Reflections on 2024 | The Kariega Foundation

16Feb

Community Updates, Conservation Updates

community, conservation, rhino protection

(no comments)

The Kariega Foundation Trust works in partnership with Kariega Game Reserve on the conservation of the Kariega wilderness, which is part of the INDALO Protected Environment and the upliftment of neighbouring communities that share in this natural heritage.

Rooted in the principles of environmental management; protection of endangered species, education, and sustainable community development, the Foundation implements innovative programmes that bridge the gap between people and nature, building a conservation minded community that works together to protect, preserve and benefit our people, planet and wildlife forever.

Through practical conservation efforts, community-driven projects, and initiatives like youth sports and environmental education, the Foundation equips individuals with the tools to actively contribute to the preservation of their natural heritage.

This holistic approach ensures that conservation is not just a concept but a lived reality, fostering resilience for both people and the environment. The Kariega Foundation is a powerful example of how dedicated efforts can create lasting impacts in protecting natural resources and uplifting communities.

“Alone, we can do so little; together, we can do so much” – Helen Keller

Words cannot fully express our gratitude to our partners and every guest visiting Kariega Game Reserve who contributed to our efforts through the conservation and community donation levy; and individuals who have 'packed for a purpose' or offered their time and expertise. Your support has been invaluable. We could not have achieved this without you. Thank you for being an integral part of the Kariega Foundation. 

Together we protect 11500 ha of biodiversity; home to over 1250 species of which 75 carry a protection status with 11 endangered and critically endangered species; and we support over 3500 community beneficiaries.

2024 Highlights at a Glance

Early Childhood Development (ECD)

• Supported 10 registered ECD centres and 5 unregistered centres across Ekuphumleni, Marselle, and Klipfontein communities.
• Established the Liggerman Educational Centre, built through the Kariega Foundation and funded by Save The Children Foundation via  Helping Rhinos.
• Provided education for 1,002 children and supported 40 staff members across these centres.

Community Welfare

Donated:

• 1,020 kg of stationery to schools.
• 400 fleece blankets were distributed to children, elderly, and individuals with special needs.
• 350 kg of sports clothing and other items.
• 61 kg of shoes for 42 children (aged 2-9).
• Groceries, clothing, and education to three girls sponsored by a guests who visited Kariega Game Reserve.

Youth and Sports Development

• 21 netball and soccer teams with 400+ participants.
• 600+ sessions, including 100 CoolPlay and 100 Ubuntu Cup matches.
• 10 dancers trained in hospitality and job-seeking skills.

Education and IT

• The Social and Emotional Learning programme expanded to 23 periods (Nompucuko) and 28 periods (Ekuphumleni) per week.
• A second Library Computer Hub in Marselle, was added to the Ekuphumleni’s Library Computer Hub, providing access to 30 community computers and two full time IT Facilitators.
• 22 learners have joined the first coding club.
• Supported Grade 12 students with tertiary applications.

Gardens

• Supported 9 gardens in 2 communities with 70 registered kids.
• Used Kariega Conservation Centre (KCC) training garden for education.

Animal Welfare

• Sterilized 116 animals and treated 322 animals at planned events.
• Donated 25 dog houses and provided vet care for approximately 20 injured dogs.

Alien Vegetation Control 

• Alien Plant Control team cleared 310.71 hectares of alien invasive plants.
• Volunteers removed 6,275 alien invasive plants, significantly contributing to environmental health.

Community-Based Field Guide Training Program

• 2 x students completed the full qualification and were awarded intern positions at Kariega Game Reserve.
• Kariega Game Reserve, now employs 3 Field Guides from our local community.

Community-Based Field Ranger (APU) Training Program

• 11 field ranger cadets from 4 reserves in the region completed the program with 4 currently doing their internship at Kariega Game Reserve.

