Thursday 27 April 2023

Lesotho: discovery of biggest ever pink diamond

Storm Mountain Diamonds (SMD) has recovered the biggest ever pink diamond by far from its Kao mine, in Lesotho.

The 108.39-carat Type IIa fancy intense pink stone is more than twice the weight of the 47.81-carat Pink Eternity, which was recovered last year and sold for an undisclosed price.

Mohlomi Moleko, Lesotho's minister of natural resources, described the newly-recovered gem as "one of the most significant diamonds found to date in Lesotho".

The same mine yielded the Pink Dawn (25.97 carat) and Pink Palesa (21.68 carat) in 2021, and the Rose of Kao (29.59 carat) in 2018.

The Kao kimberlite was discovered in 1956 and is the largest in Lesotho and the fourth largest in Southern Africa.

For many years it was mined by artisans and organized cooperatives. It was bought from the Lesotho government in 2006 by Kao Diamond Mines in 2006 and then by current owners SMD (jointly owned by Namakwa Diamonds Limited and the Lesotho Government) in 2010.

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Sunday 23 April 2023

Namibia: a bid to discover underground water

Water for locomotives and a bid to discover underground water in Namibia

The construction of the OMEG railway line from Swakopmund to Tsumeb had begun in October 1903. It had been completed in less than three years, despite even the major delays and logistical complications caused by the Herero uprising January - August 1904.

The first train ran to Tsumeb during August 1906. 

Now that the railway line was completed, the next challenge had been to find ways of constantly supplying huge amounts of water for the operation of the steam locomotives.

The German Emperor Kaiser Wilhelm II had shown personal interest in the ancient art of "dowsing" - finding subterranean water streams or aquifers by means of walking with a "dowsing rod".

He had happened to befriend a man who had a strong belief in his skills to find water. That is how this man got sent to German South-West Africa to assist the governor Friedrich von Lindequist with developing water projects in the colony.

Count José Rafael Perfecto Antonio von Uslar was born on 18 April 1853 in Mexico City, where his father had been the German Consul General. He hailed from an old Hanoverian noble lineage from the Uslar / Goslar area near Göttingen in Germany.

The mother of the child had been Vincenta Ferrer Evarista Rafaela Louisa de Jimenoy Planer, a Mexican lady of Spanish descent. 

When the boy was 5 years old, the family returned to Germany, where he attended school. Later he sold his father's estate and bought a farm of 180 ha in the Sonderborg area, which is now part of Denmark.  

By 1906 none other than the German emperor Kaiser Wilhelm II had recommended sending this illustrious character to German South-West Africa.  

He traveled through the Cape colony first, and then helped find groundwater in the deep south of what now is Namibia. Von Uslar found small amounts of water at Lüderitz. The strong aquifer of Garub along the southern railway line was developed after von Uslar's dowsing rod had indicated an abundance of water. This was during 1906.

Von Uslar was moved to the central and northern areas of the territory, where he was part of a fast moving team "alongside Hauptmann Victor Franke, three corporals, three carts .... six natives, and four horses. They would often travel 50 or 60 km per day, von Uslar would do his sessions "in the mystical and inexplicable world of water dowsing", on the run, so to say.  Soon he indicated the position for boreholes along the OMEG railway line, most notably at Usakos and at Karibib. The boreholes had supplied the iconic water tower at Usakos with precious water for the steam locomotives for many decades.

Usakos had previously been a spot with good vegetation and a bit of water. Herero chief Manasse Tjiseseta of Omaruru had sold this tract of 1600 hectare of land to the Boer settler Jacobus Janssen in 1894 already. During 1903 the OMEG engineers had again bought this farm from the Janssen brothers.

Another strong borehole was developed at Karibib. A fairly large cement reservoir was built, with a watering trough for cattle and horses. This still bears the name "Kaiserbrunnen" or "von Uslar Brunnen".

Count von Uslar returned to Germany in 1908. He died at Detmold in 1931.  

Kaiser Wilhelm had to face being ridiculed in parliament sessions for believing in "witchcraft at the taxpayers' expense".

Fact remains that von Uslar had indicated over 800 spots for boreholes in Namibia. The government drilling team had drilled for water at over 200 of his sites before the 1st World War had broken out. According to statistics from that era, at least 173 boreholes delivered sufficient water. That means an 80% success rate at least.  

