Wildlife ranching in South Africa has grown by more than 20% over the past 15 years, making it a major contributor to rural economies and the country’s GDP.
So said Jess de Klerk, chairperson of the Wildlife Ranching South Africa (WRSA) branch in the Free State, addressing delegates at a recent WRSA meeting in Bloemfontein.
He explained that there are currently more that two million privately owned animals, four times more than those on state-owned land. A 5,9% return on investment can be realised on a game ranch in a savanna area, carrying 150 large species units (LSU) with a total investment of R2 518 602.
A profit of 9,1% is possible on a ranch carrying 600 LSUs with an investment of R10 050 971, while profitability on a ranch carrying 1 000 LSUs can amount to 10,3% return on investment of R15 018 909. Nett operating margins for the respective ranches are 51,8%, 66,3% and 67,9%. Cattle farming profitability with the same number of animals amounts to 2,4%, 3,7% and 4,5% respectively.
De Klerk said he’s offended by the perception that game ranching is reserved for the rich and that the industry is seen in the same light as golf estates. “This is totally wrong and damaging to the industry,” he said. “Game farmers mostly farm on marginal lands, initiating and stimulating economic activity. We employ more workers on average than the other extensive farming industries and our workers are generally well-trained. WRSA is committed to the development of the industry to the same level as other agricultural industries in the country.” – Annelie Coleman
Game can revive rural economies
ildlife ranching in South Africa has grown by more than 20% over the past 15 years, making it a major contributor to rural economies and the country’s GDP.
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