Rotary's Inaugural Environmental Global Grant in District D9350: Preserving the Cape Floral Kingdom

A collaboration between the Sugarbird Project, the Rotary Club of Waterfront and the Rotary Club of St Catharines – feel Proud!

Ralph Roseman: Championing Conservation Efforts

This project is a testament to Ralph Roseman, member of Rotary Club of Waterfront‘s Environment Committee – passionate about the preservation of the Cape Floral Kingdom, in particular Table Mountain. At the launch he shared: “As a mountaineer often hiking through the Table Mountain vegetation known as fynbos, I realize how important it is to conserve our natural vegetation.”

“Alien vegetation is the greatest threat as there are no natural enemies to attack the alien species. Table Mountain is a UNESCO site and an attraction to tourists, therefore it is vital to preserve our unique vegetation. In addition, the alien species burn more fiercely killing the underlying fynbos seeds. The alien vegetation also uses more water than the natural vegetation, critically important in our water stressed country.” Without Ralph’s persistent efforts over two years, this first Environment Global Grant for District 9350 would never have happened. Ralph is also one of the few South African Rotarians who is also a member of ESRAG (Environmental Sustainable Rotary Action Group). Well done!

District Governor Ann Wright’s Commendation and Inspirational Quotes

In her address, DG Ann quoted Nelson Mandela: “Nature conservation is the cornerstone of sustainable development. It forms the backbone of economic growth and social cohesion, ensuring that our beautiful Cape Floral Kingdom remains a source of wonder and inspiration for generations to come.” DG Ann went on to “congratulate the Rotary Club of Waterfront for being awarded the district’s first Environmental Global Grant which has allowed them to collaborate on this exceptional preservation project. Well done President Mymoena and Project lead Ralph. As a club you have led the way and I’m sure more clubs will now consider environmental grants.”

Above Left-R: Lisa-Ann Hosking with Michael Goldman: (RCW) Right: Vic Hamaty, Janice Halliford and Captain Mymoena (RCW).

Guests included: L-R: Geraldine Nicol (Chair D9350 Environmental Committee, also a member of ESRAG), Glen Mabheka (Sugarbird Project Manager), June Webber, Lee-Ann Hosking (Chief Destination Officer, Cape Town Tourism), DG Ann Wright, Helene Visser (District Rotary Foundation Chair), Ralph Roseman RCW (Project Leader), Otto Beyer (RCW) and in front – Robert Magotsi (RCW).

Feedback and Proud Moments from Attendees

Feedback from PDG Geraldine Nicol (Right) – Committee member of ESRAG: “Sharing in the joy of the launch of this Alien Vegetation clearing Global Grant was indeed a powerfully proud Rotary occasion for all Rotarians attending and was confirmed by the many partners who are supporting this grant.”

Impact and Importance of the Cape Floral Preservation Project

“This week Capetonians watched in horror as the most recent Table Mountain fires crept ominously close to our world-famous Kirstenbosch Gardens. Our world-class firefighters once again did their sterling work to prevent tragedy. Those who attended the Friday 26th April launch of the Preservation of the Cape Floral Kingdom project can feel proud to know of the huge contribution this exciting project will make to help reduce future fire hazards on the Table Mountain slopes.”