Issued by: Commission on Restitution of Land Rights
The Land Claims Commission is pleased to announce that a historic Agreement has been reached on the restitution claim lodged on the Eastern Shores of Lake St. Lucia.
The landmark agreement recognises the interests of all primary stakeholders viz. claimants, Nature Conservation and the preservation of the World Heritage Site that is contained in the claimed area. St. Lucia is the largest natural estuary in Southern Africa. In addition, it has been nominated for World Heritage Status. Therefore while claimants' rights have been recognised, the ecotourism potential of the area will be able to continue to contribute to the economic development of Kwazulu Natal.
The principles of the agreement, endorsed by the National Minister of Agriculture and Land Affairs, make provision for those households who were removed from their land between the late 1950s and early 1970s to receive a total amount of R16 680 000 as financial compensation for land rights they lost. In essence each verified claimant household will receive an mount of R30 000. In addition, a further agreement is being finalised between the claimants and the Kwazulu Natal Nature Conservation Services for a 5 hectare Heritage Site for claimants on the Eastern Shores as well as access to various benefits. This includes a financial benefit from the gate levy on tourists entering the area and be paid to a Trust established on behalf of the claimants.
A ceremony to celebrate this remarkable achievement and to appropriately observe the significance of Heritage Day will be held at the site in St. Lucia on Friday, 24 September 1999. This agreement heralds a milestone for restitution outcomes - despite the complexities of the Eastern Shores claim, the forces of land claims, nature conservation, ecotourism and redress have found an equitable resolution.
10 September 1999