3. Methodology

Use of SLA and RBAs
Methodology

Use of SLA and RBAs
Elements of SL thinking have manifested at various levels and stages of the Madikwe experience both pre-dating and during the MI:

• Assessment of local assets highlighted the economic potential of the natural African bushveld for wildlife tourism.
• The early emphasis on partnerships between the park authority and private investors and communities has matured into a core partnership between these key stakeholders. The MI has facilitated integration of other key roleplayers such as local government, which carries responsibility for local economic development. Other stakeholders in niche economic roles or providing specialised support services have been integrated into a dynamically expanding web of partnerships spanning a rage of levels and functions.
• The MI has promoted strengthened participation by local community representatives, for example in the MI Steering Committee.
• Sustainability principles have been strictly applied across the range of partnership, lease conditions and enterprise development activities.
• The MI has facilitated macro-micro linkages
  

Applying a rights-based approach has led to communities securing long term lease rights from the Parks board within the protected area, investment capital and other support services.

Methodology

This case study has drawn on:

• The extensive experience of Mafisa, the MI project management Agency appointed by DFIDSA following consultation with all key stakeholders
  
• Project records kept by DFIDSA and Mafisa
• A field interaction with a range of park, private sector, support agency and community stakeholders in February 2002 and subsequent follow up communication
• Literary discourse on ecotourism, sustainable livelihoods and rights-based approaches
  

A characteristic of the project has been the attempt to encompass both quantitative and qualitative aspects. The case study strives to reflect and achieve this. In regard to quantification of returns, it is noted that the study is based on projected flows as the lodge is still under construction.