Residents of Manguzi see park as key to survival
COMMUNITY members of Manguzi in the North of Kwazulu-natal said the isimangaliso Wetland Park has become their “government” since it is taking care of the community.
The park has a partnership with an organisation that takes care of the oceans called Wild Oceans.
Nomusa Mthembu, who is an employee at the Wild Oceans hub in Manguzi, said the hub had been the greatest help to the community, especially to its youth and pupils.
Mthembu said the hub was built in 2020 and 40 people were employed.
“When the hub was being built six people from the three communities which benefit from this project were selected in categories carpentry, plumbing and general workers. Those individuals were given tools which they can also use to start their own businesses,” she said.
The three communities which are beneficiaries are Udakha, umalangeni and Nomvula.
The hub has a library and a computer
lab. Mthembu said this helped those who were unemployed to come and send job applications, and make copies for free. She said the pupils used the library often, as well as going there to read.
“The youth between the ages of 18 and 27 are also getting employment opportunities as they currently have 15. The elderly ladies were given sewing machines and received training and they are now able to sew school uniforms and clothes,” said Mthembu.
She said since they had no electricity in the area, the hub was of great help. “We no longer need to travel to town and pay a R100 fee to make copies,” she said.
Victor Ngubane, a resident in the community, said in years past they disliked the park. However he said now things were different because as a community they have a relationship with the park, including with CEO Sibusiso Bukhosini, who comes to talk to them.
“We have roads now and I was part of that project and as a resident I am grateful,” said Ngubane.
Another community member, who did not want to be named, said they were happy but need electricity.
“I would like for our kids to also watch television. We have nothing in this community and we would really love to just have electricity. However, we are grateful to isimangaliso Wetlands Park. As the community we wish that our relationship could continue to grow,” he said.