcases, and specialised events focused on business tourism, eco-tourism, and tourism investment. The event has generated 38,559 appointment requests, reflecting its serious business nature. Weaving concluded her remarks by emphasising the human element driving African tourism success: "Africa's people are our superpower".
World Travel Market Africa 2025 "Ignites Africa"

9 April 2025

CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA - World Travel Market (WTM) Africa 2025 officially opened today with unprecedented global participation, welcoming industry professionals from a record 96 countries under the theme "Ignite Africa". The event signals strong recovery and growth in African tourism...

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16 November 2024 FANIE KRIGE, Solid Stuff Media Agency - Bettysbaai parkrun is 'n perfekte voorbeeld van die internasionale verskynsel wat in 2024 sy twintigste bestaansjaar gevier het en steeds groei en floreer. Van 'n nederige begin met dertien deelnemers by Bushy Park, Londen, het parkrun uitgebrei na miljoene hardlopers by 2 500 plekke in 23 lande. Dit is 'n gratis gemeenskapsgeleentheid wat bekend is vir sy positiewe, verwelkomende en inklusiewe omgewing waar deelnemers kan stap, draf, hardloop, vrywillig diens doen of toekyk as toeskouer. Daar is geen tydsbeperking nie, en niemand eindig laaste nie. Die stelsel beloon deurlopende deelname en vrywillige pogings met spesiale ikone vir diegene wat 25, 50, 100, 250 en 500 lopies of pligte voltooi het. Sowat 'n maand gelede het die parkrun-gemeenskap in Bettysbaai, bestaande uit sowat 150 gereelde deelnemers en 24 vrywilligers, van die 10 Boemerangs-projek geleer. Hierdie unieke poging, wat deur South Beach parkrun naby Fremantle in Wes-Australië bekendgestel is, behels die stuur van boemerangs na verskillende parkruns regoor die wêreld. Alle boemerangs kom met instruksies vir ontvangers om hul gebeure met foto's te dokumenteer, wat 'n gevoel van eenheid en gedeelde avontuur onder die globale parkrun-gemeenskap bevorder. Boemerang 3 is van die Harold Porter Botaniese Tuin in Bettysbaai na die Botaniese Tuine-parkrun in Pretoria geneem, wat saamgeval het met hul borskanker-bewusmakingsdag. Dit het twee weke later na Somerset-Wes teruggekeer en toe na Bredasdorp gereis, vanwaar dit na die Atlasville-parkrun in Gauteng geneem is. Dit vergesel Willem Scholtz nou na Uvongo in KwaZulu-Natal, waar hy gehoop het om 'n oorsese hardloper te vind om sy reis na die buiteland voort te sit. Nog 'n boemerang, B5, wat tans sy rondte in Suid-Afrika doen, was in die hande van Marelise Stodart-Lochner, wat vanaf die Voortrekkermonument-parkrun na Kaapstad gereis het. Op pad het sy die Afrikaans is Groot Musiekfees in Pretoria bygewoon. Voor dit het B5 'n paar weke in KwaZulu-Natal deurgebring en die wonderlike natuurreservate en wild daar ten toon gestel. Die 10 Boemerangs-projek het reeds ongelooflike plasings, foto's en verbindings gegenereer, wat die ware gees van hierdie wêreldwye avontuur beliggaam. Ten spyte van die verlies van 'n paar boemerangs, bly organiseerders hoop dat hulle uiteindelik sal terugkeer na South Beach naby Fremantle, Wes-Australië. Vir meer besonderhede en om die boemerangs se reis te volg, besoek die 10 Boomerangs Facebook-bladsy. Hierdie projek demonstreer dat parkrun 'n beduidende rol kan speel in die bevordering van volhoubare toerisme deur eko-vriendelike praktyke aan te moedig en gemeenskaps-rentmeesterskap onder deelnemers te bevorder. Deur geleenthede op skilderagtige plekke soos natuurreservate, botaniese tuine en erfenisterreine aan te bied, vestig parkrun die aandag op bewaring en bevorder dit kulturele geleenthede. Deelnemers bly dikwels langer en verken die omliggende streek, bevorder plaaslike ekonomieë en ondersteun klein besighede. Parkrun se etos van inklusiwiteit en vrywilligheid help ook om 'n kultuur van respek en sorg vir natuurlike omgewings te kweek, om te verseker dat die impak van toerisme tot die minimum beperk word. Daarbenewens kan parkrun-geleenthede as 'n platform dien om deelnemers op te voed oor volhoubare praktyke, soos om afval te verminder, openbare vervoer te gebruik en plaaslike bewaringspogings te ondersteun. Hierdie kollektiewe poging verhoog nie net die besoekerservaring nie, maar dra ook by tot die behoud en waardering van pragtige toeristebestemmings.
Boemerang-projek: Vier twintig jaar van Parkruns se krag

