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participation KRUGER

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2018

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Table of contents

No. Index Page Prelude 3 Introduction 4 1 Background 4 2 Stakeholder participation strategy 4 2.1 Stakeholder engagement objectives 4 2.2 Approach 4 3 Stakeholder engagement process 5 4 Stakeholder identification, registration and meetings 5 4.1 Media platforms used to invite stakeholders to register and participate 5 4.2 Documentation dissemination 6 4.3 Public information sessions on Draft Management Plan 6 5 Stakeholder comments / inputs 7

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Prelude

This report is the accompanying stakeholder participation report to the revised park management plan of the Richtersveld National Park (RNP).

The report includes the comments received from stakeholders on the draft park management plan released for public comment on 22 January 2018.

This report is submitted with the revised park management plan of RNP to the Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA) for technical review.

For further information please contact:

André Spies Manager: Park Planning and TFCA Co-ordination Postal address: P.O. Box 787, Pretoria, 0001 Tel: 012 426 5285 PLAN

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Introduction

1. Background

In compliance with National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act No.57 of 2003 (NEM: PAA), SANParks has initiated a process to revise the RNP management plan.

Section 39(3) of NEM: PAA requires that all persons who may be interested or affected by a management plan for a protected area be given the opportunity to participate in, or comment on the plan. Section 41(2e) of NEM: PAA states that a management plan for a protected area must contain at least procedures for public participation, including participation by the owner (if applicable), any local community or other interested party.

The stakeholder engagement strategy was developed inline with the requirements of SANParks guidelines for stakeholder engagement and Chapter 5 of the National Environmental Management Act (Act 107 of 1998).

This report is submitted as a record of the formal comments received from stakeholders on the draft RNP park management plan.

2. Stakeholder engagement strategy

2.1 Stakeholder engagement objectives

The objectives of the stakeholder participation process are to:

 Create a channel for the accurate and timely dissemination of information to interested and affected stakeholders;  Create the opportunity for communication between SANParks and the public;  Promote opportunities for the building of understanding between different parties;  Provide the opportunity for stakeholders to give meaningful input into the decision-making processes that drive the development of the Park Management Plan.

2.2 Approach

The approach to the Stakeholder Participation Process is based on the principles embodied in the following legal framework:

 The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa Act No. 108 of 1996;  National Environmental Management Act No. 107 of 1998 (NEMA); and  The National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act No.57 of 2003 as amended by the National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act No.31 of 2004, Act No. 15 of 2009 and Act 21 of 2014.

In addition to the above legal framework, the stakeholder process was developed with the Guiding Principles for SANParks Stakeholder Participation in mind. SANParks thus undertakes to:

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 Seek to notify stakeholders of participation processes through appropriate mechanisms.  Ensure that the process provides the opportunity for input from all stakeholders within reasonable timeframes, emphasising the sharing of information, joint learning and capacity building.  Promote participation by stakeholders through timeous and full disclosure of all relevant and appropriate information.  Provide feedback on the outcome of the process to stakeholders and demonstrate how their inputs have been considered in the decision making process.  Ensure that methodologies accommodate the context of the issue at hand and the availability of resources (people, time, money) and do not conflict with these guiding principles.  Give particular attention to ensuring participation by marginalised communities, communities with specific concerns, or communities that have contractual rights in the National Park.

3. The stakeholder engagement process

The stakeholder engagement process took the form of a wide-reaching open process where comments and / or input on the draft sections were collected, considered and responded to. The

‘call for comments’ to participate and comment on the draft sections was advertised in national PLAN and local newspapers, on the SANParks website, local libraries and community centres. T Stakeholders were able to register at three public information sessions. At the public information N sessions, stakeholders were given a chance to directly interact with park management.

4. Stakeholder identification, registration and meetings

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In total, 28 members of the public registered as stakeholders during the revision process. –

4.1 Media platforms used to invite stakeholders to register and participate

A variety of media platforms (Table 1) were used to engage stakeholders in an effort to inform of the revision of the park management plan and invite stakeholders to participate.

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Table 1. The various media platforms used to inform stakeholders of the revision of the park management plan. Media Description 1. Direct e-mail All the stakeholders that were registered during the 2008

KRUGER management plan revision were informed about the revision process. Key stakeholders were send personal invites to attend any of the public sessions. 2. National print media Advertisements to inform interested and affected parties to attend advertisements and comment on the draft park management plan were placed in the following national newspapers on 21 January 2018:  Sunday Times;  Rapport. 3. Local print media An Afrikaans and an English version of the advertisement, to advertisements inform interested and affected parties to attend and comment on the draft park management plan, were placed in the Die Plattelander, a local community newspaper, on 26 January 2018. 4. Radio Announcements were made on Radio NFM 98.1, three times a day on 29, 30, 31 January 2018 and 01 and 02 February 2018. Listeners were informed of the revision process and invited to attend the public meetings. 5. Internet Stakeholders were able to access the SANParks website from 01 April 2017 to gain information regarding the revision process.

