The Nyanga Hiking Club accompanied 65 children from Nyanga for a hike at Newlands Forest. Photographer: Armand Hough / Independent Newspapers
Cape Town - The Nyanga Hiking Club celebrated the start of the spring hiking season this weekend after a winter hiatus.
The club celebrates its fourth anniversary this year, since its inception in 2020 by co-ordinator Dani Saporetti.
The initiative, in collaboration with local members of the Nyanga community, aims to teach the transformational power of nature within Nyanga and surrounding township areas.
Since then, the club has organized monthly hikes through collaborative effort with passionate hikers and local members of Nyanga community - all on a volunteer basis - that provide children with snacks and transportation at no cost to families.
Saporetti said the initiative was particularly vital in a community where access to natural spaces was limited due to financial constraints and access to recreational facilities.
He said it was vital that every child got the opportunity to grow up with the influence of nature.
“Every child deserves the space to feel free. Every child needs nature. Not just the ones whose parents appreciate nature. Not only those of a certain economic class or culture or set of abilities. Every child.”
Saporetti says hiking promotes teamwork and awareness of nature.
Khaya Mpinda, a Nyanga Hiking Club organiser, said their vision was to expose the youth to nature as a means to deter them from negative influences such as crime and teenage pregnancy.
"Our goal is to take the youth out of the location and create great experiences that add to their development," said Mpinda.
"With around 120 members and growing, the club is not just about hiking; it’s about shaping future leaders" Mpinda said.
The integration of new members, including 63-year-old Mikki Gocini, who hiked for the first time, is testament that nature remains a lifelong teacher. “I have never hiked before in 63 years, but the experience has been wonderful, and I never knew hiking would be so therapeutic,” said Gocini.
“As learners navigate trails together, participants learn not only about the environment but also about the impact of their actions – understanding concepts like littering and community responsibility,” said Saporetti.
With plans to continue enriching hikes until May next year, the Nyanga Hiking Club stands as a beacon of hope within Cape Town.
grecia.mgolombane@inl.co.za
Cape Argus
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