By Dr. Thabang Teffo
The Nature-Based Economy (NBE) theme, as outlined in the College’s Strategy 2030, is rooted in the belief that conservation and livelihoods are not mutually exclusive. This thematic area aims to create sustainable economic opportunities that are directly tied to the stewardship of natural ecosystems. Whether through regenerative rangeland management, ethical wildlife utilisation, or ecotourism and guiding, the NBE theme promotes a model where people benefit from protecting nature, while ensuring ecological integrity is upheld.
The Strategy identifies the wildlife-based economy as a crucial area for building inclusive, resilient, and sustainable livelihoods, particularly in rural and conservation-adjacent communities. The SAWC’s investment in this space is demonstrated through multiple programmes – from the development of Professional Hunter and Nature Guide qualifications to the continued growth of the SAWC Herding Academy. Working in collaboration with key partners such as the African Wildlife Economy Institute (AWEI), Peace Parks Foundation, African Leadership University’s School of Wildlife Conservation, and Herding for Health (H4H), the College delivers impactful training and ecosystem restoration initiatives that integrate local culture, economy, and ecology.
A Quarter of Momentum: April to June 2025 Highlights
The past quarter has seen the Nature-Based Economy department take bold strides in training, leadership, and regional partnerships. A highlight of the quarter was planning for the inaugural peer-to-peer learning exchange under the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Wildlife-Based Economy Project, set to take place in the Greater Kruger Landscape from 31 August to 6 September 2025. This initiative aims to facilitate cross-regional learning among Transfrontier Conservation Areas (TFCAs) and strengthen the capacity of member states in implementing nature-based solutions.
In a major representation milestone, Thabang was elected as the International Council for Game and Wildlife Conservation (CIC) Head of National Delegation for South Africa and signed a grant agreement on the College’s behalf during the 71st CIC General Assembly in Doha. Additionally, he led the SAWC’s participation at the SADC TFCA Conference and Summit in Harare, co-hosting a side event on “Unlocking the Potential of Wildlife Economies for Livelihoods and Regional Prosperity” in collaboration with the African Wildlife Economy Institute (AWEI) and African Leadership University (ALU). The event was attended by TFCA focal points and culminated in a symbolic World Biodiversity Day ceremony with high-level diplomatic support.
Scaling Impact on the Ground
On the implementation side, Senior Trainer Pieter Nel collaborated with the Kingfisherspruit Section Ranger on ecological burning strategies and presented the Elephant and Buffalo course to the South African Hunters and Game Conservation Association (SAHGCA). He also assumed the role of Fire Commander on campus. In parallel, the SAWC Herding Academy secured new training opportunities under the Herding for Health (H4H) banner – with sessions confirmed for the Vhembe Biosphere Reserve and Namibia’s Chobe Enclave. The Academy finalised a three-year Service Level Agreement with Peace Parks Foundation to support herder capacity building in Zambia and is actively pursuing a proposal with Conservation South Africa (CSA) for work in Namakwaland.
The team has also prioritised visibility and stakeholder outreach. Pieter participated in the H4H virtual learning forums (commonly known as “brown bag” sessions), while the Regenerative Rangelands Unit (RRU) course was presented to Bushwise students. This was complemented by consistent outreach through social media and published articles.
Building Networks and Sharing Knowledge
Beyond technical training, the NBE department has been central to stakeholder engagements and academic partnerships. Thabang represented the SAWC at both the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) National Committee meeting and the Environmental Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) Collaboration Leaders Meeting. Thabang also jointly hosted South African National Parks (SANParks) and the Culture, Arts, Tourism, Hospitality and Sport Sector Education and Training Authority (CATHSSETA) for a site evaluation alongside the Head of the Occupational Qualifications Pillar.
The SAWC also welcomed a range of international and local visiting groups whose itineraries showcased the College’s focus on applied conservation education, cultural immersion, and stakeholder engagement.
- Grand Valley State University visited from 29 April to 22 May. Their programme was intentionally designed to expose students to various conservation models and challenges. They participated in field research on Marula trees, collecting data, logging GPS points, and reinforcing protective wiring against elephant damage. They also explored land reform issues with community elders in Manyeleti and engaged with Welverdiend residents to better understand local dynamics. Conservation-focused game drives and bush walks were complemented by visits to the Moholoholo Rehabilitation Centre, the Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre, and Timbavati Private Nature Reserve. Their experience culminated with a visit to Eswatini to explore transboundary conservation practices.
- Belgium’s Vives Veterinary Group spent a full day with the K9 Unit, learning about training methodologies, health care, and the dogs’ crucial role in conservation and anti-poaching.
- Southern Utah University engaged with Manyeleti elders on land claim issues and explored the Blyde River Canyon to understand conservation within a cultural and ecological landscape. The ROR Dance Group provided cultural enrichment through traditional dance performances.
- Tarlton State University enjoyed a day with the K9 Unit followed by a guided tour of the ranger camp.
- In June, Warriors for African Wildlife participated in a Dangerous Game Awareness course, including safety protocols and situational training. They also volunteered across departments such as the K9 Unit and Ranger Camp.
- The Katie Adamson Conservation Fund visited from 2–7 June, engaging in rhino dehorning operations and receiving lectures on Responsible Resource Management. Their itinerary also included time with the Airwing, Ranger Camp and K9 Unit, as well as immersive bush walks and game drives.
- San Diego University was hosted from 15–18 June. Their programme focused on conservation awareness through lectures and nature-based experiences that highlighted responsible environmental stewardship.
- The Thompson Family, visiting under the Global Conservation Corporation, spent 17–19 June at the SAWC. Their comprehensive experience included K9 demonstrations, physical training and drill sessions with Ranger Camp trainees, and walks and drives. Notably, they brought three learners from Welverdiend for community outreach “flips” (introductory flights) with the Airwing, broadening local youth exposure to conservation careers.
- To close the month, Good Work Foundation’s Level 1 Guiding Students joined the SAWC from 23–27 June for a focused week of mock assessments in preparation for their final exams in November – reinforcing the College’s role in guiding and ecotourism skills development.
Lastly, the College hosted the South African Wildlife Ecology Training and Research Consortium, convened by Michigan State University, which included researchers from the University of Venda, University of Mpumalanga, University of Pretoria, and Hans Hoheisen Research Station. The NBE team also contributed to the Professional Hunters’ Association of South Africa (PHASA) Strategic Planning Workshop on qualifications, reinforcing the College’s leadership in wildlife-based economy development.