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6. Registration at meetings Participants were also able to register at the following meetings:  Richtersveld Municipal Satellite Office, Eksteenfontein;  Richtersveld Municipal Satellite Office, Kuboes;  Richtersveld Municipal Satellite Office, Lekkersing;  Richtersveld Municipal Satellite Office, Sanddrift; and  Richtersveld Municipal Office, Port Nolloth. 7. Public information boards Official notices were place at five public venues. These were at the:  Community Hall, Eksteenfontein;  Community Hall, Kuboes;  Community Hall, Lekkersing  Community Hall, Sanddrift; and  Richtersveld Municipal Office, Port Nolloth.

2. Documentation dissemination

The draft park management plan was made available at the public venues as listed in Table 2.

Table 2. Public venues where members of the public could view the draft park management.

Item Action Date Draft document for  Community Hall, Eksteenfontein; 26 January 2018 comment placed in public  Community Hall, Kuboes; venues.  Community Hall, Lekkersing  Community Hall, Sanddrift; and  Richtersveld Municipal Office, Port Nolloth. Draft document for https://www.sanparks.org/conservation/park_man/ 22 January 2018 comment placed on SANParks Website. Revised draft document The documents will be available on the SANParks and comments and Website once approved by SANParks ExCo. They N/A response report available will be made available to registered stakeholders by to stakeholders. email and internet link. Dissemination of The documents will be available on the SANParks finalised document and Website once approved by the Minister. They will be N/A comments and made available to registered stakeholders by email responses document. and internet link.

4.3 Public information sessions on draft sections

Park management prepared a formal PowerPoint presentation addressing the draft park management plan. For the two advertised public information sessions (Table 3) all stakeholders had an opportunity to engage directly with park management.

Table 3. Public information session held around the park.

Number of stakeholders that Venue Date attended Community Hall, Sanddrift 05 February 2018 11 Community Hall, Kuboes 06 February 2018 62 Community Hall, Eksteenfontein 06 February 2018 12 Community Hall, Lekkersing 07 February 2018 21 Council Chambers, Richtersveld 07 February 2018 3 Municipality, Port Nolloth

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5. Stakeholder comments

All comments received on the draft park management plan are listed in Table 4 below. In total 68 comments were received. General, verbal responses were given to the commentators at the various meetings. SANParks has formulated responses to all the comments / input received, including comments received via email.

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Table 4. Summary of all comments and or input received.

No Comment / Input Commentator/s Reference Official response 1 With regard to internal rules: It was stipulated that Mr. Willem Joseph Submitted via André Spies (AS): The internal rule that you refer to is no firewood may be collected. email on 24 addressed under resource utilisation on page 150. It allows January 2018 stock farmers to collect firewood. 2 With regard to internal rules: Stock farmers are not Mr. Willem Joseph Submitted via AS: This requirement appears in the agreement and has allowed to let their small stock graze outside the email on 24 been included in the park management plan. As the borders of the park for periods longer than six January 2018 agreement must be revisited this proposal can be put on the months or more as they will automatically lose their table. This issue will be discussed with Dr. Hendricks, who right of access to the park. is in control of the revision of the contract. Dr. Howard Hendricks: The requirement / rule that you are referring to will be addressed in the negotiation process that will lead to the formulation of new grazing regulations for the park. 3 In the agreement, it is mentioned that capacity Mr. Willem Joseph Public meeting, Brent Whittington (BW): According to the agreement building of the Richtersveld communities will be Community Hall members of the community must receive preference when undertaken through training. How will this be Kuboes, 06 any vacant posts are filled. All personnel receive training done? February 2018 at (formal and informal). At times, the RGBK is requested to 09:00 identify members of the community that can receive training in different fields in order to develop their skills. We will attempt to describe this process clearly in the management plan. 4 The agreement provides for 6,600 head of small Mr. Jan Joseph, Public meeting, BW: This would be a very difficult decision to take, who stock in the park, currently there are much less. Mr. Willem Hans Community Hall should be allowed and who not? Currently there are no Would it not be possible to allow other farmers who Kuboes, 06 farmers in the central part of the park as all the farmers are are currently having difficulty due to the drought to February 2018 at grazing their animals along the Orange river. The area along graze their animals in the park on a temporary 09:00 the river can therefore, not accommodate any more animals. basis? The stipulation of 6,600 small stock units is actually only valid for normal/good times. In times of drought, like the current one, the capacity is much less. 5 Is it possible for the park to assist in negotiations Mr. Gert de Wet Public meeting, BW: As Head of the park, I cannot give the farmers with Namibia to give the farmers access to grazing Community Hall permission to let their animals cross the international border. on the Namibia side of the river? Kuboes, 06 I can assist in the writing of a motivation. But both sides of February 2018 at the river are proclaimed National Parks, so the chance of the 09:00 Namibian authorities giving such authorisation is very slim.

