Jabulani Safari, in the Kapama Private Game Reserve, has employed carers from its surrounding community for South Africa’s first dedicated elephant nursery that it is in the process of opening.

According to media co-ordinator Lerissa van Biljon these carers will assist with the raising and well-being of the elephants calves.

“Our carers are nurturers, assisting and guiding the orphans to fit into the natural dynamics of the new social structure at the Jabulani herd,” she said. “Elephant carers spend 24 hours in the company of the orphans.”

Assistants for the carers are also appointed from the local community, said Van Biljon.

“Additionally, we have a community project for our housekeepers with the goal of uplifting women by teaching embroidery skills specifically focusing on the welfare of wildlife as a theme.”

Another programme that was fast gaining ground was the aquaponics programme at the lodge.

Upliftment projects, said Van Biljon, were a core part of Jabulani Safari’s ethos, creating a better and sustainable community to the benefit of the local people and the tourism organisation itself.