The National Archives in Windhoek had kept 8.5 m length of bookshelf: all documentation regarding the "Von Uslar water drilling campaign".

Large scale settlement, or agricultural development of the arid land would not have been possible without the ancient art of "water dowsing". Not many steam locomotives would ever have run without accessing strong water sources.

The historical water tower at Usakos was completed in 1907. An 'automatic water softening plant' was connected to the water storage tank to make the brackish ground water suitable for use in steam combustion engines.

The weather vane on top of the conical roof reads "1907"; the year that the iconic structure was taken into use.

Member of an ancient Prussian family of noble folk, water dowser and personal friend of Kaiser Wilhelm II was instrumental in locating subterranean water arteries in Namibia.

Very few people are aware of the national monument in Karibib: The "Kaiserbrunnen" well and reservoir, also often referred to as "von Uslar Brunnen", it is located about 300m east of the Rhenish Mission Church.

The original borehole is at the front right corner if you face "Kaiserbrunnen". It is not really visible due to the tall grass. The borehole is no longer used since the 1930s. There used to be a wind pump directly above the borehole. For many decades the borehole had now been dry. It would be interesting to see if the ground water table had been replenished during the current good rain season.

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Friday 21 April 2023

Botswana: new Atzaro Okavango Camp in the Delta

INTRODUCING ATZARO OKAVANGO CAMP: SUSTAINABLE LUXURY IN THE HEART OF THE DELTA

Welcome to Atzaro Okavango Camp, a premier safari destination that offers sustainable luxury in the heart of Botswana’s Okavango Delta. Surrounded by lush palm islands and vibrant delta vegetation, our eco-friendly oasis is nestled within the breath-taking landscape of this World Heritage wilderness. At Atzaro Okavango Camp, we provide an unparalleled combination of “savanna meets delta” adventures and unforgettable wildlife encounters, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of the Okavango Delta.

As a guest at our state-of-the-art safari camp, you’ll be able to experience year-round sightings of iconic African wildlife such as elephant, buffalo, lion, leopard, giraffe, lechwe, and hippo. Our premier destination is ideal for safari enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, offering a private and exclusive experience, irrespective of the number of people you’re traveling with.

At Atzaro Okavango Camp, we take pride in our harmonious integration with the stunning natural environment and incorporation of the diverse culture of the local people. Our camp is powered entirely by solar energy, offering the perfect balance of sustainable living and opulent comfort. Indulge in our on-site wellness spa, maintain your fitness routine in our fully equipped gym, or take a refreshing dip in our expansive 20 m pool. Each luxurious tent comes with air-conditioning, private plunge pools, and Wi-Fi, ensuring that you never have to compromise on modern amenities while enjoying the serenity of the African wilderness.

This remote location is easily accessible by fixed-wing flights, road, boat (seasonal), or even a thrilling helicopter ride, making it more accessible than you might think. When you visit Atzaro Okavango Camp, you’ll immerse yourself in a uniquely curated safari experience created out of the vision and dream of Atzaro and African Bush Camps, a strong partnership in global luxury travel.

Experience the pinnacle of sustainable luxury, where eco-consciousness and indulgence meet, and discover the ultimate iconic safari experience at Atzaro Okavango Camp.

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Wednesday 19 April 2023

Namibia: Okahirongo Elephant Lodge, Reimagined

Okahirongo Elephant Lodge, Reimagined

Immersed in the great wilderness of Kaokoland, Okahirongo Elephant Lodge has reopened its doors following an extensive refurbishment.

With seven suites, a two bedroom private villa and a spectacular infinity pool, this extraordinary lodge may be one of the most unique places you will ever visit. Located in a remote, untouched region of Namibia, few visitors will have witnessed the surreal vistas that await you with rugged mountains, shifting sand dunes and curious rock formations.

This oasis is rendered in an organic architectural style that echoes the topography of the desertscape, with a striking dome reflecting the indigenous Himba culture. The open plan, main areas dazzle guests with stunning views of the vast mountainous landscape.

Watch the sun rise over the glistening turquoise infinity pool above the rising hills beyond. With 360 degree views of the breathtaking landscape, take a moment to soak in the stillness.

