Abstract:
The aim of the study was to examine the public private partnership in
Lekgalammetse Nature Reserve, which was championed by the Limpopo Tourism
Agency under the banner of Limpopo Economic Development Environment and
Tourism Department after the protected land was placed under restitution process.
The purpose of the study was to evaluate whether the partnership which was created
has the capacity to enhance the socio-economic development of the claimants and
the adjacent communities in the area where the nature reserve is situated.
Land restitution process in case of an area declared protected area by law; says that
there will not be physical occupation by the claimants in terms of section 42 of the
Land Restitution Act. Therefore the only way that the claimants can benefit from the
land, is to become land owners and partner in terms of activities that take place in
the protected area for social and economic benefits. A public private partnership was
recognised as a potential vehicle for social, economical and environmental well
being of both parties. However the developmental prospects of the partnership were
unknown and overestimated.
Views from the study as well as the literature review support the assertions that in
this type of land claim, a public private partnership is the best way to go about
developing the claimants and the adjacent communities. The review also highlighted
the importance of a partnership in a protected area and its benefits, especially in
developing the adjacent communities. Thus the role of the community in participating
in their development and of the protected area was the main focus of this study. The
study collected both qualitative and quantitative data using interviews and a
questionnaire.
The study concluded by providing recommendations to stakeholders of
Lekgalameetse Nature Reserve on how to improve their partnership relations. Some
of the recommendations proposed are to involve a private partner to enhance
development in the area; there should be provided with a coordinated and proper
management, develop a capacity building tool to improve the co-management
function and create an environment where all partners are equal in the partnership.
The correct implementation of the Performance Management System will serve as a
means to enhance organizational efficiency, effectiveness and accountability in the
use of resources in accelerating access to good quality services and a better life for
all. A well balanced partnership has a potential to increase community benefits and
maximize the conservation of the biodiversity of the area.
