Visitors to the Johannesburg Zoo will now be able to buy souvenirs to remember their experience, collect toys and books about their favourite animals.
This is after Joburg Zoo opened its doors to a new upmarket gift and curio shop at the entrance of the zoo parkade.
This is Africa, a name inspired by what Africa has to offers and its vibrant diversity, was officially launched by Member of Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Community Development Councilor Nonhlanhla Sifumba recently.
The cozy shop, styled with uniquely South African décors and wooden caved animals, creates its own products and uses local talent to manufacture and develop some of the goods.
During the launch, Cllr Sifumba commended This is Africa for empowering local suppliers who produce products sold in the store. She said the move will create jobs within the City and boost the city’s economy.
“Since the upgrading of the Veterinary Hospital and the Parkade, JCPZ has been hoping to get the curio shop off the ground. Many potential partners that responded to the first call for proposals did not meet some of the criteria.
“One of the requirements was to sell merchandise that is of local origin. This was in no means to stifle free enterprise, but was to ensure that all visitors enjoyed an authentic, African-experience, when they visited the Joburg Zoo,” MMC Sifumba explained.
Liza-Mari Oberholzer, co-owner of the new shop, said visitors can expect to learn about conservation and learn fun facts about animals while getting a taste of everything that is Africa.
“We hope to give local and international visitors a deeper experience of the Johannesburg Zoo by allowing them to buy into the stories of the animals,” Oberholzer added.
This is Africa will soon be cooperating with the Johannesburg Zoo to develop unique product ranges that doesn’t only depict what people can expect from the Joburg Zoo but also showcase what’s Joburg is all about.
Written by Takalani Sioga