Top Milestones and Memories of 2024

The Liggerman Education Centre

In 2024, the Kariega Foundation in partnership with Helping Rhinos and Save A Child foundation proudly completed its first Early Childhood Development (ECD) legacy centre—The Liggerman Education Centre. Set to open its doors in 2025, this centre represents more than just a school; it is a community-driven initiative built on partnership, dedication, and a shared vision for the future.

The Liggerman Education Centre was born from a simple yet powerful need—a mother with several children in the Marselle community exhibited the urgent necessity for an early childhood development centre. Upon further investigation, it became clear that many young children in the area lacked a safe haven during the day and access to structured early education.

With the unwavering support of funders, donors, and the local community, the Kariega Foundation helped bring this vision to life. While the foundation has played a key role in facilitating and supporting the project, these centres truly belong to the communities they serve. This sense of ownership fosters pride, sustainability, and long-term success. To further enhance the learning environment, a brand-new jungle gym has been installed, giving children a space to play and develop essential motor skills. Additionally, granadillas will be planted along the fence, adding natural beauty to the centre while also serving as a valuable food source.

Located in the heart of the Marselle community, The Liggerman Education Centre welcomes 40 children between the after of 1 to 4, many of whom have never attended school before. This marks the first legacy ECD project by the Kariega Foundation, with plans already underway for a second centre.

To ensure the long-term success of the centre, ongoing improvements to the infrastructure will need to be made, creating a safe and nurturing learning space. Additionally, the training of staff will remain a priority, equipping educators with the skills needed to provide high-quality, age-appropriate learning experiences for young children.

The Liggerman Education Centre stands as a testament to what is possible when a community comes together to invest in its future.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Helping Rhinos and Save A Child Foundation for their invaluable support in making The Liggerman Education Centre a reality. A special thank you to the Lightley family for their generous assistance in building the jungle gym, providing the children with a safe and joyful space to play and grow. This project is a true testament to the power of collaboration, and we are deeply grateful to everyone who contributed to creating a brighter future for the Marselle community.

Social Emotional Learning (SEL)

Research has shown that social emotional learning is a fundamental building block in education and development. It allows for healthy relationships, mental wellness which go hand in hand with improved academic performance. Our goal is to nurture and support every aspect of a child’s development — from their health and well-being to their curious and compassionate minds.

For the first time, the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) programme was integrated into both schools’ timetables from the start of the year, marking a major milestone in its implementation. This ensured dedicated teaching times and regular, uninterrupted sessions, a significant improvement from previous years. Six Youth Development Practitioners (YDPs) facilitated the programme, with three assigned to each school, allowing for consistent engagement and structured lesson delivery.

One of the standout achievements this year was strengthened collaboration with educators. YDPs delivered SEL presentations to teachers, fostering better understanding and support for the programme. This engagement helped solidify SEL as a vital part of the learning experience.

Additionally, the programme saw a significant increase in teaching time, with Nompucuko Primary allocating 23 periods per week and Ekuphumleni Primary dedicating 28 periods—a substantial commitment to the students’ emotional and social development. This structured schedule allowed YDPs to complete the SEL competencies and CoolToBeMe curriculum, demonstrating the growing recognition of the programme’s value by educators, principals, and schools.

Another game-changer was the introduction of journals and workbooks, which significantly improved both lesson delivery and student engagement. These tools provided a structured approach to learning, helping YDPs track the progress and apply SEL concepts in meaningful ways.

Building on this year’s progress, the focus in 2025 will be on strengthening programme delivery and impact. Greater emphasis will be placed on improving the quality of reports written by YDPs, ensuring they reflect detailed insights and measurable outcomes. YDPs will also refine their lesson plans to better align with the curriculum and activities outlined in the manuals, making learning more structured and impactful. Strengthening collaboration with educators and school leadership will be a priority to ensure greater buy-in and active participation in the programme. Additionally, efforts will be made to enhance learner assessment methods, introducing an improved system to track each student’s progress and development more effectively. By addressing these areas, the SEL programme will continue to evolve, providing students with essential skills to navigate their personal and academic journeys successfully.

