SafariLands.org: Wildlife: Grumeti Reserves Facelift And Re-Introduction of Black Rhinos

The Black Rhino is a magnificent animal whose ancestors roamed the earth for 60 million years. Since 1970, when as many as 65,000 of these animals were in existence (with 10,000 in Tanzania), the population has been decimated, numbering only 2,700 today (with approximately 35 in Tanzania).

Jones has meanwhile also, purchased a minority interest in Singita's management company to help foster eco-tourism efforts in the region.

Under the agreement, the tourism and affiliated operations of Grumeti Reserves will be managed and globally promoted by Singita to accelerate the growth of the hospitality industry and eco-tourism efforts in the Serengeti region.

Three exceptional lodges have been constructed in Grumeti Reserves: Sasakwa Hill Lodge, a hilltop lodge in the style of an English manor home with awe-inspiring views over the Serengeti plains; Sabora Plains Tented Camp, a lavish tented camp on the Serengeti plains decorated in 1920's grand campaign style; and the Faru Faru River Lodge, with a classic East African safari feel on the Grumeti River. Each of these three spectacular locations is positioned ideally on the renowned migratory route traversed annually by more than a million wildebeest.

Grumeti Reserves have also invested community projects at Serengeti, having established the Grumeti Community & Wildlife Conservation Fund (also known as the "Grumeti Fund"), which is reported to have invested heavily in the region. Among the projects undertaken by the Fund is the proposed reintroduction of 25 Black Rhinos to the Serengeti eco-system.

"We are excited to partner with Singita, one of the world's top eco- tourism and hospitality operations," said Jones, owner of Grumeti Reserves. "We feel confident that the distinctive location, size and beauty of Grumeti Reserves will provide visitors with a 'once in a lifetime' experience, complementing Singita's unparalleled collection of locations and allowing us to increase tourism to the Grumeti Reserves and Serengeti region."

"Unique in its iconic location, exceptional game viewing, unparalleled amenities and genuine commitment to redefine eco-tourism, Grumeti Reserves is one of the most ambitious and finest eco-tourism projects I have ever seen," said Luke Bailes, the man behind Singita. Mr. Bailes added, "Singita will work diligently to continue to foster Grumeti's relationship with the Grumeti community, the Tanzanian Government, the Grumeti Fund and our clients."

"Singita Group, under Luke's direction, is the ideal partner to help us achieve our goals in Tanzania," commented Jones, "I have personally invested in Singita to ensure that we continue to fulfill our commitments to the people of Tanzania.

Grumeti Reserves, one of the world's most luxurious eco-tourism resorts, was established in 2003. Backed by American financier and environmental philanthropist Jones, the 340,000 acre resort is located on the western boundary of the Serengeti National Park. The concession is comprises Ikorongo Game Reserve, Grumeti Game Reserve and Fort Ikoma Open Area. Grumeti Reserves is, and will remain, the sole legal concession holder of these three concessions. As a privately held concession, it offers seclusion and exclusivity, highlighted by the annual wildebeest migration, which passes through these areas in the months of June, July and August and again in November.

The mission of Grumeti Reserves is to rehabilitate and improve the indigenous bio-diversity of the western Serengeti-Mara system to the benefit of local communities and districts, as well as national, and international stakeholders, through practices that are financially sustainable, environmentally and culturally responsible, and politically acceptable.

Formed 13 years ago by Bailes, Singita is a world-class eco-tourism and leisure operation offering award-winning safari adventures coupled with specialized and sophisticated hotel experiences.

Singita currently operates 5 distinctive lodges of varying sizes in and around the Kruger National Park. Notably, Singita was named the "Best Hotel in the World" by Conde Nast Traveler (USA Edition) in 2001, 2002 and 2004.

Black Rhino
The Black Rhino is a magnificent animal whose ancestors roamed the earth for 60 million years. Since 1970, when as many as 65,000 of these animals were in existence (with 10,000 in Tanzania), the population has been decimated, numbering only 2,700 today (with approximately 35 in Tanzania). The rhino's downfall has been brought about by the value of its horn. In some Arab countries these horns are carved into dagger handles. In Yemen, a single horn can bring up to $65,000.00 on the black market. The largest demand comes from Asia, where traditional pharmacists promote powdered rhino horn as an analgesic. There it is worth more than twice its weight in gold.

Source: https://www.arushatimes.co.tz