By David Hunter
Using our overland vehicle myself and the rest of the Handshake team negotiated treacherous roads and sweltering heats in order to reach our day 13 objective, The Vervet Monkey Foundation.
Departing from the vehicle we were left with a small trek to the foundation gates, giving me time to speculate on our upcoming visit to the facility.
Upon arriving at the entrance of the VMF, I was humbled by the simple yet effective enclosures seemingly built on the back of dedication, commitment and good old fashion hard work. One of its founders, Arthur Hunt, embodies the very characteristics that allowed the VMF to flourish from a simple conservation idea into the leading sanctuary for vervet care and rehabilitation.
Arthur greeted us as we entered the foundation, carrying an aura of wisdom and experience. He outlined the turbulent history of the VMF; the legal and legislative battles he encountered on his quest for the protection of the Vervet only seize to function as examples of one man’s dedication and commitment.
Throughout our insightful tour of the VMF, it struck me that the key to its continued success does not reside solely on donations, but in its commitment of all its volunteers and workers. Without their dedication to conservation the future of the VMF certainly be grim.
Heading back to our overland vehicle I reminisced on the day, and the questions I pondered on during the walk to the VMF early that morning. I suppose my original expectations of the VMF were of a lavish facility funded by a higher government body. However I witnessed a facility that took the materials at its disposal and turned them into a remarkable sanctuary for a truly majestic monkey.
I eagerly anticipate my next visit to the VMF, it truly is a fantastic example of one man’s ambition and the devotion of a team of highly skilled volunteers.
Until my next blog, keep up the clicking………..
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