Matlou Ranch

Setting the benchmark for Tuli Block
eco-tourism industry

In the heart of Botswana's Tuli Block, where the ancient Limpopo and Magalakwena Rivers run together, Matlou Ranch stretches across 11,000 hectares of unfenced wilderness. Elephant, leopard, lion, crocs, hippo, hyena, kudu, waterbuck, zebra, wildebeest and other plains game move freely across this diverse eco-area. Together with wildlife, Matlou's verdant riverine area attracts hundreds of bird species, including jewel toned Kingfishers and exotic Paradise Fly Catchers. The cry of the Fish Eagle is a daily gift heard by many of Matlou's visitors.

Matlou offers guests the choice of lodging at the Ranch's modern, thatched solar lodge, its luxury tent camp — or by special reservation — at Matlou's traditional rondavel camp. Activities are designed to match each visitor's need for adventure or relaxation.

While Matlou's unique eco-programs are featured in outdoor publications and on United States and Botswana television, Matlou considers it's greatest achievement to be it's long term commitment to local people. Matlou is the first private land owner in Botswana to joint venture with a local community. It shares a percentage of its net profits from its eco-tourism programs with the village of Mathathane. Mathathane also receives the majority of the meat harvested from Matlou's limited bow hunting program. In exchange, the village offers counsel to Matlou's management and helps the ranch attend to matters including cattle encroachment and government affairs.

"Anytime local people benefit directly from wildlife — the people, the area and wildlife benefit in the long run," said Oksana Z. Sparks, who owns Matlou Ranch jointly with her husband, Eric Sparks.

Inclusion isn't a new concept in wildlife conservation circles. However, Mr. and Mrs. Sparks were the first private land owners in Botswana willing to stand behind their ideal financially.

In addition to tourism activities, the Sparks family actively fund raises in the United States to help Mathathane achieve it's goals. Last February, Oksana lobbied the Sables of Safari Club International in the U.S. to donate and ship over 8,000 children's books to the Mathathane school library.

Other activities include a doctor 'barter' program. Invited physicians and their families stay at Matlou for a minimal weekly rate in exchange for 3 days service to Mathathane residents.

Future joint venture developments will focus on promoting cultural activities. A 'traditional village' is in the ground breaking stage and is set to open in early 2003 on Matlou Ranch. Mathathane residents will display and sell crafts including basketry, leather and woodwork. The center will feature traditional singing and dancing.

"People, especially children, need to know their culture, language and traditions are important and of value," said Oksana. "A cultural village will be very profitable for the community and their success will keep Matswana traditions alive which will be excellent for the entire Tuli area."

For further information regarding Matlou Ranch or any of its programs contact: Oksana Z. Sparks: Botswana Tel:267-72-281-703, U.S.A. Tel: 520-797-2490.
Email: Oksanazsparks@yahoo.com