Community Partnership
The developers of the Hopewell Conservation Estate have ensured that the entire project is both environmentally and socially sustainable.
The Hopewell Conservation Trust (established in March 2010) is a ground-breaking social contract between the developers and the neighbouring KwaNobuhle community. It has paved the way towards a collaborative partnership benefitting both groups. KwaNobuhle is situated along the Reserve's far north-western boundary.
The developers of the Hopewell Conservation Estate believe in the importance of maintaining cultural and natural heritage, and as such, have set aside a special heritage zone between the Hopewell Nature Reserve and the first row of residences.
Plans for the heritage zone include a nursery for the propagation and cultivation of traditional medicinal plants, a permanent initiation park, as well as a play area for local children and an environmental education facility. Together, these initiatives are planned to form the basis of a Xhosa cultural heritage centre, focussing on the role of nature in Xhosa society.
Senior community representatives are overseeing the development and management of the heritage park, supported by Mncedisi Sitoto, Hopewell’s Community Liaison Manager.
Other partners in these social investment initiatives include the Uitenhage & Despatch Development Initiative (UDDI) and the Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa (WESSA).
Partnerships