Women’s Month Feature- The Sekelekani Co-Operative

This all women collective are members of the Gazini community in Northern Umhlabuyalingana near the Mozambique Border. They were affected by elephants crossing over from Mozambique in search of water and food, while walking their historical route in high drought season. This natural migration resulted in the destruction of subsistence crops on their route and instilled fear in the local community. ERP intervened with the proposed solution of beehive fencing, previously well researched in Kenya. Over the years, the cooperative’s hives have managed to deter elephants from invading their crops, creating a symbiotic relationship between the local community and the majestic pachyderms. ERP has also continuously supported the cooperative in the training, production and marketing of their honey product.