The expansive and numerous social spaces offer panoramic views of the untouched wilderness. With open sides allowing the outside in, immerse yourself in the otherworldly landscape and experience a strong connection of place. After an action packed day in one of the world's oldest desert landscapes, unwind in comfort on the shaded patio.

Welcoming communal spaces blend chic style with relaxed open-air living. In the main lounge, chunky recessed shelves are dressed with white, clay amphorae, curios and inspiring books.

Each of the seven spacious suites and the two bedroom private villa has been designed as a sanctuary from the harsh desert environment with soothing tones to inspire relaxation. Find solace on the private shaded terrace and keep an eye on the horizon to spot giraffe, springbok and ostrich strolling by.

The serene ambience continues to the en-suite bathrooms where an indoor shower is rendered in bleached-white plaster. In the private villa, large free-standing baths encourage rest and relaxation after a day in the desert.

Learn the ancient history of the unique landscapes and discover cultural tales of the indigenous people from our expert staff, 90% of whom are employed from the local village.

This is a most serene base for your adventures, which include scenic drives with expert Himba guides to track desert elephants, giraffe and plentiful gemsbok and springbok. Another extraordinary activity is a visit to an authentic Himba village, where you’ll meet the indigenous people and learn how they have adapted to desert life.

For those searching for history, take a trip to the phenomenal clay castles of the Hoarusib River valley or visit a Skeleton Coast view point. The mystery doesn't end there – spot the Lone Men of Kaokoland while on scenic drives. These postured rock sculptures blend seamlessly with their surroundings, adding to the extraordinary atmosphere. At the end of a day's adventure, stop to sip a sundowner as the sun sets over the majestic dunes.

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Monday 10 April 2023

Botswana: welcome to Duke's East in Okavango Delta

If you are looking for an intimate safari experience that combines serious safari panache with an unforgettable under-canvas adventure in Botswana's Okavango Delta, then welcome to Duke's East.

The sister camp to Duke’s Camp, it delivers the same Bousfield style and distinguishing characteristics but with just 4 rooms it provides the added option of becoming a smaller exclusive-use camp for family and friends to enjoy.

Duke’s Camp and Duke’s East are set in a remote area located on a channel of the northern Okavango Delta, and will throw you into the heart of the wild. The concession, one of Botswana’s most game-rich and beautiful, is overflowing with excellent game viewing opportunities. Enjoy game drives, boating trips, mokoro meanders, scenic helicopter flights or spend a night fly-camping on a secluded lantern-lit island.

The two properties, Duke’s Camp (8 rooms) and Duke’s East (4 rooms), offer the same facilities and experiences and are located right next to each other. Both camps can be booked out together to accommodate a larger group.

Duke’s East has four spacious tents (1 double, 2 twin and 1 family with private pool), each set beneath a canopy of ebony and leadwood trees offering en-suite bathrooms, indoor and outdoor showers and a private veranda. Around camp you’ll enjoy magical lagoon views, a pool pavilion and a firepit under the stars.

The camp is a seamless blend of yesteryear charm, safari savoir-faire and deep respect for the surrounding natural ecosystems. The main mess area is a delight with its old-world glamour, well-stocked drinks cabinet, library and lounge furnished with intricately carved tables, antique oriental rugs, and campaign furniture.

Meals are a lavish affair of crystal glasses and antique silverware, three-course dinners that celebrate the Bousfield tradition of honouring guests with fine food and wine in the African bush.

In this extraordinary northern Botswana landscape, you’ll be left in the experienced hands of exceptional safari guides, honed in the bushcraft and lore of this World Heritage Site, the Okavango Delta.

There are few better ways to experience one of our world’s last true wilderness areas.

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Sunday 9 April 2023

South Africa: Historical Severe Tropical Storm Domoina in 1984

2 FEBRUARY 1984 - 38 YEARS AGO 

SEVERE TROPICAL STORM DOMOINA

Severe Tropical Storm Domoina in 1984 caused 100-year floods in South Africa and record rainfall in Swaziland. 

While Domoina was moving through South Africa, it drew an area of moisture from the northeast, which produced heavy rainfall that peaked at 950 mm between Richards Bay and Sodwana Bay.

