Mike and Norma Rattray, owners of the Mala Mala Game Reserve, have officially joined the list of South African billionaires after the conclusion today of the sale of their world famous asset. At a price of over R70 000 per hectare, the price is full. As might be expected, cynics have been quick to raise claims of skulduggery. So what happens next, though, will be the test of a land restitution process which has too often stuttered. There is much talk of reclaimed farms lying fallow after they were were acquired by the State and transferred back to communities who once owned them. So Mala Mala’s progress under new ownership is sure to be closely watched. And, hopefully, it will serve as a test case of a policy which is grounded in fairness and logic, but has too often slipped up in the implementation. Here are extracts from President Jacob Zuma’s speech delivered at today’s official handover of the Mala Mala title deeds. – AHÂ
Highlights of President Jacob Zuma’s speech:Â
“Negotiations for the settlement of the claim on the land comprising the Mala Mala Game Reserve began in earnest in May 2008 when an initial formal offer was made for the acquisition of the 12 855 hectares.
“After lengthy negotiations, the legal representatives of the land owners considered a settlement amount of  R939m, close to a billion rand, for the purchase of the land in respect of the 13,184 hectares.
“These properties are fully utilised as game land. We are very happy that this claim has been concluded and that land is being handed over today. It is being handed over during a year in which we mark 20 years of freedom and democracy in our country. The restoration of land to rightful owners is one of the biggest responsibilities you gave the democratic government.
“I am pleased to note that the current landowners of the Mala Mala land have accepted the validity of the claim and have not declared any dispute about the merits of the claim.
“We are aware that the majority of claimants are currently living in and around the Lillydale area which is bordering the claimed land. The conditions there are less than favourable as there is inadequate infrastructure development, and most of the households live in abject poverty. There are also high levels of unemployment. The success of this claim therefore brings hope to this community.
“I have noted that there have been further developments which include that an agreement was reached in which the Mala Mala Game Reserve owners will be allowed a transitional period that will expire on the 31 January 2015 which provides for a monthly occupational rental amount of R700 000, in order to allow enough time on the second phase negotiations around the co-management agreement.
“In addition they have committed to contribute all movable assets needed to run the business, as well as goodwill and the company brand estimated to be valued at R38 million, as part of their commitment to the co-management as current business owners.
“The appointment of a strategic partner has been done looking at different variables such as management skills, knowledge of the industry in which the business is currently operating, and the contribution to be invested into the business as a commitment to its sustainability. In terms of the exit strategy capacity building and technical support must be an integral part of the Parties’ Agreement.
“The primary requirement of this capacity building exercise is to develop the skills of the Community to manage the farms more efficiently, even after the partnership has been terminated.
“It should be noted that the role of the Commission in Restitution of Land Rights, in terms of finalizing the remaining Sabie Sand Land Claim against the other outstanding 51 816 ha, of land is expedited.
“I wish to congratulate The N’wandlamhlarhi Community Property Association as you receive your title deed today. “
