KwaZulu-Natal was the recent focus of BirdLife South Africa’s Avitourism Project, which continues to promote avitourism and provide ongoing support for local bird guides. Empowering People Programme Manager Nandi Thobela, Avitourism Project Manager John Kinghorn and MSc student Lance Robinson recently travelled to the province to conduct meetings with 14 of BirdLife South Africa’s accredited birding guides. These individuals, recognised for their dedication to conservation and field expertise, represent a vital part of South Africa’s growing avitourism sector.
In a very insightful and productive meeting held at Dlinza Forest, John Kinghorn (far left) and Nandi Thobela (second right) discussed a host of different topics, including general health, marketing and concerns regarding ethical birding practices, with Junior Gabela, Jotham Maduna and Sakhamuzi Mhlongo.
The purpose of the visit was to strengthen collaboration and provide continued professional development for the guides. The sessions explored a wide range of practical and strategic topics, including:
- Sound recording for citizen science, enabling guides to contribute valuable data for research and to engage the public in biodiversity monitoring.
- The effective use of eBird and Merlin Bird ID to support accurate identification and data collection in the field.
- Strategies for mutual support, allowing guides to share experiences, address challenges and build a stronger peer network.
- Social media marketing insights to improve visibility and attract broader audiences to birding experiences.
- Enriching birding knowledge with a focus on market appeal, helping guides cater to diverse interests and expand their tourism offerings.
BirdLife South Africa is extremely fortunate to have highly skilled female birders among its accredited birding guides. John is joined here by Thabile Mthiyane, Mabuyi Zungu, Nomusa Ntuli and Lethu Nxele, who operate in and around Dlinza, Eshowe, Amatikulu and Umlalazi.
BirdLife South Africa is committed to creating inclusive and sustainable opportunities within the biodiversity economy. By supporting the growth and capacity of local specialist birding guides, we are nurturing a network of knowledgeable, empowered individuals who play an essential role in conserving birdlife and promoting ecotourism across the country. With KwaZulu-Natal’s spectacular natural settings and rich avian diversity as the backdrop, this road show was both inspiring and impactful. The enthusiasm, professionalism and commitment shown by each guide reinforced the immense value of investing in people as stewards of our natural heritage.
Through avitourism, BirdLife South Africa not only celebrates the joy of birding, but also fosters economic development, conservation awareness and meaningful connections between communities and the natural world. Now 25 years in, this journey is far from over; it continues to transform lives, one guide and one birding experience at a time.
Sabelo Mdlalose, Bheki Jobe, John, Noxolo Jobe, Nandi and Bheki Nyandeni after a successful meeting in Hluhluwe.
JOHN KINGHORN, AVITOURISM PROJECT MANAGER
