ADOPT A BAOBAB.
An initiative to save the Baobabs of the Northern Okavango
Africa’s scientific wonder and oldest inhabitant are now becoming an endangered species.
The majestic Baobab tree is an African icon that is instantly recognisable by it’s massive trunk and root-like branches. The Bushman called them the ‘upside down tree’ as the branches resemble roots of a tree.
The Baobab is a prehistoric tree species, predating both mankind and the splitting of the continents more than 200 million years ago. It is native to Africa and grows in dry, arid climates. They can live up to 5000 years and reach heights of up to 30 meters. Some trees have been measured with a circumference of 50 meters!
The Adopt-A-Baobab initiative, founded by Jumbo Junction, is headed up by our Camp Manager, Greg, whom is passionate about his roots and trees.
Wisdom is like a baobab tree: no one individual can embrace it. – Togo proverb
WHERE DOES THE PROBLEM LIE?
The Baobab and Elephant – both are icons of Africa. Baobabs are sometimes referred to as “elephants” in the kingdom of plants. Both reach considerable size, reach very old age and even share the same colour spectrum. A symbiotic relationship connects both the Baobab and Elephant.
But in times of drought or elephant overpopulation, this “friendship” turns sour. The gentle giants love to rip large pieces from the trunks of the trees and tear off entire branches to get to the stored water and nutrients.
Jumbo Junction is named after the two major elephant corridors that passes through the camp and into the Delta. Each year in late autumn, elephant herds migrate from as far afield as western Angola, on their way the Delta.
This migration makes Jumbo Junction a spectacular stopover for the you the traveller, but this high population density of elephants leave in their wake, many battered baobab, which will eventually give in to the injuries, collapse and dry out.
WHAT WE DO AS A SOLUTION.
Our Adopt-a-Baobab initiative, is aimed to counter the damage caused by elephants, ensuring the repopulation of this majestic indigenous tree species in the Okavango Delta region and around Jumbo Junction.
Our highly skilled Baobab detectives identify the damaged, battle scarred mature trees; name and label them; then set about on a mission to protect them from any further damage. We apply an regenerative, environmentally friendly slurry – a combination of neem oil, elephant and cattle dung. As with any damaged goods, the trees then require rehabilitation. This can be coupled with the planting of new trees.
EARTHY ROOTS – HOW CAN YOU HELP?
Time to roll up your sleeves and get active – then everything is possible. Adopt-a-Baobab, become a Baobab detective, learn how to make the regenerative slurry. Apply the mask, and plant your very own Baobab tree. Responsible tourism is key.
#responsibletravel
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