GPS
-32.5831, 27.2060
Lead Partner(s)
EWT
Biome
Grassland
Hectares
200,112 ha
Land Use (%)
Natural 60%; Cultivation 17%; Plantation 20%; Urban 2%
The Amathole Mountains are a Strategic Water Source Area that supplies urban centers such as Buffalo City. The landscape provides water, soil fertility, and climate regulation but suffers from alien tree invasions and recurring droughts. Restoration emphasizes alien plant removal, reforestation, and catchment management. Opportunities include sustainable forestry, payments for ecosystem services, and carbon-linked restoration. The vision is a drought-resilient water catchment supporting both people and ecosystems.
GPS
-32.5831, 27.2060
Lead Partner(s)
EWT
Biome
Grassland
Hectares
200,112 ha
Land Use (%)
Natural 60%; Cultivation 17%; Plantation 20%; Urban 2%
People/Households
Dependent
Buffalo City & rural communities
Protected
Areas (%)
~3% protected
Ecosystem
Services
Water source, soil fertility
Strategic Water
Source
Yes
Degradation
Challenges
Alien trees, drought
Restoration Actions
Alien clearing, reforestation
Economic Opportunities
Water yield, sustainable forestry, PES
SDG Links
SDG 6, 8, 12, 13, 15
Investment Potential
PES, thicket restoration carbon
Heritage Sites
None