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No Comment / Input Commentator/s Reference Official response 6 With reference to the clause in the agreement Mr. Willem Hans Public meeting, BW: The revised contract makes provision for an annual regarding the rental fee of R5 per hectare; Will this Community Hall escalation for the rental / hectare. be a set amount or will it increase annually? Kuboes, 06 February 2018 at 09:00 7 With regard to tourism opportunities, Is there scope Mr. Willem Joseph Public meeting, BW: The RNP does not have a tourism or wild life economy. for the communities to gain from it? Community Hall One of the aims of the rental is to compensate the Kuboes, 06 Richtersveld community for the lack of tourism and wild life February 2018 at economy. 09:00 AS: Appendix 3 refers to the product development framework and identifies products and activities that might be offered in the park. Any member of the community can propose new activities to be developed in the park. 8 I request that the RGBK should plan projects that Mr. Willem Joseph Public meeting, BW: The RGBK can plan or propose new projects for could be implemented over a five year period and Community Hall implementation over the next five years at any time. that these plans should also be included in the Kuboes, 06 Unfortunately there would be no time to incorporate such management plan. February 2018 at plans into the management plan as the document must be 09:00 presented to the Department of Environmental Affairs at the end of March 2018. 9 Different park managers interpret the rule Mr. Willem Joseph Public meeting, BW: The agreement is strict that every stock farmer will only addressing dogs in the park differently. I feel the Community Hall be allowed two dogs and that these dogs must be under his rule that indicates that dogs that are not under the Kuboes, 06 control at all times. Dogs that are roaming free are not control of their owners will be euthanized, is a little February 2018 at performing the duty they are supposed to do and are a threat drastic. 09:00 to the wild life in the park. According to the agreement dogs that are not under the control of their owners must be removed. This issue can also be put up a point of discussion when the agreement is revised. 10 A general point I want to make is that you should Mr. Jan Joseph Public meeting, BW: We take note. not make promises to the communities that you Community Hall cannot keep. Kuboes, 06 February 2018 at 09:00 11 I would like to bring to your attention that the Act on Mr. Jan Joseph Public meeting, BW: We take note. Minerals proclaim that all non-moving assets Community Hall remains the property of the owner of the land. The Kuboes, 06 park should therefore not pay for infrastructure. February 2018 at 09:00

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No Comment / Input Commentator/s Reference Official response 12 Is it possible for the park to establish a radio Mr. Gert de Wet Public meeting, BW: The lack of communication due to the terrain within the communication network for use by the stock Community Hall park will always be a problem. We are investigating the farmers? Kuboes, 06 possibility of erecting a repeater on the Namibian side of the February 2018 at river to improve communication, but it is not definite yet. We 09:00 are also investigating a possible communication network for Klein Duin and Oograbies West. 13 I am worried about the safety of stock farmers and Mr. Gert de Wet Public meeting, BW: If the stock farmers are willing to declare in writing that their stock and the fact that the stock farmers are Community Hall they will only use firearms to protect their animals, I would not allowed to carry firearms. Kuboes, 06 support their request. But I know that this will not be the February 2018 at case. The park rules must be obeyed. 09:00 14 I request that the park should refrain from awarding Mr. S.E. De Wet Public meeting, BW: Current contracts are only awarded for a period of one contracts to the same people every year. Others Community Hall year. Any member of the community may apply as long as should also get an opportunity. Kuboes, 06 he/she complies with the requirements set out for the project. February 2018 at 09:00 15 I see that only posts for game rangers are Mr. S.E. De Wet Public meeting, BW: Over and above game ranger posts, there are also other advertised. Are there no other posts available? Community Hall posts, e.g. technical, tourism, pontoon and administrative Kuboes, 06 posts that could be advertised when vacant. February 2018 at 09:00 16 I want to query the borders of the park. According Mr. Isak Cloete, Public meeting, AS: I refer to Appendix 1 in the park management plan that to information in our possession, the border runs Mr. Koos Strauss, Community Hall describes the park border. This description was published in on top of the Vandersterrberg up to the Mr. Justice Farmer Eksteenfontein, the Government Gazette dated 16 August 1991. We must Rosyntjiebosberg. On the map in the management 06 February 2018 ensure that the park border correlates with the border plan, the border runs over the Rosyntjiebosberg at 15:00 described in Appendix 1. Maybe the sign that you refer to and includes the Rosyntjiebos river. This is an was erected at the wrong spot. important water point and stock farmers have BW: The Senior Section Ranger was appointed, to always had access to this water point. The park implement effective law enforcement, inter alia. The erection erected a sign indicating the border of the park, but of the sign was part of this process, It seems as if the sign it is at the incorrect spot, it is in the World Heritage was erected at the wrong spot. The park will investigate and Site. The Rosyntjieberg and Vandersterrberg rectify, if that is the case. constitute the border, not the river. The community cannot be disadvantaged due to uncertainty around the park border.

