Since inception, a sound relationship has been built and nurtured between The Sanctuary management, homeowners, commercial lodges and our local community. Through co-management and ongoing interaction, community programs, support and job creation, the livelihood of the local community improves year on year and we continue to strengthen our relationship which is uniquely symbiotic.

Liaison officers familiar with dialogue between the different communities and management are an integral part of The Sanctuary team. Constant discussion and negotiations with traditional leaders ensure that the respective interests of the various stakeholders on The Sanctuary are upheld and preserved.

Our neighbouring communities, collectively known as Queuene, consist of several distinct zones with chiefs representing each one. Regular meetings are held between The Sanctuary’s management and all chiefs resulting in true co-management of our resources. The meetings deal with all matters affecting the conservation area and communities such as equal employment representing all the zones amongst other.

Agriculture and fishing are the main means of support. Swift agriculture is practiced and typical crops include cassava, maize, wheat, beans and peanuts. Coastal communities and some migratory inland communities have been fishing for centuries from which trade and barter between the farming and fishing communities has created a fairly balanced diet that continues today.

A clinic has been built by The Sanctuary and staffed by Government to provide much needed medical care. Malaria prevention and treatment is a high priority, especially because children are most affected. The Department of Health and The Sanctuary regularly spray to control mosquito numbers. 

Five primary schools with 1,486 students fall inside The Sanctuary’s main area of responsibility. In addition to the government prescribed curriculum, The Sanctuary provides additional input and material on conservation and tourism to the local schools.

Sanctuary community projects