16 November 2024

FANIE KRIGE, Solid Stuff Media Agency - Bettysbaai parkrun is 'n perfekte voorbeeld van die internasionale verskynsel wat in 2024 sy twintigste bestaansjaar gevier het en steeds groei en floreer. Van 'n nederige begin met dertien deelnemers by Bushy Park, Londen, het parkrun uitgebrei na miljoene hardlopers by 2 500 plekke in 23 lande...

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Andy Selfe - bewaring is in sy bloed

16 November 2024

ANNE KRUGER, GST korrespondent - Hoe die Alwyn Vintcent, ‘n historiese stoom-sleepboot, by Villiersdorp in die binneland beland is, is ‘n uitsonderlike storie. Die man wat die verskuiwing van die boot gedryf het, is Andy Selfe...

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16 November, 2024 NIëL DU TOIT - In an era where sustainability is paramount, the European Union is taking significant strides to ensure that companies making green claims provide verifiable, science-backed evidence1. This initiative is crucial for holding institutions accountable and ensuring that their contributions to greening and sustainability in tourism are genuine and reliable. Understanding Greenwashing Greenwashing occurs when a company or destination presents itself as sustainable through marketing and advertising, misleading customers into believing their practices are environmentally friendly, while in reality, they are harmful. This deceptive practice undermines genuine sustainability efforts and misleads consumers. Key Allegations by Mr. Baptiste Carrierre-Pradal, Co-Founder of 2BPolicy Mr. Baptiste Carrierre-Pradal, policy director of Sustainability has highlighted several critical points regarding greenwashing: Prevalence of Greenwashing: Half of the sustainability claims by companies and certification schemes amount to greenwashing. Avoiding Vague Claims: Companies must avoid vague overstatements and terms like "sustainable," as these can have different meanings in different contexts. Clarity and Specificity: Claims should be easy to understand and specific, only making assertions that can be substantiated. Science-Backed Evidence: Claims must be based on reliable, comparable, and verifiable information. Focus on Results: The actual results of sustainability efforts are what count, not just the intentions behind them. GST: Measure and Manage As the Founder and CEO of Sustainable Tourism Management System (Pty) Ltd, trading as GST (Go Sustainable Tourism), I, Niël du Toit, would like to summarise our approach and how it aligns with these principles. What is GST? GST is a management method designed for entrepreneurs in the tourism stay industry who are committed to sustainability. Our approach encompasses four key pillars: Conservation: Ethical utilisation of local resources to retain natural and cultural biodiversity. Community: Involvement of locals in management and employment. Customer: Guidelines for the visitor target market. Company: Ensuring the profitability of the business. Each pillar includes relevant questions reflecting management objectives, which are annually revised for statistical validity. Entrepreneurs manage their businesses according to these standards, and an assessor verifies the management standards using an internationally accepted audit format. Verification audits are conducted every second year. The Value of Verification Verification is a crucial part of our management method. It involves establishing facts in relation to proposed criteria in a questionnaire format, answering the question: "How do you know it actually happened?" For example, in a cookie factory, a manager reviews production records to confirm that the cookies were baked to the specified temperature. Similarly, in GST, we specify management criteria as a set of questions, and the assessor reviews the answers to confirm the actual facts. Certification If satisfied, the GST member’s factual standard of management is confirmed through a confidential report to the owner, a public management report, and a formal Certificate. The GST logo, certificate, and public report can be used for marketing, showcasing the business’s genuine commitment to sustainability. By adhering to these rigorous standards, GST ensures that our members’ sustainability claims are credible, verifiable, and truly contribute to a greener future.
Ensuring Verifiable Green Claims in Tourism

16 November 2024

NIëL DU TOIT - In an era where sustainability is paramount, the EU is taking significant strides to ensure that companies making green claims provide verifiable, science-backed evidence. This initiative is crucial for ensuring that contributions to sustainability in tourism are genuine...