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No Comment / Input Commentator/s Reference Official response 17 Stock farmers from Kuboes have benefitted from Mr. Isak Cloete Public meeting, BW: The original agreement that was reached in 1991 is the park for many years whilst the farmers from Community Hall currently being reviewed. A list has been compiled of the Lekkersing and Eksteenfontein did not have the Eksteenfontein, stock farmers that may farm in the park. The RGBK plans to advantage of farming in the park. It is a 06 February 2018 revise the list. That should solve the problem. Richtersveld National Park, so the farmers from at 15:00 Lekkersing and Eksteenfontein should also benefit from the park. 18 Mistakes were made in the past that must be Mr. Isak Cloete Public meeting, AS: It is important to note that SANParks cannot decide on rectified with the revision of the agreement and the Mr. Justice Farmer Community Hall these issues, the decision must be taken by the RGKB. management plan. The park stock farmers are Eksteenfontein, allowed to graze in the park, but when it rains they 06 February 2018 are also allowed to graze outside the park. The at 15:00 farmers that are not on the list, however, are not allowed to graze their animals inside the park. The stock farmers were here long before the proclamation of the park and therefore they should be given a special place. 19 I refer to Appendix 4. I request that the rule Mr. Henley Strauss Public meeting, BW: I refer you to the answer given w.r.t. question 4. regarding stock farmers that lose their right to Mr. Ryno Farmer Community Hall grazing if they graze their animals outside the park Eksteenfontein, for a period of more than six months, should either 06 February 2018 be reviewed or removed. The park stock farmers at 15:00 may move their animals to better ground after rains, but the communal farmers do not have this advantage with access to the park. 20 According to the agreement a maximum number of Mr. Jakobus Public meeting, BW: I refer you to the answer given w.r.t. question 4. animals are allowed in the park. If/when there are Diergaardt Community Hall less animals present in the park, could the Eksteenfontein, communal farmers that are in need of grazing be 06 February 2018 allowed to graze their animals in the park? at 15:00 21 Section 7 refers to 2 access gates into the park, but Mr. Henley Strauss Public meeting, BW: We are aware of the other places as mentioned that there are actually more (Katkop, Tierhoek, Community Hall provide access to the park, but there are only 2 official Gelykwerf, Venstervalle). Eksteenfontein, access gates for visitors, the pontoon at Sendelingsdrift and 06 February 2018 Helskloofhek. at 15:00

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No Comment / Input Commentator/s Reference Official response 22 Can the park assist in the improvement of cellular Mr. Justice Farmer Public meeting, BW: As SANParks we cannot erect towers, the relevant cell communication in the Eksteenfontein vicinity? Community Hall phone supplier would have to investigate and decide if it is Eksteenfontein, economically viable to upgrade the cell phone reception. 06 February 2018 SANParks can assist with the motivation supporting the at 15:00 request. 23 Are there any projects related to climate change Mr. Henley Strauss Public meeting, AS: A climate change program is discussed in Chapter 10 of contained in the management plan? Community Hall the management plan. The first five years of the plan will Eksteenfontein, focus on research. 06 February 2018 at 15:00 24 When tenders are awarded the people of Mr. Jakobus Public meeting, BW: During the 2017/18 financial year contractors were Eksteenfontein should also be given a chance. I Diergaardt Community Hall appointed from all four the communities for the Biodiversity specifically refer to the wire-fencing project at Klein Mr. Isak Cloete Eksteenfontein, Social Projects. The Eksteenfontein contractor that was Duin and Oograbies West. The Eksteenfontein 06 February 2018 appointed, did not do any work for the last four months, community was not given the opportunity to tender. at 15:00 resulting in his employees not being paid. They are only paid for work completed. In the new financial year new contracts will be advertised and any one that meet the requirements can apply. The possibility to appoint sub-contractors exist. With regard to the project for the Klein Duin Oograbies West border fence, this has been earmarked specifically for the Lekkersing community. Potential projects have also been identified for the Eksteenfontein community. As soon as funds are allocated to these projects, they will be implemented. The park attempts to accommodate all four towns, especially where the maintenance of infrastructure is concerned. 25 On what level did the negotiations w.r.t. the wire- Mr. Jakobus Public meeting, BW: All appointments for projects are done by the RGBK. A fencing project at Oograbies West take place? Diergaardt Community Hall panel of judges review the applicants and make Fence erection is also my occupation as I am a Mr. Koos Strauss Eksteenfontein, recommendations on who should be appointed to the RGBK. wire-strainer and it seems unreasonable towards 06 February 2018 As head of the park, I have no power to appoint contractors our people of the Richtersveld as I have heard that at 15:00 on my own. Mr Arno Cloete, that was awarded the wire- people from Kommagas were involved in the fencing contract, saw that he would not be able to complete project. When sub-contractors are appointed the the work in the allocated period of time. He then sub- work must be allocated to people from the contracted some of the other community members that Richtersveld community. tendered for the project. I will follow up with Mr Cloete to ensure that only members of the Richtersveld community are appointed as sub-contractors.

