The impact of eco-tourism on land-use patterns: The case of Dinokeng eco-tourism pilot project in Gauteng Province

Abstract

The objective of this study is to look into the changes in land-use patterns on the mostly private land properties brought about by the envisaged Dinokeng Pilot Project on State-owned land properties since it was introduced in 1995. This is a critical parameter for the success of otherwise of the implementation of the broader project on the mostly private properties earmarked for inclusion in the project surrounding the pilot site. The method employed entailed analyzing progress indicators to gauge whether adequate progress was made between 1995 and 2001 in implementing the project. Indicators used were the finalization of the project process by DACEL, large scale sales and consolidation of affected properties and applications to the Metsweding District Municipality for change of land use by the present landowners. Several procedures were employed to determine whether there was adequate progress or not. The initial programme of Dinokeng Project Concept was studied and envisaged progress was compared with the implementation phase the project was in as at December 2001. The records of the Metsweding District Municipality were studied to find out the types and number of land use change applications by private landowners. The deeds records were also sampled to detect any large scale property sales and consolidations that can be ascribed to the envisaged project. The response of DACEL to criticism by affected landowners was also studied. A literature review of similar projects was undertaken to understand the methods employed to achieve desired results. The study found that there is lack of adequate progress on the finalization of the precise site for the project and agreements with present landowners on the tenure issue and other administrative matters that are a prerequisite for the proclamation of the project. Proclamation is necessary to restrict the land use activities within and around the proposed project site so as to make all affected stakeholders to be committed to the implementation of the project. The failure by the project to achieve the desired results of being in whole or partially up and running within five years of its inception is ascribed to the initial adopted strategy of depending on complementary changes in land use patterns in the privately owned land properties to consolidate the properties into a contiguous ecological area large enough to accommodate the Big Five. This shows that although the political developmental framework has changed, certain old order strategies and procedures are still as effective as ever. It is recommended that the project area be subdivided into phases without any regard to land ownership. The core area should consist of land properties ecologically suitable and forming a large enough area to contain the proposed Big Five. The total project area should be proclaimed with provision being made for a phased implementation approach with definite timetables and concrete deliverables. This will separate the totally unwilling landowners from the others who want to be part of the project on condition that that their minimal interests and requirements are met.