On Tuesday, October 23rd we went On Safari with our member Bernie O'Loughlin recounting a photo log of a recent journey he and his wife undertook in Southern Africa.
The tour was 3.5 weeks in Southern Africa, and touched on South Africa, Zimbabwe and Botswana.
In South Africa they visited the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg. It illustrates the rise and fall of South Africa’s era of segregation and oppression, and is regarded as an absolute must-see. It uses a broad variety of media to provide a chilling insight into the architecture and implementation of the apartheid system, as well as inspiring stories of the struggle towards democracy. Surrounding the museum are pillars illustrating the pillars of the constitution which comprise seven fundamental values: democracy, equality, reconciliation, diversity, responsibility, respect and freedom.
A number of the sayings of Nelson Mandela are illustrated in the museum; e.g. "To be free is not merely to cast off ones chains but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.” “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” Education is the key to eliminating gender inequality, to reducing poverty, to creating a sustainable planet, to preventing needless deaths and illness, and to fostering peace. "The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall."
Two safari tours were experienced; firstly a five day tour in Sabi Sand Game Reserve which shares an unfenced border with Kruger National Park in northern South Africa with parties of up to 8 people, and the second a 14 day tour with parties of up to 12 people to the Okavango Delta, in Botswana, and Victoria Falls.
While on safari lots of wildlife were seen including; elephants, lions, leopards, cheaters eating impala, various antelopes, hippo, crocodiles, buffalo, warthogs, and birds; fish eagles, kingfisher, and flamingo, and also some beautiful African sunsets.
A new appreciation was learnt of the effects of elephants impact on the landscape, trophy hunting and poaching.
A new appreciation was learnt of the effects of elephants impact on the landscape, trophy hunting and poaching.
The tour finished with some time in Cape Town, South Africa and Robben Island.
John Melville provided the 3-minute talk on his role as the new Treasurer for Rotary Tawa and what that involves.
