Now Dewu Zuma’s work has been formally recognised with the presentation of the 2004 Malamba Award for excellence in contributing to the conservation of protected areas. The award, sponsored by the Wildlands Conservation Trust, was inspired by legendary game ranger Nick Steele, whose Zulu nickname was Malamba.
With little formal education, Zuma has a formidable store of indigenous knowledge and his practical understanding of flora, fauna and ecosystems has been entirely self-taught. However, it is in leadership abilities and dedication to his work that Zuma has set high standards and inspired his staff of 14.
Because the uKhahlamba Drakensberg forms the border between South Africa and Lesotho – an area frequented by drug smugglers, border jumpers and cattle rustlers – Zuma has often had to go into situations where his life has been in danger. He has always set an example to his men by his immense courage and lack of regard for his own safety.
His seniors speak highly of him. ‘Zuma is reliable, respectful, polite – a hardworking and honest man,’ says Acting General Manager uKhahlamba Region AC Myezi. ‘He is an asset to the organization.’
WILDTRUST (registered as the Wildlands Conservation Trust - IT No: 4329/1991/PMB)