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16 November, 2024 FANIE KRIGE, Solid Stuff Media Agency - Pringlebaai raak nou ‘n kulinêre kookpunt, met gevierde kokke en eksklusiewe uiteetondervindings. Hulle het onlangs ‘n outentieke Italisaanse fees aangebied toe die Pringle Proms ‘n wêreldbekende kulinêre ster, Enrica Rocca, vir ‘n eendaggeleentheid verwelkom het. Bekend vir haar Italiaanse kookskole in Londen en Vensesië, het Rocca (ook bekend as die Cooking Countess), haar ster-kwaliteit na Pringlebaai gebring. Rocca het goeie resensies ontvang van gesogte publikasies soos Gourmet, Vogue en The Financial Times. Haar 2014-boek, Venice on a Plate: But what a Plate!, het twee internasionale Gourmand Cookbook-toekennings gewen. Gebore in die Venesiese aristokrasie, is Rocca se liefde vir kos van kleins af gekoester. Sy het haar vaardighede geslyp by die gesogte hotelbestuurskool in Lausanne, Switserland, en haar kulinêre reis het haar oor die wêreld geneem-van Switserland tot Soedan, Suid-Afrika, Londen en Venesië. Nou terug is Kaapstad deel Rocca haar passie. Sy het gedemonstreer hoe om ‘n antipasti gereg aan mekaar te sit met ‘n verskeidenheid brode, gebraaide groente, souse, olywe, koue vleise en kaas. Die middagete-spyskaart het ingesluit Conchiglioni Farciti (groot pastaskulpe gevul met ricotta, kruie en suurlemoenskil gebak in ‘n tamatiesous), Hoender Scalopini met wit wyn, suurlemoen en kappertjiesaad, en vir nagereg, haar klassieke Rocca Tiramisu en gekarameliseerde vrugte. Hierdie intieme en eksklusiewe ondervinding, beperk tot 10 gaste, het ingesluit ‘n Italiaanse mengeldrankie, wyn, ete, en koffie van 11:00 tot 15:00. Vroeër, in Oktober, het 30 mense byeengekom in Pringlebaai vir Brian Berkman se Pringle Proms noenmaal en ‘n treffende gesprek met kook-ikoon Ina Paarman. Die geleentheid het ingesluit ‘n middagete voorberei uit Paarman se nuwe boek, My Favourite Recipes, insluitend Gebraaide Tamatiesop en Hummus met uie en brode; Aarbeie en Geroosterde Soetrissieslaai, Macadamia-neut Bobotie, Gebakte Lemoenhoender met Spykerrys, en vir nagereg, Sjokoladekoekies en Rooi Fluweelkoek met bessies en room. Kos en kulinêre ervarings speel 'n deurslaggewende rol in volhoubare toerisme deur 'n diep, outentieke verband tussen reisigers en hul bestemmings te skep. Deur plaaslike kookkuns uit te lig, kan volhoubare toerisme die behoud van tradisionele resepte en kookmetodes bevorder, deur plaaslike boere, vissers en ambagsmanne te ondersteun wat die bestanddele produseer. Dit dra op sy beurt by tot die plaaslike ekonomie en verminder die koolstof-voetspoor wat met die invoer van voedsel geassosieer word. Kulinêre toerisme moedig toeriste aan om by plaaslike restaurante te eet, kosmarkte te besoek en aan kookklasse deel te neem, wat ekonomiese voordele aan klein besighede bied en 'n gevoel van gemeenskap bevorder. Boonop behels voedseltoerisme dikwels die opvoeding van besoekers oor volhoubare praktyke, soos plaas-tot-tafel-etes, die gebruik van seisoenale en organiese bestanddele en die vermindering van voedselvermorsing. Dit verbeter nie net die besoekerservaring nie, maar bevorder ook 'n breër begrip en waardering van omgewingsbewaring. Deur plaaslike voedselerfenis te vier en te bewaar, help volhoubare kulinêre toerisme om kulturele diversiteit te handhaaf en moedig die beskerming van natuurlike hulpbronne aan, om te verseker dat toekomstige geslagte dieselfde outentieke geure en ervarings kan geniet.
Pringlebaai: Opwindende gashere vir eksklusiewe kookkuns-geleenthede

16 November 2024

FANIE KRIGE, Solid Stuff Media Agency - Pringlebaai raak nou ‘n kulinêre kookpunt, met gevierde kokke en eksklusiewe uiteetondervindings. Hulle het onlangs ‘n outentieke Italisaanse fees aangebied...

