African Wildlife & Environment Issue 85

F W F N EW ESSLSEAT TLE RA D6 E(R2S0H2 I4P)

With support from the Ford Wildlife Foundation, an exciting agro-ecology project is being implemented by WWF-SA in the area where a new Grasslands National Park is to be established. A total of 40 households and two registered co-operatives are the direct beneficiaries of this initiative which kicked off with an intensive, week-long training session, specifically tailored for the small-scale farmers of the Upper Tsitsana community near the town of Nqanqarhu (previously known as Maclear). Most community members rely on farming, particularly livestock and backyard vegetable growing, as their primary source of income. The main goal was to empower the small-scale farmers with simple, accessible, and eco-friendly farming techniques that are both economically viable and environmentally sustainable. At its core, agro-ecology revolves around the harmonious interaction between people, animals, and nature. By embracing these principles, community members not only improve their own lives but also contribute to a safer and more sustainable future for generations to come. Participants from across the generations learnt more about agro-ecology and its relevance in today’s world, as well as the marketing opportunities for organic produce. In addition to training, the farmers were provided with garden tools, vegetable tunnels, organic vegetable seeds, seed trays and organic fertiliser. Many have started growing their own vegetables and are expecting their first harvests early in 2024. AGRO-ECOLOGY PROJECT IN EASTERN CAPE HIGHLANDS

The sponsored FWF Ford Ranger bakkie is constantly in use for site visits as well as for monitoring purposes to track progress. It has been a vital tool for the Grasslands National Park project team, making much of the day-to-day work possible in this rugged landscape where its reliability and dependability is hugely appreciated. CHEETAH CONSERVATION IN MALAWI In 2017, after a 20-year absence Cheetahs were returned to Malawi by the EWT/ African Parks network and Malawi’s Department of Parks and Wildlife. Six years later, 48 cubs have been born in Liwonde National Park and their population is thriving! This success has allowed Liwonde to donate individuals of dispersing age to new sites in Malawi and Mozambique. However, managing the genetics and demographics of small isolated populations makes this work an ongoing process. In December 2023, after months of planning, a massive collaborative effort set out to achieve just this, as our team took to the skies to bring two new females to Malawi and translocate three males back to South Africa. While introducing the females will diversify the population genetics for Liwonde, removing the males will mimic territorial changes and further reduce the risk of inbreeding. Their move to the Greater Makalali Nature Reserve is also a significant step in rebuilding a Cheetah population in South Africa – the original source for Malawi’s growing population.

24 | African Wildlife & Environment | Issue 85 (2024)