CapeNature’s Groenvlei Carp Community Project gifted new fishing boat
The picturesque setting of Island Lake in the Wilderness recently played host to a significant event on 8 May 2024. CapeNature’s Groenvlei Carp Project supported by Gift of the Givers were gifted a new fishing boat by the Oceana Group. Thousands of people from communities in the Southern Cape and Karoo have benefitted from this extremely successful feeding scheme project.
CapeNature CEO, Dr Ashley Naidoo, was in attendance to confirm support for this ongoing project, which sees CapeNature partnering with the Oceana Group, Isuzu South Africa, and Gift of the Givers.
“The Oceana Group sees the value of this project, having initially sponsored a refrigerated trailer, which has become critical for the distribution of carp.
The boat that has been in use is not designed for carp removal and Oceana has shown enormous heart in sponsoring a new boat for the project. This, in conjunction with the other equipment, will be instrumental in increasing the efficiency of this operation,” said Dr Naidoo.
The Oceana Group is a global fishing and food processing company.
The project was initiated in 2018, by Johnny Snyman, who has since become a vital partner through his non-profit organisation Invasive Fish Species Management (IFSM). Initially, the idea was to remove the invasive carp from the Groenvlei and use it for organic compost.
Following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the focus shifted towards using the fish as a source of food. Over the past year, more than 9,700 kgs of carp have been removed from Groenvlei and since inception, the programme has fed around 320,000 people through soup kitchens and communities in need along the Southern Cape.
Gift of the Givers, in their unwavering support, has ensured that the carp harvested is of the highest quality and fit for consumption, distributing the fish to nearby communities and as far as Oudtshoorn, Calitzdorp, and Uniondale.
The initiative stands as an example of the power of collaboration and innovation in creating positive change for the environment and communities in need. The project has grown and is now being extended to water bodies managed by the South African National Parks (SANParks) as well.
Related News
CapeNature goes cashless at select nature reserves
In line with its commitment to service excellence, sustainability, and safety, CapeNature is excited to announce the transition to a fully cashless payment system at five of its flagship nature reserves from 2 February 2026. The move will streamline operations, reduce queue times, and enhance the visitor experience while reducing the risks associated with cash handling.
Celebrating the cultural heritage of wetlands on World Wetlands Day 2026
As the world commemorates World Wetlands Day annually on 2 February, CapeNature joins communities across the Western Cape in recognising the deep and enduring relationship between people, culture and wetlands, celebrating under the 2026 theme “Wetlands and Traditional Knowledge… Celebrating Cultural Heritage”.
Cederberg fire recovery and visitor access
After a significant wildfire spread throughout the Cederberg Wilderness Area during the festive period, recovery and reopening efforts are now underway as CapeNature looks forward to welcoming visitors again. CapeNature has begun a comprehensive recovery programme, which will continue over the next six to twelve months.
Curio Shop Summer Essentials with CapeNature
Did you know that some of your most-loved CapeNature reserves have Curio Shops right on site? That’s right - making it easier than ever to take a piece of your journey home with you. From customised souvenirs to practical summer essentials, these shops are filled with locally made treasures crafted by small businesses, including beautiful handmade items.
Cederberg Complex Fire Update
The wildfire in the Cederberg, which started on 22 December, continues to be actively managed by firefighting agencies. The affected area is now measured at just over 34 000 hectares. While large sections of the fire are contained, the fire is not yet fully contained, and multiple active fire lines remain, particularly in mountainous and inaccessible terrain.
Hit Reset in the Heart of Nature
This summer season, trade traffic for mountainous views, beautiful nature backdrops, and the sweet sound of animals in their natural habitat. Let the birds welcome you with their chirpy songs and allow the serenity of waterfalls to be your white noise when you need a moment to unwind and relax.