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ANNE KRUGER. GST korrespondent - Die Cape Leopard Trust (CLT) is nie sommer enige roofdierwerkgroep nie - dit is 'n baken van hoop vir die majestueuse luiperds van die fynbosberge! Met 'n visie so groot soos die berge self, is die CLT toegewyd om die langtermyn-oorlewing van luiperdbevolkings te verseker, hul habitatte te beveilig en harmonieuse saambestaan met mense te bevorder. Sedert sy ontstaan in 2004 het die CLT prominensie verwerf as 'n leidende gesag oor roofdierbewaring in die Kaap en regoor Suid-Afrika. Hierdie dinamiese, nie-regeringsorganisasie sonder winsbejag is aan die voorpunt van innoverende navorsings-, bewarings- en opvoedingsprojekte wat alles daarop gemik is om ons planeet se biologiese diversiteit te bewaar. Die CLT se span is klein maar magtig - hoogs toegewyd, opgevoed en vol entoesiasme; hulle is oor verskeie projekareas versprei, wat 'n beduidende impak maak. Hoekom die Luiperd? Luiperds (Panthera pardus) is die mees wydverspreide van die groot katte, met 'n historiese verspreidingsgebied wat oor 'n groot deel van Afrika en Eurasië strek. Hierdie ongelooflike wesens is die toonbeeld van veelsydigheid, en floreer in habitatte wat wissel van beendroë woestyne tot welige oerwoude en rotsagtige kranse. Hulle jag 'n groter verskeidenheid prooi as enige ander groot karnivoor en kan selfs naby bedrywige stede floreer. Hierdie ontwykende roofdier staar egter ernstige uitdagings in die gesig. ’n Omvattende onlangse studie het aan die lig gebring dat luiperds wêreldwyd sowat 75% van hul historiese verspreidingsgebied verloor het. In Suider-Afrika het luiperds ook dramatiese sametrekkings ervaar, nou hoofsaaklik beperk tot die ruwe bergagtige gebiede van die Noord-, Wes- en Oos-Kaap. As die top-roofdier in die fynbosberge speel luiperds 'n deurslaggewende rol in die instandhouding van die berg-ekosisteem. Hulle reguleer prooigetalle en beïnvloed die oorvloed, gedrag en digthede van kleiner roofdiere. In hierdie sin is die luiperd 'n "sambreelspesie" - die bewaring van luiperds is noodsaaklik vir die bewaring van ander plaaslike spesies en hul prooibasis. Die luiperds se berghabitat dien ook as 'n noodsaaklike wateropvanggebied vir stedelike en landbougebruik. Die bewaring van luiperds lei dus tot breër habitatbewaring, wat die hele ekosisteem bevoordeel. Die behoefte aan luiperdnavorsing Studies het getoon dat Kaapse luiperds morfologies en geneties verskil van hul eweknieë elders in Suider-Afrika. Tuisgebiede in die studiegebiede kan tot 10 keer groter wees as wat voorheen gerapporteer is, wat aandui dat bevolkingsgetalle baie laer is as wat geskat is. As gevolg van hierdie lae digthede, groot tuisgebiede en beperkte geskikte habitat, kan Kaapse luiperds meer bedreig wees as baie ander luiperdbevolkings. Dr Quinton Martins, medestigter van die Cape Leopard Trust, het sy studie van luiperds in die Cederberge in 2003 begin. Toe hy deur hierdie majestueuse en ruwe berge stap, het hy tekens van luiperds gevind, maar was geskok oor hoeveel onnodig doodgemaak is. Toe hy die dringende behoefte aan verandering besef het, het hy alles wat hy besit het verkoop om sy werk te finansier. Sy toewyding het vrugte afgewerp toe hy Johan van der Westhuizen, natuurbewaarder-grondeienaar van Bakkrans-wilderniskonsessie in die Cederberge ontmoet het, wat die eerste finansiële steun verleen het. Sedertdien het die Cape Leopard Trust van krag tot krag gegaan, met kernprojekte in die Cederberge en Boland, en navorsingsgebiede wat die Klein-Karoo, Noord-Kaap Namakwaland-streek en Tafelberg Nasionale Park insluit. Die gebruik van moderne tegnologie, soos afstandswaarnemingskameras en GPS-satellietopsporingstoestelle, het merkwaardige insigte in die ekologie van hierdie ontwykende diere verskaf. Navorsing word gedoen op beide CapeNature se gebied en grond in private besit, met dankbaarheid vir toegang tot hierdie wildernisgebiede. Die Trust se krag word ondersteun deur 'n raad van ses noukeurig geselekteerde Trustees, onder voorsitterskap van Van der Westhuizen, en 'n Wetenskaplike Adviesraad van dierkunde- en karnivoorspesialiste, onder voorsitterskap van professor Bill Horsnell. Volgens Van der Westhuizen is die Kaapse luiperd kleiner as dié wat in die noorde van die land voorkom en speel dit 'n belangrike rol in die beheer van kleiner roofdiere soos die rooikatte en jakkalse. Hy het alle boerdery-aktiwiteite op sy eiendom gestaak en fokus slegs op bewaring. Geboue is gerestoureer vir gebruik as toeristeverblyf. Meer onlangs het hy die Kaapse Bergsebra weer in die gebied ingebring en hoop om 'n Kaapse Bergsebra-reservaat te ontwikkel. Johan was instrumenteel in die ontwikkeling van die volhoubaarheidsoudit van Go Sustainable Tourism, en sy Bakkransplaas is 'n stigterslid. Vir meer, https://redcederberg.co.za .
Cape Leopard Trust: Bewaarder van die berg-roofdier

