After 38 years of service at the iconic The Wilds Nature Reserve in Houghton, a volunteer has seen the time fit to retire. Malindi Edison Mahalihali said he began working there in 1983 and his love for plants propelled him to take up the job.
“I love plants because they bring oxygen and life to both humans and animals. They also beautify the environment. While working at The Wilds, it was fulfilling to see people being happy to view various species of plants found there. We have a variety of plants collected from all over Africa.”
He said his favourite tree at the nature reserve is the yellowwood tree because it is evergreen. Although he didn’t plant the yellowwood, Mahalihali planted several trees which he has lost count of, including the most admired big tree situated at Bushwillow Pond.
Member of Friends of The Wilds, Joburg, James Delaney said he met Mahalihali eight years ago when he (Delaney) and other volunteers started chopping and clearing all the overgrowth in The Wilds. He added that Mahalihali and the rest of his team would clear it away each week and as volunteers, they worked on weekends.
“Over time I got to know him, and as other members of his original team retired, he was one of the few remaining.
“I have a had many challenges dealing with the management of The Wilds, and Mahalihali would gently say to me ‘don’t worry James, we will make a plan’. We’d take long walks around the park discussing the plantings, seeds, cuttings and more. He helped propagate hundreds of plants in the formerly defunct nursery, always eager to learn.”
Delaney added, “One of my friends said he told her that with me, for the first time in so many years of working in The Wilds, he understood what his job was and how he could make a positive difference in the world – it wasn’t just about cutting the lawn, it was about caring for all the plants, and making a beautiful place for everyone to enjoy.”
Mahalihali encouraged everyone to treat trees well as damage to them is damage to our lives and ecosystem. For details on how to contribute to Mahalihali’s retirement, visit Friends of The Wilds, Joburg on Facebook.
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