PROJECT
ReWild Mpumalanga
The ReWild Mpumalanga Project seeks to restore ecological integrity in the Houtbosloop and Schoemanskloof Valleys of Mpumalanga, South Africa. This is a landscape deeply shaped by industrial development, where invasive species, biodiversity loss, habitat fragmentation, and degraded ecosystems threaten both nature and local livelihoods. Our work aims to rebuild ecological resilience, revive biodiversity, and create sustainable community benefits through rewilding and land restoration.
The project is based in the Houtbosloop and Schoemanskloof Valleys, Mpumalanga Province, South Africa. These valleys form part of the transition between grassland and savanna ecosystems. They are crucial for water security, biodiversity corridors, and for the wellbeing of local communities who depend on healthy ecosystems.
The Sudwala Rainforest was acknowledged and registered as a South African Natural Heritage Site Nr. 167 in 1992.
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LANDSCAPE THREATS
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Irreplaceable biodiversity is under several threats from multiple factors, not currently addressed at a sufficient scale.
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Invasive Alien Plants:
Lantana Camara, Bugweed, Ageratum, Pine, Eucalyptus, Tecoma stans and many more.
It causes habitat loss, biodiversity loss (both Fauna & Flora) genetic diversity loss, ecosystem services loss, loss of ecosystem resilience, impact on water security, soil degradation
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Bush Encroachment
Indigenous pioneer tree species are encroaching into the sensitive grasslands. This is due to faulty fire management practices and a loss of ecosystem services historically provided by large herds of herbivores like buffalo and elephant.
Grassland are degrading, loss of biodiversity and habitat.​
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Poaching
Illegal hunting of wild animals with cable snares, as well as shooting.
Illegal harvesting and trade of protected plant species.
- Flora & Fauna on the Red list including Cycad (Humulus), Red Duiker, Oribi, Sykes Monkey (Samago)
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Monoculture Forestry
Pine & Eucalyptus plantation is directly linked to loss of biodiversity & genetic diversity, water depletion, habitat fragmentation, and soil degradation.
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Roads & fences
Causes habitat fragmentation, restriction and obstruction of migratory corridors, blocks animal access to rivers.