We first met Rethabile Malebogo Johane at the Family Gems Bloggers Workshop. As soon we met her we knew we needed to know more about this fabulous woman who is making waves in the tourism industry. Who wouldn’t want to know more about a lady marketing Khama Rhino Sanctuary.
Tell us a little bit more about yourself, what does your home life look like?
I’m a young lady (not married but in a relationship) and looking forward to having a family of my own in future. When I’m not at work I spend time at church, with my family, friends or my partner.
Tell us a little about the history of the Sanctuary.
It’s a wildlife community based non-governmental organization registered in 1992. It’s run by a Board of Trustees elected by the participating villages of Serowe, Paje and Mabeleapodi. Our Patron is the former President of the Republic of Botswana Lieutenant General Dr Seretse Khama Ian Khama.
The Sanctuary is approximately 8585 hectares. We have good populations of rhinos and other plains game. We also have predators such as the leopard, brown hyena and black backed jackal. There is an amazing 230 different bird species.
The ecological management of the Sanctuary has been successful. We started with 1 campsite but now have 22 well laid campsites, 8 chalets, 2 public ablution blocks, a very attractive bird-hide and a picnic site. There is a network of game viewing routes. Further to these developments we have are rhino tracking and a nature walk. We also have an on-site restaurant, bar and swimming pool.
When did you join the Khama Rhino Sanctuary family and what is your role within the trust?
I joined this great family in 2017 as their marketing officer. I am responsible for the day to day activities of marketing the Sanctuary. This includes developing, establishing and marketing strategies to meet our organizational objectives. It also entails effective management of the marketing, advertising and promotional activities.
In a nutshell, I make people know what Khama Rhino Sanctuary is, its location and what we offer. I am also a contributor to the reservations and front office departments.
When do you think is the best age to visit?
Well the best time for travel is when a person is able to use all the five senses. So that they get to enjoy the guaranteed delightful enviroment that we pride ourselves with.
What age can kids go onto the game vehicles?
Everyone is welcome to have a game drive with our professional and knowledgeable guides. We only have an age restriction for kids that travel in educational groups.
What makes Khama Rhino Sanctuary a great place for a family holiday?
It’s a great getaway for families because we try to cater for all. We have this rich sandy soils that kids love playing with. Our cool tree shade makes it possible for family members to relax under on their camp chairs. We have exciting activities like the nature walk. This assists in encouraging team spirit and togetherness within groups. Also we have accommodation facilities that accommodate the whole family in one area. Note: Here is a blog post on a family experience at the Sanctuary.
What can your kids learn by visiting the Sanctuary?
Our Sanctuary is a very interesting place. Kids will get to know about the flora and fauna we have. The importance of wildlife conservation will also be of benefit to them as it’s one of our core focuses. If kids visit our Environmental Education Centre there are activities that teach them about being environmentally friendly.
Is there a best time of year to visit?
You can visit all year round! We are always looking forward to hosting you. The tourism industry is always booming so anytime is tea time, haha. There is never a time you will go on a game drive and see no animal!
Can schools organize educational visits?
Bio-diversity conservation and promotion of sustainable natural resources use are our central focus at the Sanctuary. We thus have a well equipped centre that caters for educational groups. This centre compromises of a hall, a kitchen, dormitories, accommodation for teachers and ablutions. This allows educational groups to be able to stay for a couple of days. They get to learn a lot. This centre provides activities such as environmental games, game drives and conservation talks.
What does the future hold for Khama Rhino Sanctuary?
Khama Rhino Sanctuary being the brand that it is, we wish to see it grow to a larger brand that many people can align to. There is no limit, like eagles we will soar high.
For more information on Khama Rhino Sanctuary visit their website or have a read of my blog post with insider tips.
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