Sport Development  

Sport not only plays a vital role in physical fitness in these communities, but also helps shape skillsets such as teamwork, social skills, problem solving, leadership, building confidence and discipline. Playing sport also gives children somewhere to go after school when there is no one at home to take care of them in the afternoons.

Our goal is to engage youth in healthy, productive activities that promote personal well-being, foster character development, and drive positive social change. We aim to equip them with the skills and mindset needed to grab the opportunities presented to them or create their own opportunities, in an environmentally responsible way.

This year brought outstanding achievements in sports, displaying the talent and dedication of our athletes and coaches. Two netball players were selected for the Sarah Baartman regional team, with Noma Ngangqu, our very own Foundation Community Manager, appointed as head coach, and Olwethu Sizani as assistant coach. In tennis, four players earned spots on the 2025 Eastern Cape team, with one qualifying for the U-15 first team. Additionally, 35 players took part in the Keep Active Development trials, with 12 advancing to the final camp and 11 securing places on the Denmark team for 2025. These accomplishments highlight the incredible growth of our sports programmes and the dedication of our athletes, coaches, and supporters.

Thank you to Phil and Trish Liggett and all guests who join our Freedom To Roam Adventures. Donations raised from these events support our SEL and sports programme.

Information technology

The Library Computer Hub Project is a collaboration between The Kariega Foundation, Ndlambe Municipality, and BBD Software Development. The hubs provide access to technology and digital literacy training, especially focused on the youth, helping bridge the digital divide and equip community members with essential skills for education, employment, and participation in the digital economy.

One of our goals for 2024 was to expand access to computer education. Schools have also embraced this opportunity, with Ekuphumleni booking lessons for learners in the Technology subject and Ikamvalesizwe integrating lessons for Grade 12 students. A dedicated group of 22 learners have started attending computer lessons and have become the first members of our coding club. They are occasionally joined by matric students who show an interest in programming. To further strengthen this initiative, our Youth Development Practitioners (YDPs) received coding training at Tangible Africa, supported by BBD, which also provided coding kits to enhance learning experiences.

We successfully launched our first IT internship through the Umuzi Learnership, sponsored by BBD. Additionally, we developed a structured IT pathway, guiding learners from basic computer skills to coding, robotics, and internships. The CAPS curriculum has been adapted to include Coding and Robotics, helping schools prepare students for a technology-driven future. To enhance practical learning, we established a virtual simulated technology lab, providing hands-on experience for students. Looking ahead to 2025, we are set to expand the IT Coding and Robotics pathway, incorporating schools, communities, and computer hubs to ensure widespread access to these critical skills.

A wholehearted thank you to Khaya, our dedicated Youth Development Practitioner (YDP) team, Noma, Ndlambe Municipality, BBD Software Development, Nompucuko Primary, Ekuphumleni Primary and all our sponsors for your invaluable support. Your commitment to community upliftment and environmental conservation has created lasting positive impacts on both the youth and the broader community.

Legacy Bursary Fund

Luzu Kom successfully completed his PGCE and was accepted into masters in Education Leadership which he will be completing part-time in 2025, fully paid by the Legacy Bursary fund. During 2024 Luzu developed a mentorship programme that he has been running with grade 12 learners from Ikhamvelisizwe and Nompucuko High Schools. The objectives of the programmer were to motivate learners to set goals and improve their marks; assess tertiary education options; learn how to apply to university and NSFAS for state bursaries.

Our second Legacy Bursary student for 2025 is Siya Hlebani who will be completing his honours in journalism and film.
Thank you to Rushmere Noach and partners and Finmap for supporting this fund and these exceptional students.

Community Skills Development

These programmes embody conservation through community engagement. They not only equip individuals with essential skills but also reconnect communities with nature. As Kariega Game Reserve expands, specialized skills will be increasingly necessary in the surrounding areas. Our proactive approach ensures community members are prepared for emerging opportunities. These programmes serve as steppingstones for career development, allowing individuals to enter the conservation industry and grow according to their interests. Our conservation philosophy extends beyond reserve boundaries, recognising that true conservation is a collaborative effort.

