After apartheid, South Africa’s Gumbi community reclaimed their land, nearly 45 years after being forcibly removed by colonial settlers, and turned it into the Somkhanda Game Reserve. Rather than divide the land, they embraced community-based tourism, setting aside 74% of the land for conservation. Though the journey faced hurdles, like leadership disputes and financial barriers, partnerships with NGOs and conservation groups helped build skills, attract funding, and create jobs. Today, the reserve is home to the Big Five (lions, elephants, rhinos, buffalo, and leopards) and attracts international tourists. Although not all residents benefit equally, ongoing initiatives such as luxury lodges aim to generate wider gains. The success of Somkhanda offers a blueprint for land restitution through inclusive, sustainable development and environmental stewardship.
The Conversation
