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The relocation of CCB’s demonstration farm to its new plot has ushered in an exciting chapter for CCB. Since establishing operations at the expanded site, the farm has quickly become a hub for livestock management and human-wildlife coexistence solutions in the heart of the Kalahari. While the new quarantine facility for Livestock Guarding Dogs (LGDs) has already proven its worth, the long-term vision for the site is just taking shape.
On 26th May, local architect Sithabile Mathe – founder of Moralo Designs – visited the site to assess the layout and work with CCB’s Ghanzi Camp Coordinator Phale Seele, Operations Manager Douglas Thamage, and Grants and Communications Manager Jane Horgan on the placement of key camp infrastructure to be built on the new plot. Given the severe flooding experienced earlier this year at our old farm, particular care was taken to identify and avoid flood-prone areas such as rocky outcrops and low-lying channels. Together, the team mapped out where new buildings, activity spaces, and visitor facilities will be constructed – ensuring the layout is tailored to CCB’s operations and optimised for functionality, safety, and flow.
As is often the case with rural infrastructure development, some surprises arose along the way. Significant cost increases in building materials, coupled with the need for unexpected improvements to existing structures on-site, have driven up the project budget considerably. This means that additional fundraising will be needed to bring our vision for CCB’s “forever home” to life.
Meanwhile, preparations continue on several fronts. Informative display boards for our demonstration farm are being developed and will soon be installed at key points near the farm, creating an engaging learning environment for visiting farmers. The site’s demonstration garden – another crucial element of our educational mission – is being cleared and prepared for planting. Plans are underway to grow goat feed, showcasing how farmers can supplement livestock diets using locally grown fodder, especially during dry seasons or drought.
This new site is more than just a farm plot – it will be our home where we work, live, and play. Visitors will be welcomed here – from farmers to students and volunteers, to ambassadors, ministers, and dignitaries – where we can share our vision of coexistence. With careful planning, practical innovation, and continued community and donor support, we’re laying the foundations for a future that benefits both people and carnivores.
On 26th May, local architect Sithabile Mathe – founder of Moralo Designs – visited the site to assess the layout and work with CCB’s Ghanzi Camp Coordinator Phale Seele, Operations Manager Douglas Thamage, and Grants and Communications Manager Jane Horgan on the placement of key camp infrastructure to be built on the new plot. Given the severe flooding experienced earlier this year at our old farm, particular care was taken to identify and avoid flood-prone areas such as rocky outcrops and low-lying channels. Together, the team mapped out where new buildings, activity spaces, and visitor facilities will be constructed – ensuring the layout is tailored to CCB’s operations and optimised for functionality, safety, and flow.
As is often the case with rural infrastructure development, some surprises arose along the way. Significant cost increases in building materials, coupled with the need for unexpected improvements to existing structures on-site, have driven up the project budget considerably. This means that additional fundraising will be needed to bring our vision for CCB’s “forever home” to life.
Meanwhile, preparations continue on several fronts. Informative display boards for our demonstration farm are being developed and will soon be installed at key points near the farm, creating an engaging learning environment for visiting farmers. The site’s demonstration garden – another crucial element of our educational mission – is being cleared and prepared for planting. Plans are underway to grow goat feed, showcasing how farmers can supplement livestock diets using locally grown fodder, especially during dry seasons or drought.
This new site is more than just a farm plot – it will be our home where we work, live, and play. Visitors will be welcomed here – from farmers to students and volunteers, to ambassadors, ministers, and dignitaries – where we can share our vision of coexistence. With careful planning, practical innovation, and continued community and donor support, we’re laying the foundations for a future that benefits both people and carnivores.
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