Alien Vegetation Control

In April, two Alien Plant Control (APC) members transitioned to the Anti-Poaching Unit (APU) as Cadet Field Rangers, creating opportunities for two additional youth from the Foundation’s community programmes to join the APC team. The APC team has also played a vital role as the designated ground support for all veterinary procedures on the reserve, gaining invaluable hands-on experience and essential skills in the process. The presence of three experienced permanent staff members has significantly enhanced the onboarding and training of new team members, ensuring they develop the necessary competencies under the guidance of the APC Coordinator.
A heartfelt thank you goes to Frikkie Van Heerden for his instrumental role in the APC programme’s success over the past two years. 

As of March 1st 2025, Frikkie will transition into the well-deserved role of Assistant Reserve Manager, with the Ecological Department’s management team assuming his administrative duties. This transition also opens an opportunity for a senior APC member to step into the foreman role, focusing on mentorship and skills development to uphold the high standards Frikkie has set. His dedication and leadership have been invaluable, and we deeply appreciate his contributions to the programme.

Community-Based Field Ranger (APU) Training Programme

This programme, generously sponsored by Global Conservation Force and Helping Rhinos, is designed to benefit the entire region by supporting both reserves and local communities while utilising available resources. After successfully completing the intensive five-week course, students have the opportunity to undertake a one-year internship at one of seven private, national, or provincial protected areas across the Eastern Cape. During 2024 12 students completed this programme, with four rangers doing their internship at Kariega Game Reserve in 2025.

A sincere thank you to Global Conservation Force and Helping Rhinos for making this programme possible. Their support continues to create opportunities for students to enter conservation careers, contributing to the long-term protection of natural landscapes and wildlife.

Community-Based Field Guide Training Programme

The Kariega Foundation has reached another significant regional milestone. In response to the continuity challenges within the Eastern Cape’s guiding industry—and the employment opportunities these challenges present for local communities, the Foundation launched a comprehensive training programme in January 2024. Despite the complexity of developing lesson plans for 17 modules, many of which introduce new subject matter and practical skills to the candidates, the programme has already delivered promising results, with two Field Guide interns produced

Special recognition goes to Jumbo Williams for his exceptional dedication, which resulted in a 100% success rate in theoretical assessments for the inaugural CBFG training group. His commitment and expertise have played a crucial role in the success of this programme, setting a strong foundation for future participants.

Domestic Animal care

The Kariega Foundation's sterilisation and outreach events aim to improve the welfare of animals in local communities by providing essential veterinary care, including sterilisation, vaccinations, and treatment for common ailments. These events not only address immediate health concerns but also promote responsible pet ownership and long-term community engagement.

In 2024, we hosted two major sterilisation events in Ekuphumleni, sterilising and treating animals. These efforts were supported by the Kariega Foundation and the Periwinkle Trust. Additionally, outreach events were done in Alexandria in collaboration from Medivet, Ikhala Vet Clinic, and Global Conservation Force.

• Sterilised 116 animals and treated 322 animals at planned events.
• Donated 25 dog houses and provided vet care for approximately 20 injured dogs.

A huge thank you to Jo; our dedicated volunteers under the leadership of Jaco and Mali, and all those involved in making our sterilisation and outreach events a success. Special thanks to Medivet, Ikhala Vet Clinic, and Global Conservation Force and Dancing For Rhinos for your invaluable support in improving animal welfare in local communities. Your dedication and collaboration are deeply appreciated—thank you!

Wildlife Protection Beyond Borders

The Kariega Game Reserve Anti-Poaching Unit (APU) is tasked with the critical responsibility of protecting the reserve’s wildlife and ecosystems, ensuring the safety of its white and black rhino populations, as well as other vulnerable species. While the reserve remains the APU’s primary duty, our work extends beyond its borders, as conservation cannot be confined to a fenced area. We actively collaborate with surrounding communities, law enforcement, and conservation organisations to address illegal activities that threaten people, wildlife and natural resources beyond Kariega’s boundaries.

