Under the Lowveld sun where temperatures reach 40 degrees Celsius, the value of clean, fresh water becomes clear. However, for residents of Hundzukani, Dwaleni and Justicia villages, this essential resource has only recently become accessible.

Empowering Our Neighbouring Communities

Sabi Sabi borders the rural villages of Huntington, Lillydale and Justicia - home to many of our staff members. Since our inception, our mission has been a commitment to supporting community projects through tourism, that uplift and sustain these villages.

One such project was launched in 2022 when the Sabi Sabi Foundation, in partnership with the Gillespie Foundation, introduced the Marula Site water tower that served the Huntington village. This marked the first step towards providing access to clean water across the community.

Fast forward to 2024, and the second phase was unveiled last month at a celebratory event, where community leaders and residents expressed their gratitude for this transformative initiative.

During the ceremony, attendees were taken to the local water source where women and children once collected water. Their stories, now filled with gratitude, painted a stark contrast to their former struggles.

No longer burdened with long journeys for water, they could devote their time to caring for their families. Moreover, economic opportunities have been unlocked, signalling a shift in their lives.

What sets this endeavour apart is its community-centric approach. Under the guidance of Innovation: Africa, residents from each village received training to operate, maintain and monitor the solar-powered water towers. These same community members lent their hands to the construction of the towers, gaining valuable skills and qualifications to contribute to future community projects.

Nurturing Interconnectedness

The event encapsulated the fulfilment of a vision conceived by Hilton and Jacqui Loon (the founders of Sabi Sabi) over four decades ago and the cyclical nature of generational stewardship.  The symbolic “opening of taps” led by Hilton Loon, was celebrated with gratitude to the Sabi Sabi Foundation and the Gillespie Foundation.

The culmination of this much-needed resource is about more than just providing clean water; it is about passing on the legacy of the interconnectedness between the pillars of community, tourism and conservation. Each pillar is indispensable, for none can thrive without the others. 

Traditional dances and heartfelt testimonials for the Loon family, the Sabi Sabi Foundation and the Gillespie Foundation were met with gratitude and enthusiasm. As ululations echoed through the air, it was evident that the impact of these water towers transcends mere infrastructure - they symbolise hope, progress and a shared commitment to a brighter tomorrow.