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No Comment / Input Commentator/s Reference Official response 26 I currently graze my animals along the river, as far Mr. Justice Farmer Public meeting, BW: Until the uncertainty w.r.t. the borderline has been as I know, the park border has been marked Community Hall cleared, Mr Farmer may continue to graze his animals along incorrect. I now need to know if I can continue to Eksteenfontein, the river. As soon as this issue has been resolved, unlawful graze my animals there or if you are going to evict 06 February 2018 grazing will be addressed. I will contact the Namibian me? Cattle from the Namibia side of the river are at 15:00 authorities w.r.t. the cattle that are grazing illegally on the currently grazing there, does that mean I can also South African side of the river. graze my animals there? 27 There is a deficiency in the decision making Mr. Isak Cloete Public meeting, BW: One of the challenges the RGBK faces, is process at the RGBK. When the community Community Hall communication between the RGBK Community representative is not present at a RGBK meeting, Eksteenfontein, Representatives and the communities. It seems as if the community can be at a disadvantage when 06 February 2018 information does not reach the communities. In December I decisions are taken. The stock farmer at 15:00 held meetings in all four towns, only Sanddrift and representative must be restricted when it comes to Eksteenfontein had any attendance. The aim of the decisions affecting the different communities. meetings was to give feedback about general information on the park. I plan to hold regular information sessions in the towns. Your attendance is of primary importance and is appreciated. 28 Can you please give us more information on job Mr. Koos Stoffel Public meeting, BW: Additional technical posts, one pontoon assistant and creation, expansion and development of the park, Community Hall one senior game ranger post will be advertised shortly. The as well as on the late payment of Lekkersing, 07 park cannot compete with the mines when it comes to job workers/contractors. February 2018 at creation. Any park project that utilises government funding, 09:00 must focus on the promotion of biodiversity and socio- economical upliftment. I also refer to the answer given on question 22. BW: The only expansion plan is applicable to Klein Duin Oograbies West. 29 Is the wire-fencing project at Klein Duin Oograbies Mrs. Christina Public meeting, BW: I refer to the answer given w.r.t. question 4. West still continuing? Is only one contractor Matthys Community Hall benefitting from it? Lekkersing, 07 February 2018 at 09:00 30 When posts are filled, one hears that only people Mrs. Christina Public meeting, BW: According to the agreement vacant posts must be from Kuboes and Eksteenfontein are appointed Matthys Community Hall advertised in all four communities. We can only appoint and not from Lekkersing and Sanddrift. How does Lekkersing, 07 people with the required qualifications for the post. If a that work? February 2018 at suitable candidate could not be sourced for a post, 09:00 permission must be obtained from the RGBK to advertise externally. This is only applicable to posts requiring scares skills. It might be that people living in Lekkersing or Sanddrift that applied did not have the right qualifications.

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No Comment / Input Commentator/s Reference Official response 31 With regard to the wire-fencing project. Could Mrs. Elizabeth Nero Public meeting, BW: This is not a BSP project, therefore, the 50/50 women not also be employed? It is only men Community Hall requirement of BSP projects is not applicable here. These working there. Should it not be 50/50 (men / Lekkersing, 07 workers camp in the field under difficult circumstances and women)? February 2018 at perform strenuous physical labour. In the end the contractor 09:00 that got the tender is responsible for the appointment of his/her personnel. 32 I would like clarity w.r.t. the consolidation of the Mr. Jakob Public meeting, BW: Eskom undertook to compensate SANParks for the Klein Duin Oograbies West area and the borders of Diergaardt Community Hall power lines running through Klein Duin. This will be the property at Vyftienmylseberg. Lekkersing, 07 accomplished by buying property and transferring it to February 2018 at SANParks. We would like to obtain the property of the 09:00 Kotzes in order to put up the fence next to the road, thus including the whole Vyftienmylseberg. If the Kotzes do not wish to sell the property we will have to run the fence on top of the mountain. 33 According to my knowledge you already own the Mr. Jakob Public meeting, BW: We will confirm the borders. property up to the road. Diergaardt Community Hall Lekkersing, 07 February 2018 at 09:00 34 What is the future for Klein Duin Oograbies West? Mr. Koos Stoffel Public meeting, BW: Several options were identified for the Klein Duin Community Hall Oograbies West section. At this stage no final decision has Lekkersing, 07 been reached on what will happen there. What we can February 2018 at confirm is that, due to the drought, no wildlife will be 09:00 rehabilitated there at this stage. 35 What income did you generate in the current Mr. Johan De Waal Public meeting, BW: Our current income generated is just below R4 million. financial year? Community Hall Port Nolloth, 07 February 2018 at 15:00 36 What is the procedure at border crossing? Mr. Theuns Botha Public meeting, BW: We are investigating the standardisation of procedures Community Hall of cross border access. KTP example is the preferred model Port Nolloth, 07 to be used. We are currently in discussion with the Namibian February 2018 at Road Department regarding a permit for regular visitors. 15:00 Normal passport control is applicable to Ai-Ais Richtersveld TP, hopefully this will change in the future.

