The Issue:

The Cederberg region faces severe ecological and socio-economic challenges, including the near-extinction of the endemic Clanwilliam Cedar due to wildfires, climate change, and invasive species. The decline of this keystone species not only threatens biodiversity but also undermines ecosystem services such as soil stability and water retention. At the same time, isolated communities in the area lack reliable access to basic services, transportation, and income opportunities—challenges made worse by recent natural disasters. The loss of tourism infrastructure due to floods and fire further limits the region’s ability to benefit from eco-tourism, a vital potential source of sustainable income.

 Grant Award Use:

The ATCF grant will enable the hiring of a second local maintenance team, expand cedar propagation through community-run nurseries, and support infrastructure upgrades critical to tourism and conservation. Funds will be used to purchase equipment and PPE, cover team salaries, and support operational costs such as transport and fuel. These investments will restore biodiversity, reopen trails and tourism facilities, and build lasting local capacity for ecological restoration and income generation through sustainable tourism.

 What Would a Successful Project Result In?

A successful project would result in a thriving population of Clanwilliam Cedar trees, restored trails and access roads that support both conservation and tourism, and sustained employment for local residents in ecological restoration and maintenance. It would demonstrate a scalable model of community-driven conservation that strengthens biodiversity, climate resilience, and economic opportunity in the Cederberg region.