On the reserve, the APU is committed to prevent trespassing, meat poaching, and rhino poaching by maintaining strong boundaries and responding quickly to any incursions. Equipped with armed teams, trained field rangers, and advanced technology, including drones and K9 units, the APU conducts proactive patrols on foot, by vehicle, boat, and through aerial surveillance, ensuring comprehensive coverage of the reserve.

The APU’s role extends far beyond patrolling the Kariega Game Reserve—it is about ensuring that conservation efforts positively impact the surrounding communities and natural areas as well. By combining advanced technology, strategic partnerships, and proactive enforcement, we remain dedicated to safeguarding all protected environments.

A highlight of 2024 has been the efforts is the protection of abalone, a highly prized marine species that plays a crucial role in maintaining the health of coastal ecosystems. Abalone populations have been severely impacted by illegal harvesting, driven by high black-market demand, which not only threatens marine biodiversity but also undermines local economies that rely on sustainable fishing. By partnering with SAPS the APU assisted in a special abalone operations, leading to arrests.

A sincere thank you to Daniel and the APU team for their relentless efforts in protecting not only Kariega’s wildlife but also the greater ecosystem. Your work is essential in preserving the delicate balance of nature for future generations, and we deeply appreciate your passion, resilience, and dedication!

Rhino Protection is a team effort. Thank you to Hikvision; 4Dignity.e.V; PARCA; Helping Rhinos; Rhino Tears; Dancing For Rhinos; Chipembere Rhino Foundation; Global Conservation Force; Wildlife Protection Solutions; Veldskoen; Finmap and so many more.

A Special Thank You.

To our dedicated staff – the heart and soul of everything we do. Your unwavering commitment, boundless creativity, and tireless efforts make the magic happen every day. You go above and beyond, always finding new ways to reach out, create impact, and turn ideas into action. Your passion and perseverance are truly inspiring, and we are endlessly grateful for all that you do.

An exceptional thank you also goes to our generous funders, donors, and supporters: 

• Ashia Cheetah Conservation Trust
• African Rhino Conservation Centre
• BBD software
• Bring the Elephants Home
• Catholic Church – Bushmans River
• Child Welfare
• Coastal Kindness
• Dancing for Rhino
• FINMAP
• Global Conservation Force
• Helping Rhinos
• Ikhala Vet Clinic
• Kenton Methodist Church
• Kenton Rotary Club
• Medivet
• PARCA
• Port Alred Rotary club
• Rhino Tears
• Save a Child Foundation
• Vets Go Wild
• Wild Care Conservation Safari’s
• Wildlife Protection Solutions (WPS)
• WWF (BRREP)
• 4 Dignity

Your belief in our mission and your invaluable contributions make our work possible. Whether through resources, time, or encouragement, your support fuels our efforts and amplifies our impact.  Together, we are making a difference. Thank you for being part of this journey.

Message from our CEO - Lindy Sutherland 

At the Kariega Foundation, we believe conservation and community are inseparable. This year, we’ve strengthened our efforts to protect nature, empower communities, and create opportunities for future generations - Conservation Through Community.

Community welfare remains central, with donations enabling us to distribute essentials like clothing, shoes, and school supplies, while programs like computer hubs, environmental education, and permaculture gardens equip children and adults with vital skills.
Animal welfare initiatives, including sterilisation and outreach events, have improved the lives of hundreds of animals and strengthened community bonds. Cultural and youth programs, such as the Boma Dancers and Ubuntu League, celebrate heritage while building confidence and skills among our youth.

These achievements are possible thanks to the incredible support of our donors, partners, and communities. Together, we are creating a legacy of conservation and upliftment for future generations.

With gratitude,
Lindy Sutherland