The Healthy Catchment Alliance: building inclusive eco-economies within strategic water source areas of one of the most biodiverse countries in the world

There has been a considerable effort by governmental agencies, NGOs and Community-Based Organisations to research, develop and implement various inclusive eco-economy models in southern Africa. Sustainable enterprises that... [ view full abstract ]

There has been a considerable effort by governmental agencies, NGOs and Community-Based Organisations to research, develop and implement various inclusive eco-economy models in southern Africa. Sustainable enterprises that grow local economies – while protecting natural capital – are critical to the future of a country such as South Africa. Excellent results have been achieved through wildlife ecotourism, beekeeping, mariculture, adventure and cultural tourism and the National Working for Water Programme as examples of eco-economic opportunities. However, there is still a lot to be done to embed this inclusive philosophy into the marketplace and make it truly viable for local communities to transition from unemployment to conventional wage-based jobs to economic opportunities in which they can develop and prosper while at the same time, ensuring that catchments are protected and well managed. Causes of some of the major failings of such initiatives in the region have been a lack of on-going support mentorship, solid market linkages and logistical support beyond initial investment.

The Healthy Catchment Alliance is a partnership between three local South African conservation organisations the Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT), Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa (WESSA) and Conservation South Africa (CSA). The Alliance works through leveraging off the skill sets of a range of multi-sectoral organisations to solve complex and interlinked problems. Through this partnership, we have secured over 20 000ha of catchment under improved management and formal protection. We have 16 Eco-Schools engaged throughout the region and 68 educators trained in environmental curricula to build a strong base of environmentally-conscious youth. We have focussed much attention of our on bringing youth and women into the eco-economy by providing relevant training and making sustainable livelihood opportunities available in a number of innovative ways. The value of the Healthy Catchment Alliance partnership is exemplified by it replicability and scalability. This is a long-term strategy for natural resource management and the development of these inclusive eco-enterprises around that.