Apostle Battery

Campsite
Help us to continue developing the leaders of the future

Overview Apostle Battery is a campsite situated on the slopes of Table Mountain near Llandudno, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. The site originates from the Second World War and was used as a defence force base for many years. Since 1993 it has been functioning mainly as a youth camp. The shared vision of SanParks (South African National Parks, the owners of the land), the Christian Police Association (who has the lease on the land) and Jabulani African Ministries (who runs most of the camps) is to use the facility to introduce thousands of young people from across South Africa (especially those from previously disadvantaged areas) to the following: Development of core values Leadership skills Character-building Love for and appreciation of nature Skills to make a difference in their own communities.

The facility is, however, in serious need of extensive renovations in order to continue the wonderful work that has changed so many young lives over the past 20 years. If these renovations are not done soon, the campsite will have to close down. We need your help to ensure that the Apostle Battery facility can continue to host camps to develop the full potential of the youth of South Africa.

Camps at Apostle Battery Jabulani Africa Ministries (JAM) is a non-profit organisation dedicated to developing young Africans into upstanding leaders who can bring about positive change in their communities. The JAM organisation operates from the Apostle Battery Campsite, where they host a number of camps aimed at training young Africans to become leaders who possess character and integrity. JAM presents a number of Leadership, Team Building, and Character Development camps at Apostle Battery for youth and adults from across South Africa. These principles and character qualities are taught through interactive activities which require these character qualities in order to succeed. Its location within the boundaries of the Table Mountain National Park makes Apostle Battery the ideal location for camps focusing on biodiversity and the appreciation of nature. Apostle Battery has hosted these camps for many young leaders from numerous South African communities. Camps accommodating school student council groups, church youth groups, the Police Services and even corporate groups have been hosted at this wonderful facility. These camps have clearly made an impact on and brought about positive change regarding the leadership qualities of those who attended. Camps for underprivileged communities Apostle Battery organises camps for a number of local, underprivileged communities. These communities include Hout Bay Harbor Township, Immizamo Yethu Township, Du Noon and Sir Lowrys Pass Village. After potential community leaders have been identified, these young people are brought to Apostle Battery where they undergo intense leadership training and character development. They learn how to serve their communities with conviction and humility, as well as what it means to live according to morals, values, and honourable principles. Once equipped, they return better able to serve and uplift their home communities.

Apostle Battery accommodates an average of more than 3 500 campers per year.

Activities at Apostle Battery

"I have become a better person thanks to Apostle Battery and the JAM team. From a very young age I learned how to respect other people. They have made a big difference in my life by sharing the Gospel with me and I would really like to see these camps grow and change other lives."
Masibulele Jabe (top row, second from right), aged 18, Immizamo Yethu Township. He attended his first camp at the age of 9.

Current situation A very good relationship between SanParks (Table Mountain National Park) and the management of Apostle Battery has developed over the years, as both parties identify with the mission and vision of Apostle Battery. The facilities on the site have, however, deteriorated over the years and the site currently does not meet the SanParks standards for such a facility. An urgent upgrade of the entire site is required to ensure the future of the camps and programmes. This upgrade includes a total renovation of the buildings, water and electricity supply, sewage system, as well as the establishment of fire-safety measures. These renovations need to be completed within the next six months in order for Apostle Battery to obtain a long-term lease from SanParks and ensure the future of the facility. Urgent matters that will receive priority during the renovations include: Upgrade of ablution facilities Hygiene plan for ablution facilities Fire-safety plan for terrain Upgrade of dormitories (roofs, windows, etc.) A project committee was established to manage the renovations. All friends of Apostle Battery, individuals, groups and companies who believe in youth development and identify with the goals of Apostle Battery are invited to assist in making this project a success.

Renovation strategy General principles A project committee, consisting of people with the necessary expertise, has been established and will drive the process. A professional project contractor will be appointed to oversee the renovations. Sub-contractors will be appointed by the project team and project contractor. Volunteers will be used to assist with cleaning, painting and decorations when professional work has been completed.

Action plan An updated terrain plan of the whole facility was drawn. A thorough inspection of all buildings was done. The scope of work was established. The preparation of a bill of quantities for work was completed. Priorities for the renovations were identified. A detailed schedule of work was completed. Renovations will be scheduled per building per site. A project contractor and sub-contractors were appointed. The work commenced during the second week of March.

Project costs A detailed cost analysis was done for the renovations to Apostle Battery. These costs make provision for Renovations to all buildings, including roofs, windows, flooring, etc. Upgrade of all ablution facilities Adherence to hygiene regulations Fire-safety plan and fire-safety equipment Upgrade of water-supply system Professional services where required The total cost for this project amounts to between R1,5 and R2 million rands.

How can you contribute?

We would appreciate any contributions in terms of: Funds (see bank details below) Building materials Professional support Please contact Lianca Fourie (lianca@stellenberg.co.za) or Nickey Cilliers (nickey@futuremanagers.net) if you have any queries. Bank details for financial contributions:
TO RECEIVE A TAX RECEIPT (18A Certificate) USE THIS ACCOUNT: Jabulani African Ministries ABSA Cheque Account Account number: 40 77 33 0050 Branch: 632 005 Reference: Renovation International swift code: ABSAZAJJ For all other donations: Friends of Apostle Battery/ Vriende Apostel Battery ABSA Cheque Account Account number: 45 01 58 631 Branch: 632 005 International swift code: ABSAZAJJ For all USA contributions: The Sending Project 12480 S Blackbob Rd Olathe, KS 66062 Preference 0011