“I’ve always done well enough to provide for my family, but since Covid-19 struck in 2020, I have seen practically no business.” Visitors to the Kruger National Park who enter through the Numbi Gate have all passed 52-year-old Mablomu’s enterprise.
His regular spot is landmarked by giant woodcarvings of kudus, leopards, elephants and buffalo, and four years ago he added “nursery owner” to his résumé. “I make everything myself, from the giant carvings to growing all the indigenous plants you see here.”
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Last month, tragedy struck Mablomu’s family when his wife passed away. “She’d been sick since 2004. We were still not quite sure what was wrong with her. On January 5, she lost her battle for survival.” Mablomu is now responsible for his three sons.
“Luckily, two of my boys have jobs, so that makes things much easier.” His youngest son is 16 and still in school. “Many local tourists stop here on their way to the park, and they have helped me through December, but the slow times are still coming and then I will need all the help from local tourists that I can get.”
Mablomu can make any woodcarving product on order. To support him by placing an order for indigenous plants or a unique carving, visit his stall on the Numbi Gate Road, or call him on 072-595-4660.
