~by Dimakatso Nonyane
Project Manager: Lower Blyde Restoration Project
On 17 and 18 November, we had the distinct pleasure of welcoming one of our key funders from OneTree Planted to visit the AFR 100-Assisted Natural Regeneration Project in the landscape. This important partnership is helping transform degraded landscapes by clearing invasive alien plants and supporting the return of indigenous vegetation.
The visit was a powerful affirmation of the work being done on the ground and the positive social, economic and ecological impact it continues to make.
Unlike conventional tree-planting models, our project focuses on assisted natural regeneration (ANR) a science-led approach that removes invasive alien plants to allow indigenous vegetation to regenerate naturally.
Our funder was deeply impressed with how this model works in practice. Seeing first-hand how cleared areas are already showing major signs of indigenous regrowth brought home the value of supporting nature’s own regenerative capacity.
Crucially, restoration in Kruger to Canyons isn’t just about ecology it’s about people. Clearing teams are drawn from local communities and the funder got to interact with these young individuals to get their perspective on the changes they see since the inception of the project in 2022. The OneTree planted was also glad to see that the project provides meaningful employment and skills development because the team members had now advanced to clear AIP in intermediate levels.
Another interesting fact for our funders was how the invasive biomass provides communities with firewood and other usable material that would otherwise go to waste, and the rehabilitated sites provide meaningful rangelands for the local community.
As we continue with the current phase of the ANR project, we are motivated by the encouragement of our funders and the visible progress in the field. The natural regeneration approach rooted in strong science, local participation, and ecosystem knowledge showcases how landscape restoration can deliver real ecological and social benefits.
We extend our gratitude to OneTree Planted, AFR 100, and all relevant partners. Together, we’re proving that restoration done right brings tangible results for people and nature alike.
FUNDERS/PARTNERS: OneTree Planted; CSA; Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency; Department of Forestry Fisheries and Environment