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No Comment / Input Commentator/s Reference Official response 37 The Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park (KTP) is an Mr. Keith Newman Public meeting, BW: There is no pressure on the park to become financially example of a park that is being pressurized to Community Hall sustainable. No further accommodation development will be make money. It used to be a low volume park Port Nolloth, 07 done in the park. Due to the low occupancy, currently 28%, regarding visitor numbers. These days it has a February 2018 at it does not make financial sense to build more Kruger feeling to such an extent that there are 15:00 accommodation units. For the Klein Duin area we have traffic congesting at predator sightings / kills. Is identified a limited number of eco-campsites. there a danger that Richtersveld will go the same route as KTP? Is there anything in place to mitigate against this? 38 Regarding the zoning, has there been a change in Mr. Keith Newman Public meeting, BW: There are definitely changes to the zoning based on the the different zones when you compare the 2008 Community Hall sensitivity analyses. plan with the 2018 plan. For example, is the Port Nolloth, 07 AS: The 2008 zonation didn’t have a wilderness zone, while sensitive zones growing and is it sustainable? February 2018 at the 2018 zonation does have a wilderness zone. By law, the 15:00 wilderness zone must be declared and this will be gazetted in due course. 39 In the context of the current drought and you being Mr. Johan De Waal Public meeting, BW: SANParks is represented by our fresh water ecologist the management authority of the RNP that borders Community Hall on the Orange-Senqu River Commission the Orange River. How are you involved in Port Nolloth, 07 (ORASECOM).This committee is responsible for the emergency planning regarding the usage of the February 2018 at management of the Orange River. The park is not directly water? Should the river stop flowing, are there any 15:00 involved but does give input through the SANParks plans in place or are you involved in planning, how representative. A gauging weir is located upstream of are you involved? There’s no information sharing/ Sendelingsdrift, where the river flow is measured. This communication regarding the water level of the information is sent through to the Department of Water & Orange River. Sanitation. Water extraction is governed on both sides of the Orange River, how well we don’t know. Mines have water extraction permits that allow them to extract a certain amount of water. There is no clear plan of action, should the river stop flowing that I’m aware off. 40 To confirm, as a downstream recipient, SANParks Mr. Keith Newman Public meeting, BW: Yes. doesn’t have the responsibility to manage the Community Hall water, but do have the ability to report on water Port Nolloth, 07 levels. February 2018 at 15:00 41 Is the planning regarding the National Botanical Mr. Johan de Waal Public meeting, BW: This matter is not currently included in the plan, we will garden included in the management plan? Community Hall address it. Port Nolloth, 07 February 2018 at 15:00

