Recognising that community involvement is critical for the success of tourism and conservation initiatives, the Isibindi Africa collection of lodges has opened a new conservation centre that simultaneously acts as a skills development platform.

The Isibindi Foundation, which runs a number of conservation and community beneficiation projects at the collection’s three lodges in KwaZulu Natal and one on the Zambezi River in Zimbabwe, recently opened the Mphoswa Isibindi Community Conservation Centre in the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park.

The educational hub is dedicated to cultivating a deeper understanding of conservation among the residents of the surrounding Mpembeni community.

“The centre consists of interactive exhibits and presentations that unravel the intricate tapestry of conservation within our protected areas, fostering a love for nature and a sense of environmental responsibility,” said Luke Martin, GM of the Isibindi Foundation.

Guests at Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge in the park are also afforded the opportunity to visit the centre during their stay, learning about conservation successes such as Hluhluwe-iMfolozi’s Operation Rhino, which planted the seeds for the recovery of populations of White rhinos from around 50 individuals to more than 20 000 in 2010.

“The centre serves as a place where our guests obtain a deeper understanding of the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park, as well as the pioneering involvement of the Mpembeni community in the establishment of Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge,” said Martin.

As part of the foundation’s commitment to comprehensive skills development, the centre is also home to a computer training facility for the community, with the opportunity to enrol in an accredited computer literacy course with partners Skills Wise.