Totals of over 700 mm were reported along the upper Umfolozi, Mkuze, Pongola and middle Usutu and Komati rivers, and along the upper and lower Ingwavuma river. Precipitation spread as far south as Durban, but did not penetrate far into the center of the country. An area of about 107,000 km2 received 370 mm of rainfall.

Along the Umfolozi River, a discharge rate of 16,000 m³/s was recorded, which was three times the rate of a 100-year flood. The river avulsed, or changed its course, near where it met with the Msunduzi River. High rains in the mountains caused the largest flood to date along the Pongola River. The floodplain downstream of the Pongolapoort Dam was inundated to where the Pongola met the Ututu River, which filled many pans – dry lakes - in the region. Along 29 river locations in eastern South Africa, river heights were estimated to have been 1 in 50 year events. The river flooding moved sediment along many banks, and in one location the sediment reached 10 km in length. Due to the widespread flooding and the remoteness of the worst affected areas, there were minimal measurements on the river flow along the Pongola, although above the Pongolapoort Dam, levels reached 13,000 m³/s, which were 18 times higher than the previous record highest.

There had been a planned release of water from the Pongolapoort Dam in March 1984 to provide adequate water to the floodplain, but Domoina prevented this from occurring. The dam had its highest hydrology on January 31 and reached 87% of its capacity. Waters from the dam were released on February 2 to prevent the dam from exceeding capacity. With the future threat of Cyclone Imboa, dam levels continued to drop until returning to normal by February 16, despite requests to hold the water to prevent further crop damage.

Near the South Africa border with Swaziland, flooding stranded about 80,000 people on tribal lands. One road in the country was converted into a makeshift landing strip to allow helicopters and planes to drop off emergency supplies. A period of heavy rain flooded the Umfolozi River, which destroyed a rail bridge near Mtubatuba and a bridge crossing highway N2. The floods were so strong that they washed a boat from Lake St. Lucia to a point 16 km away.

At the lake, the floods washed away a dredge and severely damaged a nearly-finished canal from the lake to the Umfolozi River. Widespread crop damage occurred along the Umfolozi river plains after being covered by up to 1 m of sediment. The South African Weather Bureau considered Domoina as the "first tropical cyclone in recent history to have caused flooding and extensive damage." Nationwide, the storm caused 60 deaths and damaged the properties of 500,000 people, causing R100 million (1984 ZAR, $70 million 1984 USD).

While Domoina was moving through South Africa, it drew an area of moisture from the northeast, which produced heavy rainfall that peaked at 950 mm (37 in) between Richards Bay and Sodwana Bay. Totals of over 700 mm were reported along the upper Umfolozi, Mkuze, Pongola and middle Usutu and Komati rivers, and along the upper and lower Ingwavuma river. Precipitation spread as far south as Durban, but did not penetrate far into the center of the country. An area of about 107,000 km2 received 370 mm of rainfall.

Along the Umfolozi River, a discharge rate of 16,000 m³/s was recorded, which was three times the rate of a 100-year flood. The river avulsed, or changed its course, near where it met with the Msunduzi River.

High rains in the mountains caused the largest flood to date along the Pongola River. The floodplain downstream of the Pongolapoort Dam was inundated to where the Pongola met the Ututu River, which filled many pans – dry lakes – in the region. Along 29 river locations in eastern South Africa, river heights were estimated to have been 1 in 50 year events. The river flooding moved sediment along many banks, and in one location the sediment reached 10 km in length. Due to the widespread flooding and the remoteness of the worst affected areas, there were minimal measurements on the river flow along the Pongola, although above the Pongolapoort dam, levels reached 13,000 m³/s, which were 18 times higher than the previous record highest.

There had been a planned release of water from the Pongolapoort Dam in March 1984 to provide adequate water to the floodplain, but Domoina prevented this from occurring. The dam had its highest hydrology on January 31 and reached 87% of its capacity. Waters from the dam were released on February 2 to prevent the dam from exceeding capacity. With the future threat of Cyclone Imboa, dam levels continued to drop until returning to normal by February 16, despite requests to hold the water to prevent further crop damage.