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No Comment / Input Commentator/s Reference Official response 42 Are there plans or programmes in place that will Mr. Johan de Waal Public meeting, BW: One of the objectives of the nursery at Sendelingsdrift assist with the rehabilitation of plant communities Community Hall is to address the issue that you’ve raised. The nursery will that might disappear due to the drought? Port Nolloth, 07 act as a seed bank that will assist us with rehabilitation, albeit February 2018 at on a small scale. SANParks and SANBI are currently 15:00 discussing a MOU to establish a National Botanical garden that will represent the desert mountain biome at Sendelingsdrift. 43 What is the current status of the mining industry? Mr. Johan de Waal Public meeting, BW: The only active mine within the RNP that I’m aware of is Community Hall Oena Mine owned by Tango Mining. Sendelingsdrift, Port Nolloth, 07 Reuning, Octa, Bloeddrift, Noxdap, Jakkalsberg, Baken, February 2018 at Asplant, Blou Plant and Grasdrift, all of the plants, are 15:00 currently not active. 44 Who is still mining, who is not? What’s the status Mr. Johan de Waal Public meeting, BW: Most of these mines are in a care-and-maintenance with rehabilitation and the maintenance of roads Community Hall phase and therefore they don’t have to rehabilitate. Only etc. Port Nolloth, 07 once they are officially closed must they rehabilitate. A ten February 2018 at year rehabilitation plan exist for the Trans Hex mines but they 15:00 have not yet started. All the concessions and mining rights are still in place and mining could at any stage be continued. I can report that the road was graded recently. The park has reached an agreement with Trans Hex regarding the maintenance of the road and the park provided the diesel and the mine the grader and operator. To improve the road condition it will need to be resurfaced and the estimated cost is R20 million. This will only cover the distance from Sendelingsdrift to Helskloof gate. There is a process underway to approach all the agencies i.e. SAPS-POE, Immigration, DEA, Trans Hex Mine regarding the maintenance of the road. 45 What will the impact be on the communities if the Mr. Johan De Waal Public meeting, BW: I would imagine that the de-proclamaition of the park will park is de-proclaimed ? Community Hall have a significant socio-economic impact on the Port Nolloth, 07 communities of the Richtersveld. There will be very few February 2018 at permanently employed people in the Richtersveld. The park 15:00 currently employs 30 people on a permanent basis. This will also affect tourism negatively in the Richtersveld. It will also have a catastrophic impact on biodiversity conservation because there will be no control over grazing by the stock farmers.

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No Comment / Input Commentator/s Reference Official response 46 Section 4, p.33: include South African Heritage Me Ragna Email send from AS: Section 4 sets out the strategic approach that SANParks Resources Agency (SAHRA). Redelstorff, South rredelstorff@sahr follow regarding stakeholder participation during the African Heritage a.org.za, 02 management plan revision process and going interaction. Resources Agency March 2018 We don’t list all the park stakeholders in section 4. 47 We suggest you use “rock engravings” rather than Me Ragna Email send from Thabo Kgomommu (TK): We’ll change the terminology to petroglyphs. Redelstorff, South rredelstorff@sahr reflect rock engravings. African Heritage a.org.za, 02 Resources Agency March 2018 48 Section 6.2.6, p.37: A Heritage Resources Me Ragna Email send from TK: A Heritage Manager in each park is ideal but not Manager must be employed for Cultural Heritage Redelstorff, South rredelstorff@sahr practical. SANParks provides centralised and regionalised Management. African Heritage a.org.za, 02 cultural heritage support to parks. Resources Agency March 2018 49 Section 5.2.7, p. 42: A Park Heritage Management Me Ragna Email send from TK: It has been noted and will be implemented in the future. Plan is required for this objective as well as a Redelstorff, South rredelstorff@sahr See response given to no 48. Heritage Manager to implement the plan. African Heritage a.org.za, 02 Resources Agency March 2018 50 Section 6.5.1, p. 45: “heritage value” to be changed Me Ragna Email send from TK: SANParks has responsibilities that includes world to “heritage significance” as per section 3 of the Redelstorff, South rredelstorff@sahr heritage. “Heritage Value” and “Cultural Significance” are NHRA, No 25 of 1999. African Heritage a.org.za, 02 used interchangeably as one is a common term in Resources Agency March 2018 international practice whilst the other is more confined to local legislation 51 Section 7.7, p. 59: While the inventory as Me Ragna Email send from TK: The SANParks Cultural Heritage Policies and Guidelines discussed previously has not been populated, an Redelstorff, South rredelstorff@sahr provide strategic direction while section 10.5.4 provides estimated number of heritage sites in the park African Heritage a.org.za, 02 operational guidance. would encourage the need for more cultural Resources Agency March 2018 heritage management programmes and awareness in the park, both amongst staff and guests. 52 Section 7.7, p.59: A site management plan should Me Ragna Email send from TK: This is provided for in the cultural heritage policy as well be developed for these sites. Redelstorff, South rredelstorff@sahr as in section 10.5.4 in the management plan. African Heritage a.org.za, 02 Resources Agency March 2018 53 Section 9.5, p. 62-63: Please note that some Me Ragna Email send from TK: We take note of this requirement and will adhere where proposed infrastructure may trigger section 38(1) Redelstorff, South rredelstorff@sahr required. of the NHRA and will require a Heritage Impact African Heritage a.org.za, 02 Assessment to be completed before construction Resources Agency March 2018 may commence.

