Greater Kyalami Conservancy (GEKCO) (GEKCO)

Organisation type
Part of
Izele is supported by
Darwin Initiative Wildlands Hans Hoheisen Charitable Trust Critical Ecosystem Partnership fund

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The GREATER KYALAMI CONSERVANCY (GEKCO) is a peri-urban conservancy registered with the Gauteng Conservancy Association and located between Pretoria and Johannesburg. It is characterised by grasslands and wetlands and a high level of biodiversity. The large open spaces promote a healthy outdoor lifestyle which has attracted many horse riders and equestrian businesses as well as mountain bikers and nature enthusiasts. Kyalami is the centre for equestrian activities in South Africa and said to be the highest concentration of horses in the Southern Hemisphere. GEKCO is currently collaborating with the Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT) in monitoring the endangered African Grass-Owls found in the area. Their research is vital to protect and sustain this species and its habitat. GEKCO is a founding member of the Johannesburg Wildlife Forum and City of Joburg Business Forum's Environmental Sustainability subcommittee. The committee evaluates developments and their Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) to ensure they are done properly and promote sustainability. GEKCO raises awareness of the value of the area and the opportunity to create a sustainable, inclusive community which meets objectives set out in the City of Joburg Growth and Development Strategy for 2040 to mitigate against climate change and food insecurity. The Conservancy, with residents associations and neighbouring environmental groups is developing a model for a Green Neighbourhood which promotes sustainable development such as Urban Farming, cycling and pedestrian infrastructure and recycling initiatives in addition to conservation objectives.

The GREATER KYALAMI CONSERVANCY (GEKCO) is a peri-urban conservancy registered with the Gauteng Conservancy Association and located between Pretoria and Johannesburg.

It is characterised by grasslands and wetlands and a high level of biodiversity. The large open spaces promote a healthy outdoor lifestyle which has attracted many horse riders and equestrian businesses as well as mountain bikers and nature enthusiasts. Kyalami is the centre for equestrian activities in South Africa and said to be the highest concentration of horses in the Southern Hemisphere.

GEKCO is currently collaborating with the Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT) in monitoring the endangered African Grass-Owls found in the area. Their research is vital to protect and sustain this species and its habitat. GEKCO is a founding member of the Johannesburg Wildlife Forum and City of Joburg Business Forum's Environmental Sustainability subcommittee.

The committee evaluates developments and their Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) to ensure they are done properly and promote sustainability. GEKCO raises awareness of the value of the area and the opportunity to create a sustainable, inclusive community which meets objectives set out in the City of Joburg Growth and Development Strategy for 2040 to mitigate against climate change and food insecurity.

The Conservancy, with residents associations and neighbouring environmental groups is developing a model for a Green Neighbourhood which promotes sustainable development such as Urban Farming, cycling and pedestrian infrastructure and recycling initiatives in addition to conservation objectives.