SHALIMPO ~ The Jewel of Botswana's Safari Destinations - Northern Tuli Game Reserve - Limpopo/Shashe TFCA

THE LIMPOPO/SHASHE TFCA

The formation and inclusion of the Northern Tuli Game Reserve and other natural areas, within the Limpopo/Shashe TFCA.

The Governments of Botswana, South Africa and Zimbabwe signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at the confluence of the Shashe and Limpopo rivers (Shalimpo) on the 22nd June 2006, thereby enhancing, encouraging and enabling different formats to be created.

With the co-operation of Governments involvement, formats are utilized to initiate and assist all stakeholders to become involved, in consultative processes, so as to jointly establish the Limpopo/Shashe Transfrontier Conservation area in this most scenic spectacular part of Southern Africa.

This inclusive initiative in which the participating countries and stakeholders, have decided to join hands and co-operate, in managing shared natural resources for the benefit of all, is a great step forward in the areas conservation development. This approach, from all interested parties, to conserve the area has many individual, mutual and socio-economic advantages; not least being the actual physical linking and developing of these areas through inter-government agreements (with local community project support for the initiative).

Assistance with the creation of a common conservation plan and ethic for the area as a whole, through this initiative of a closer working relationship, it assists in securing larger areas covering larger and more diverse natural systems, encompassed in one management unit. The Limpopo/Shashe TFCA, which is presently being developed and includes Shalimpo, will cover an area of 4 872 km2 in extent, 28% (1 350 km2) will be situated in Botswana with a further 53% (2 561 km2) situated in South Africa and the balance 19% (960 km2) situated in Zimbabwe.

With already viable populations of the larger species such as Elephant, Lion, Leopard, Cheetah; as well as some 19 mammals, 26 plant species and a fair number of bird species listed in the red data book.

The area is of substantial importance for conservation reasons. The added range, protection and combined efforts offered through the establishment of the TFCA will contribute immensely to the protection of species found within the area.

The dramatic landscapes and contrasts within the TFCA ensures what must be one of the most visually and naturally beautiful areas in Southern Africa, add to this the cultural heritage sites so rich and varied, that it entrenches the TFCA's potential for as a magnificent conservation area.

The Northern Tuli Game Reserve undoubtedly has the potential; with regards to its natural beauty, wildlife diversity, cultural and African heritage attractions, inclusion in the Limpopo/Shashe TFCA and world class facilities with in the reserve, to become a top Botswana, and indeed Southern African, wildlife conservation and tourism destination. Shalimpo is committed to the formation of the Limpopo/Shashe TFCA and forms an important part of its exciting future.