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No Comment / Input Commentator/s Reference Official response 54 Section 9.5.4, p. 64: In order to open sites up to the Me Ragna Email send from TK: We take note of this requirement and will adhere where public, it would require Conservation Management Redelstorff, South rredelstorff@sahr required. We will engage SAHRA regarding whether the Plans to be developed as per the SAHRA Site African Heritage a.org.za, 02 Provincial Heritage Resources Agency (PHRA) in the Management Plan Guidelines and submitted to Resources Agency March 2018 Northern Cape is competent authority as these sites are not SAHRA for comment. national heritage sites. 55 Section 10.3.11, p. 91: SAHRA could be consulted Me Ragna Email send from TK: We take note of this and will engage SAHRA as required. regarding heritage research programmes. Redelstorff, South rredelstorff@sahr African Heritage a.org.za, 02 Resources Agency March 2018 56 Section 10.4, p. 96: In order to open sites up to the Me Ragna Email send from TK: We take note of this requirement and will adhere where public, it would require Conservation Management Redelstorff, South rredelstorff@sahr required. We will engage SAHRA regarding whether the Plans to be developed as per the SAHRA Site African Heritage a.org.za, 02 PHRA in the Northern Cape is competent authority as these Management Plan Guidelines and submitted to Resources Agency March 2018 sites are not national heritage sites. SAHRA for comment. 57 Section 10.5.1, p. 99: The stakeholder Relationship Me Ragna Email send from TK: We take note of this and will engage SAHRA as required. Programme table should include SAHRA: “Engage Redelstorff, South rredelstorff@sahr with government structures such as the African Heritage a.org.za, 02 Department of Economic Development and Resources Agency March 2018 Tourism and the South African Heritage Resources Agency”. 58 Section 10.5.4, p. 103: A Heritage Manager must Me Ragna Email send from TK: See response given to no 48. be appointed to implement the cultural heritage Redelstorff, South rredelstorff@sahr programme. African Heritage a.org.za, 02 Resources Agency March 2018 59 Section 10.5.4, p. 103: Add “Site Management Me Ragna Email send from TK: We have included the reference to site management Plans Guidelines” to the list of documents that Redelstorff, South rredelstorff@sahr plans in the second paragraph. guide the management (2nd paragraph). African Heritage a.org.za, 02 Resources Agency March 2018 60 Section 10.5.4, p. 103: Any data resulting from the Me Ragna Email send from TK: Noted survey must be uploaded to the South African Redelstorff, South rredelstorff@sahr Heritage Resources Information System (SAHRIS) African Heritage a.org.za, 02 as per section 9 of the NHRA. Resources Agency March 2018 61 Section 10.5.4, p. 103: SAHRA must be included in Me Ragna Email send from TK: SAHRA will be included in discussions where required. discussions related to heritage. Redelstorff, South rredelstorff@sahr African Heritage a.org.za, 02 Resources Agency March 2018

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No Comment / Input Commentator/s Reference Official response 62 Section 10.5.4, p. 104: Regarding ”adding GPS Me Ragna Email send from TK: Noted. GPS coordinates will be used for management coordinates”, this is not ideal as this may result in Redelstorff, South rredelstorff@sahr purposes only. conservation issues. African Heritage a.org.za, 02 Resources Agency March 2018 63 Section 10.5.4, p. 104: Responsibility of PM: This Me Ragna Email send from TK: Park Manager takes ultimate responsibility for ensuring should all be the responsibility of the Heritage Redelstorff, South rredelstorff@sahr the management plan is being implemented. In the Manager. Park Managers will not have the time African Heritage a.org.za, 02 foreseeable future it is not practical to appoint Heritage and expertise to do this. Resources Agency March 2018 Managers in all the parks. Technical work will be provided by the Heritage unit and third parties where required. 64 Section 10.5.4, p. 104: Development of a Cultural Me Ragna Email send from TK: The document/s will be sent to the relevant unit of Heritage Plan: This document must be sent to Redelstorff, South rredelstorff@sahr SAHRA. SAHRA and the NC Provincial Heritage Resources African Heritage a.org.za, 02 Authority for comment. Resources Agency March 2018 65 Section 10.5.4, p. 104: Monitoring reports must be Me Ragna Email send from TK: Noted submitted on SAHRIS Redelstorff, South rredelstorff@sahr African Heritage a.org.za, 02 Resources Agency March 2018 66 Section 10.5.4, p. 104: Draft and submit to SAHRA Me Ragna Email send from TK: Noted the SAHRA Section 9 Annual Report on the park’s Redelstorff, South rredelstorff@sahr Cultural Heritage Management. African Heritage a.org.za, 02 Resources Agency March 2018 67 Section 10.5.4, p. 104: interpretation plan as part Me Ragna Email send from TK: The document/s will be sent to the relevant unit of of each Site Management Plan to be sent to Redelstorff, South rredelstorff@sahr SAHRA. SAHRA APM. African Heritage a.org.za, 02 Resources Agency March 2018 68 Section 10.6.5, p. 111: Any heritage data must be Me Ragna Email send from TK: Noted uploaded to the South African Heritage Resources Redelstorff, South rredelstorff@sahr Information System (SAHRIS). African Heritage a.org.za, 02 Resources Agency March 2018

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