“Coming together is a beginning, staying together is progress, and working together is success.” – Henry Ford

Earlier this year, I shared an update on the incredible momentum building across the various Ripple Fund projects – from flourishing farms to expanding educational programs. The response from our Londolozi family was heartwarming, and I am absolutely delighted to bring you another update as we head toward the close of 2025 (can you believe it!).

What a year it has been for the Ripple Fund. We couldn’t be prouder of the accomplishments that have been made. Farms are exceeding production targets, students are thriving in conservation programs, and infrastructure investments are showing the kind of tangible returns that remind us why community impact is at the heart of Londolozi.

This update is more than just numbers and storytelling – it’s a celebration of the incredible people who make it all happen. Jessica MacLarty and Cry Sithole, and their team who spend hours in the communities doing good work in the world, the farmers who wake before dawn to tend to their flocks, the educators shaping young minds, and the community leaders ensuring our elders are cared for with dignity. Their dedication inspires me every single day.

Cry Sithole and Jessica MacLarty – driving forces of the Ripple Fund

Let’s explore the highlights from the Ripple Fund so far this year…

Farm Fresh Success Stories

Exceeding Expectations at the Mathebula Family Farm

With 600 hens now at full capacity, the Mathebula’s are averaging 2,000 eggs delivered to Londolozi each week! Their second coop with integrated rainwater collection systems is complete, and a zero-waste packaging system using reusable Londolozi egg boxes has eliminated breakages entirely.

A Permaculture Success Story at Frank’s Farm

Frank’s integration of permaculture principles is paying off beautifully. His 600 hens produce 1,000-1,500 eggs weekly, while his swale systems capture precious water, and his vegetable production has hit an all-time high – he’s now selling to community members AND neighbouring reserves. On Mandela Day, we provided 4,000 seedlings to support the expansion of his food forest.

David, Nkhensani & Charles – Growing Forward Together 

David Shilabe continues his reliable year-round vegetable supply to Londolozi. Nkhensani’s farm is preparing for major marula cultivation (one hectare signed off with Save the Sand), with comprehensive irrigation infrastructure in development. Charles Mdluli’s indigenous plant nursery keeps expanding, with his plants now purchased by Londolozi Gardens and many other customers.

The Farming Ripple Effect in Numbers

Total produce bought from community farms (including Londolozi vegetable gardens) since January 2025: R273,802.97

This is a direct economic impact supporting local livelihoods – a tangible result of guests simply choosing Londolozi.

Tracker Academy & Rhino Guardians 

Our partnership with Tracker Academy continues to yield remarkable results. Their mid-year report reveals impressive progress: students are averaging 75% in trailing assessments and have logged 505 hours in the field with 58 Big 5 encounters. This work demonstrates how traditional knowledge addresses urgent conservation challenges, training the next generation while identifying critical skill gaps in current anti-poaching efforts.

After the trailblazing success of Tsundzukani Whati, who made history as Londolozi and the safari industry’s first female tracker, we continue supporting Tracker Academy’s groundbreaking first-ever class of female trackers. This historic initiative is opening new doors for women in conservation.

Nurturing Young Minds

Lessons in Conservation (LiC) 

Our partnership with Lessons in Conservation continues to deliver exceptional results! We have reached our goal of 80 students through three successfully delivered capsules, with excellent engagement from students, rangers, and particularly Londolozi trackers.

Good Work Foundation School Safaris

This year, 121 students experienced the magic of safari through the Good Work Foundation program! These are moments that spark lifelong connections to conservation and open doors to career possibilities.

Tshemba Hosi Centre – Jungle Gym Joy

Our jungle gym installation is now operational and sees daily use by school students, enhancing physical development and creating recreational opportunities for children (and the joy it brings these children is incredible to witness).

Before

After – JOY!

Nhlalala Preschool 

The gas supply program has been transformative and is especially valuable during the rainy season when outdoor cooking becomes impossible. We’ve also painted a birthday wall, provided new toilet seats, mattresses, cutlery, student stationery, and 100-200 spekboom plants ready for planting with Sabi Sand School volunteers.

Nhlalala Centre Manager, Zanele and Jess MacLarty infront of the new birthday wall

Community Cornerstones

Hlayisekani Nursing Home – Infrastructure Breakthrough

Honouring our elders continues to be integral to our work. The exciting news is that external funding has been secured for the second building’s roof and construction. We’ve also hosted a wonderful community care day with eye tests, personally fitted reading glasses for each resident, and a social celebration with cake and games. Additional donations have included clothing from Londolozi staff, dressing gowns, towels, face cloths for dignity and comfort, and a printer for improved office operations.

How to Contribute

The Ripple Fund works because we trust in people’s potential. We do our best to provide what’s needed – tools, infrastructure, training, fair market access – and then the most rewarding part: watching our partners build thriving, sustainable futures for themselves and their families.

If you would like more detailed, one-on-one information, or if you would like to make a donation to the Londolozi Ripple Fund and start your own ripple effect, please reach out to us at ripple@londolozi.co.za

Stay in the Ripple

To stay connected, visit our Londolozi Ripple Fund Impact site where you can follow regular updates on projects and donations as they unfold. If you’d like to receive the Londolozi Ripple Fund newsletter, let us know at ripple@londolozi.co.za and follow us @ripple_fund

Every contribution creates waves of positive change. Whether you donate or simply spread the word, you become part of this beautiful ripple effect. Your continued support, simply by choosing to stay at Londolozi, makes all of this possible. Thank you for being part of our ripple.