Near the South Africa border with Swaziland, flooding stranded about 80,000 people on tribal lands. One road in the country was converted into a makeshift landing strip to allow helicopters and planes to drop off emergency supplies. A period of heavy rain flooded the Umfolozi River, which destroyed a rail bridge near Mtubatuba and a bridge crossing highway N2. The floods were so strong that they washed a boat from Lake St. Lucia to a point 16 km away. At the lake, the floods washed away a dredge and severely damaged a nearly-finished canal from the lake to the Umfolozi River. Widespread crop damage occurred along the Umfolozi river plains after being covered by up to 1 m of sediment.

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Saturday 8 April 2023

South Africa: Marion Island

Marion Island

75 years ago, on 20 March 1948, the first synoptic weather observations were sent from the weather station on Marion Island, after South Africa setup the station the year before.

The first controller was A.B. Crafford who was also one of the first settlers on Tristan da Cunha. The station is located above a cove called Transvaal Cove. Since the establishment of the weather station, the staff are changed annually and supplies replenished.

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Friday 7 April 2023

Botswana: Khwai Development Trust

KHWAI DEVELOPMENT TRUST, MAUN, BOTSWANA

Khwai Development Trust serves as not only one of the country's best managed Community Based Natural Resource Management Programs but also a perfect stop over when traveling between the two national reserves.

Khwai Development Trust operates camping facilities at Magotho, Sable Ally and Matswere Camps.

Magotho Campground is located 20 km east of the Khwai Village along the main Moremi - Savuti Road.

The Campground derives its name from the Setswana of Acacia Erioloba or Camelthorn, these towering giants grow in abundance in the area and provide shade to the Campsites. Elephant often wonder quietly through the campsites allowing visitors the unique opportunity to observe them close up.

Matswere, is named for the grove of Giant Leadwood or Combretum imberbe that this exclusive campsite is set in.

The Site is located Along the Sable Alley River south of the old Mochaba Camp and 5kms from the Magotho Campground.

Visitors to this Campsite are treated to spectacular views of the Sable Alley River system and the fascinating bird-life that call it home.

Sable Alley is an exclusive campsite located on the western side of Matswere, 1km from Sable Alley River with a gentle stream running close to it.

The site is located under Combretum imberbe or Leadwood Trees and Croton megalobotrys or Large fever-berry trees.

This campsite is interestingly, a breeding ground for one of Botswana's most endangered bird species, the Slate Egret.

Rules and Regulations:- Camps and Campsites

No electronic music-making equipment may be used at the site.

Occupation of sites after 11am on arrival; the facilities must be vacated by 11am on the morning of departure.

Campsites:-

No firewood may be collected within one kilometer of any campsite and no vegetation may be cut at the campsite.

All fire ashes must be buried in a hole deep enough so that the ashes can be covered by 30cm of soil.

Campers must provide their own toilets which must be either chemical/water or bio bogs (The dimensions of the hole for sewage disposal must not exceed 30cm square x 1.5metres deep). The hole should be filled with soil when it is 30cm from full.

No rubbish pits may be dug or litter discarded at the campsite. All litter should be transported to the nearest town.

No new roads may be made in the vicinity of the campsite.

The number of people at the campsite must not exceed 20 (including staff).

No allocation of camp site; sites, will be allotted on numbers basis.

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Thursday 6 April 2023

Namibia drone regulations

NAMIBIA DRONE REGULATIONS

According to Namibia's national aviation authority, Namibia Civil Aviation (NCAA), flying a drone is legal in Namibia, but we recommend being aware of and compliant with the drone regulations listed below before doing so. 

Considerations for flying a drone for Namibian RPAS pilots

Namibian drone pilots follow a 2-step process to obtain their RPAS Letter of Approval (RLA) from NCAA:

• Airworthiness. Following your application for approval, NCAA will confirm if your drone is airworthy and ready to fly a safe operation. This once off application for each drone will cost you N$ 745.

• Registration. Registration fees depend on whether a drone is used for commercial or private operations:

* For Private operations and hobbies, the fee is N$ 300.

* For Commercial operations, the fee is N$ 4500 for initial registration and N$ 3000 for a renewal or amendment of the registration.  Note that a cover letter detailing your intended operations will have to be filed with the request for the registration.

When flying a Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) for commercial purposes, you need a RPAS license.

A third-party liability insurance is required before operating a drone in Namibia.

