Socio-economic development

Sustainable biodiversity conservation is inextricably linked with socioeconomic
development, and together with tourism, forms the ‘golden triangle’
described in CapeNature’s strategic approach.

CapeNature aims to achieve the socio-economic objectives it shares with
all other stakeholders in the Western Cape through Community- Based Natural
Resources Management (CBNRM) and Local Economic Development (LED)
initiatives.
Local Economic Development (LED)

This is a process by which public, business and non-governmental sector partners work collectively to create better conditions for economic growth and employment generation, with the aim of improving quality of life for all people. CapeNature aims to be recognised by other LED stakeholders and role players as a significant contributor to local economic development in the Western Cape through the facilitation and rollout of conservation economy projects. The West Coast, Cape Winelands, Central Karoo and Eden District Municipalities have been engaged in ensuring that the conservation-related local economic development initiatives in their respective areas get listed in their Integrated Development Plans for future funding opportunities.
Community-Based Natural Resources Management (CBNRM)

CBNRM is about relationships between people, their institutions, their
livelihoods and natural resources, and has as its objectives:

  • maintaining or improving ecosystem integrity
  • improving the well-being of impoverished people
  • developing the capacity of local people to manage their own natural
  • resources in a sustainable way.

The focus of CBNRM activities has concentrated on:

  • restoration of traditional values and systems whilst relieving pressure on natural resources
  • utilisation of the protected areas for neighbouring community cultural, spiritual and traditional practices
  • utilisation of the protected areas for sustainable harvesting of natural resources
  • increased community participation in the management and enjoyment of the CapeNature Protected Areas.

CapeNature is committed to improving access to protected areas for local communities in order to foster greater conservation consciousness. To this end, CapeNature, through CBNRM forum/reserve liaison committees, is promoting local community involvement in decision-making around the management of natural and heritage resources within and beyond Protected Areas.

Download: Siyabulela Booklet.pdf