16 November 2024

ANNE KRUGER, GST Korrespondent - Die Cape Leopard Trust (CLT) is nie sommer enige roofdierwerkgroep nie - dit is 'n baken van hoop vir die majestueuse luiperds van die fynbosbergel...

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29 September 2024 PIET MARAIS, Editor GSTBlog - Located an hour’s drive from Cape Town in the Western Cape province of South Africa, Drakenstein Municipality is not only the country’s top-rated secondary city for good governance, but also boasts the largest economy in the Cape Winelands. Spanning 1 538 km², it includes the historic Winelands towns of Paarl and Wellington as well as 2 380 farms and it is home to 305 281 residents. Awarded one of South Africa’s most financially sound, well-governed, stable and sustainable municipalities, Drakenstein Municipality has since 2011 achieved 16 consecutive unqualified audit opinions from the Auditor-General of South Africa, of which nine were clean audits. Embodying its vision of "a city of excellence", the Municipality prides itself on providing its residents, businesses, investors and visitors with excellent services and well-maintained, advanced infrastructure. It has a proud record of consistently delivering clean potable water and stable electricity services. The Municipality is one of only 22 wastewater systems out of 850 in South Africa to be awarded Green Drop status. Drakenstein, recognised for having one of the highest growth potentials in the province, is perfectly situated for investment, development, and business expansion. The Municipality has been investing substantially in infrastructure to make new business happen. Today it is a thriving manufacturing hub with a well-developed road network and a skilled workforce. As a progressive business and investment region and a city geared for growth, it constantly attracts new development. As South Africa’s first self-declared Fair Trade City, Drakenstein Municipality is serious about building a sustainable future, and has garnered recognition and various awards for its commitment to sustainable and environmentally conscious practices. Finally, Drakenstein guarantees a quality lifestyle and an attractive, authentic tourism offering - from its beautiful natural scenery, rich cultural and architectural heritage, top achiever schools, esteemed lifestyle estates, pristine golf courses, and assortment of cycling, running, and hiking trails, to its acclaimed wines and inspired farm-to-table cuisine, and friendly, welcoming people. Picture below: Ms. Cheryl Phillips is the Senior Manager for Economic Growth and Tourism at Drakenstein Municipality
About the Drakenstein Municipality

29 September 2024

PIET MARAIS, Editor GSTBlog - Located an hour’s drive from Cape Town in the Western Cape province of South Africa, Drakenstein Municipality is not only the country’s top-rated secondary city for good governance, but also boasts the largest economy in the Cape Winelands...

