PROJECTS UNDERTAKEN BY ULWAZI
Background
The Taung Skull World Heritage Site derives its significance from a fossil of part of a skull recovered in 1924 during the commercial mining of limestone near the town of Taung in the NW Province. As identified by Prof Raymond Dart (right), the skull is that of a juvenile ape-man or hominid, subsequently named Australopithecus africanis (reconstruction shown below). The skull was the first discovery of this species; hence, the skull became the so-called type species and the Taung site became the type location. In 2005, the site was inscripted on the World Heritage List and, in 2007, South Africa’s Minister of Environmental Affairs and Tourism proclaimed the Fossil Hominid Sites of South Africa as a World Heritage Site, of which the Taung site is a component. He also proposed that the NW Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Environment (DACE) become the Management Authority for the Taung site. Although many studies have been carried out since the skull was discovered, DACE rightly indicated that a comprehensive business plan was required to guide it in the development and operations of the site. Ulwazi undertook this project with and through the architectural firm of Bapela Cave Klapwijk (BCK), which is managing the site’s infrastructure development.
Approach
By agreement with the client, no original research was undertaken but referral was made to other studies recently completed on the site, interviews were held with key stakeholders and inputs were secured from a stakeholder workshop. The project was divided into three phases. Phase 1 confirmed a vision and objectives for the site, presented a situational analysis, proposed four use-options for the site (conservation, research, tourism development and education) and outlined strategies by which these use-options could be developed. In addition, strategies were advanced to strengthen the interface with the community and for DACE to develop its management role. In Phase 2, Ulwazi presented a capital development plan, 
which included the protection of sensitive and dangerous sites, the development of on-site roads and visitor transportation, a new entrance complex, an interpretative centre, a science centre, landscaping and parking, upgrades to the picnic area and memorial site, a new education centre and overnight accommodation for learners. Priorities accorded to these developments led to defining a schedule of capital expenditure over a five year period, 2008 - 2013. Phase 3 provided the comprehensive business plan, which included operating projections covering programmes, staffing needs, organizational structure, operating costs and revenues. The study concluded with suggestions on possible sources of funds and a risk assessment.