General Rules for Flying a Drone in Namibia

On 27th of March 2020, Namibia published new regulations i.e., NAMCARs Part 101 pertaining to drone flying in Namibia and then on 1 May 2022, a directive complementing the regulations and specifically explaining the issuance of Remote Pilot Licenses was published. Both documents can be found on the NCAA website.

Information Good to know before flying drones in Namibia

There are 3 drone categories defined by type of use:

• Cat I – purely for recreational use ONLY on private property,

• Cat II – for use in research, tourism, and sporting events.  An application must be filed at least 15 days prior to the date of intended use and the forms for such application are found on the NCAA website,

• Cat III – for commercial drone flying.  For this, you will need to be a licensed RPAS pilot and your application for approval of the operation must be filed at least 30 days before the date of the intended operation.  You can also download the appropriate forms from the NCAA website.

Other than by type of use, drones are also categorized by weight and for this, please refer to NAMCARs 101.

Here are the most important rules to know for flying a standard multicopter in Namibia:

• Do not fly drones higher than 150 feet and further than 500 m Visual Line of Sight (VLOS),

• Do not fly drones within a published ATC controlled zone,

• Do not fly in a National Park or sensitive or prohibited areas such as army bases, embassies, presidential premises etc.,

• Do not fly closer than 50 m from a public road,

• Do not fly drones closer than 5 nautical miles (9,3 km) from the boundary of an aerodrome,

• You can only fly your drone in VFR conditions,

• Never fly over a crowd of people,

• When you want to fly in restricted airspace, a Civil Activity User Airspace (CAUA), an application should be submitted prior to the flight,

• When flying in a national park or other sensitive areas, an approval from the Min of Environment, Fisheries and Tourism (MEFT) is required,

• Any films that are to be displayed for public viewing require Namibian Film Commission approval (local and foreign),

• ATTENTION - No filming may be conducted on private property without the express permission of the property owner.  Make sure you always have permission of the landowner to fly your drone on her/his premises. You will need consent of people when you fly & video record (local & foreign).

Be well informed through reference to the NAMCATS about VLOS, BVLOS and E-VLOS drone operations defined in the NAMCATS before embarking on such flights.

Conclusion

Inform yourself before embarking on drone flights in Namibia and start your application procedure well in advance of the time intended for operations.  All forms can be found on the NCAA website (www.ncaa.com.na). NCAA email address for RPAS communications is: rpas@ncaa.na.
You can also call NCAA at +264 83 235 2466.

The Namibian Drone Academy (NDA) reachable on +264 81 659 7503 is a good source of knowledge on drones, the training required to fly them and general guidance on operational procedures. So please contact them whenever necessary. They also offer a service to assist you in your application for registration. Even if you require drone services, they have trained and skilled pilots to fly for you. Namibian Drone Academy operates under ATO Nr 0001/20.

However, do not forget that the NCAA makes the rules, issues the licenses and approvals, conducts all the necessary oversight and surveillance over the Namibian airspace. In essence, the NCAA has the mandate to say goes or stays in order to make the airspace safe for us all.

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Wednesday 5 April 2023

South Africa: Gillitts Station in KwaZulu-Natal

Gillitts Station KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Gillitts Park is situated on what was know as the Emberton farm and the Dovehouse farm. The farm was owned by William Gillitts in the 1900’s, one of the main pioneer families of the area and after which the suburb of Gillitts is named.  William Gillitts was born in 1839, in Buckinghamshire, England. William married Elizabeth Catherine Helena Gillitts (born Field) in 1866, at age 27. Elizabeth was born on February 22, 1851, in Richmond, Kloof, Natal, South Africa. They had 9 children: Elizabeth Catherine Helena McDonald (born Gillitts), William Swan Gillitts and 7 others. William Gillitts passed away in 1899, at age 60.

The original train line from Durban to Pietermaritzburg, built in the late 1800’s, winds through the residential areas and is the oldest working railway track in the country.

This train line is no longer in regular use, and is only used by the Umgeni Steam Railway, who runs a tourist service from Kloof Train Station to Inchanga Station on the last Sunday of every month. Dating back to the Boer War in the first decade of the 20th century, the train station was a stop for British soldiers transiting from Durban through to the Midland battlefields as well as returning wounded soldiers.

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