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29 September 2024 PIET MARAIS, Editor GSTBlog - "Fair trade has the power to transform lives, communities and economies," said Councillor Stephen Korabie, Executive Mayor of Drakenstein Municipality. "Obtaining Fair Trade City status has been a significant milestone in Drakenstein Municipality’s growth and development. It marks our commitment to promoting fair trade practices and supporting local producers in Drakenstein, and ensuring that our community benefits from equitable trade relationships." He was delivering the opening address at the 17th Fair Trade Cities and Towns International Conference in Paarl on Friday, 20 September 2024. Held for the first time on African soil, the conference is taking place at the Nederburg Wine Estate from 20 to 22 September 2024. Leaders and decision makers in the fair trade movement and sustainability sector are gathering to discuss, workshop and network around the theme of "Cultivating Equitable Economies". Welcoming delegates to the conference, Councillor Korabie said: "We acknowledge the tireless efforts of Fair Trade advocates, producers and consumers who drive this movement forward. We look forward to continuing our journey together as we catalyse future growth and development for the benefit of all our citizens." He said the Fair Trade Cities and Towns International Conference aimed to articulate the benefits of adopting the sustainability agenda; promote the positive impact of ethical, fair and sustainable processes; foster engagement between key societal pillars and sustainability pillars; share best practices; and create synergies between cities and countries for local economic development." According to the Executive Mayor, Drakenstein Municipality’s own journey as a Fair Trade City began in 2020. It is the first town in Southern Africa to self-declare as a Fair Trade City and the fourth on the continent. It boasts the largest economy in the Cape Winelands, with a GDP contribution of 32.7%. "Our Fair Trade City campaign focuses on creating sustainable social enterprises; encouraging sustainable, ethical and fair trade practices in businesses; promoting sustainability and fair trade education; encouraging consumer sustainability practices; and promoting triple bottom-line enterprises (profit, environmental and social impact)," he said. "As we move forward, we envision a city that is vibrant, inclusive and sustainable, and that leaves no one behind. We believe that sustainability is part of our DNA. As a city we offer opportunities for all, foster innovation and entrepreneurship, and we are a hub for economic growth and development," the Executive Mayor concluded.
Drakenstein committed to local producers

29 September 2024

PIET MARAIS, Editor GSTBlog - "Fair trade has the power to transform lives, communities and economies," said Councillor Stephen Korabie, Executive Mayor of Drakenstein Municipality. "Obtaining Fair Trade City status has been a significant milestone in Drakenstein Municipality’s growth and development...

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29 September 2024 Die 2024 Fair Trade Cities and Towns-konferensie in die Paarl was 'n belangrike gebeurtenis, wat die eerste keer was dat dit op die Afrika-kontinent gehou is. Die konferensie, aangebied deur die Drakenstein-munisipaliteit by die Nederburg-wynlandgoed, het gefokus op die bevordering van billike handelspraktyke en volhoubare ontwikkeling onder die tema "Kweek van billike ekonomieë" Die geleentheid word breedvoerig gedek in die September-uitgawe van die munisipale nuusbrief Vars. Sleutel-hoogtepunte het ingesluit: - Openingstoespraak deur Roopa Mehta, president van die World Fair Trade Organisation, wat die samewerking tussen Drakenstein Munisipaliteit en die streeknetwerk geloof het. - Besprekings oor hoe volhoubaarheidsbewegings tot Afrika-ekonomieë kan bydra, met sprekers soos Hisham El Gazzar van Egipte. '- n Betoging deur plaaswerkers wat deurlopende kwessies met werk- en lewensomstandighede op plaaslike plase uitlig. Die geleentheid het ten doel gehad om gemeenskappe te bemagtig en volhoubare ontwikkeling te ondersteun deur billike lone en ordentlike werksomstandighede vir produsente in ontwikkelende lande te verseker .
Fair Trade Cities and Towns-konferensie eerste vir Afrika

29 September 2024

DIE 2024 FAIR Trade Cities and Towns-konferensie in die Paarl was 'n belangrike gebeurtenis, wat die eerste keer was dat dit op die Afrika-kontinent gehou is...

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