An Introduction

Five friends purchased Land near the coastal village of Haga Haga in the Eastern Cape in 2000. The land is about 8 km. from the sea (with beautiful deserted beaches) and is just over 300 Hectares of rolling ‘bush veld’ with lush greenbelts, bordered on by the Quko River. Notably there’s also a fair share of alien invasive vegetation, however, this mostly provides us with an abundance construction timber and firewood.
We currently have five resident members, two toddlers (who were both born on the farm) and a baba, and three wonderful people in the process of joining. Our community is open to all who are searching for a creative, innovative, stimulating and harmonious environment that is congenial for the practical quest of ego dissolution. “Khula Dhamma” means to “grow in Dhamma”. “Dhamma” or “Dharma”, in Sanskrit, is defined in eastern scriptures as “the natural universal laws, whose observance enables one to free oneself from degradation and suffering.” We find meditating together daily or whenever convenient (not always easy with two dynamic toddlers) to be very helpful.
More serious and committed work (still with only up to 4 people) began in 2003. Since then the development projects have remained fairly small-scale, yet, progressively and noticeably leading towards self-sufficiency. We’re fortunate to continue welcoming a steady flow of like-minded and supportive volunteer workers (wwoofers).
Geographically we are situated on the southern tip of the sub-tropical climate, which allows for an extensive variety of cultivation. In the garden we practice a blend of intuitive, natural farming, bio-dynamics and permaculture. We are deeply inspired by the early explorations of Findhorn and those happening at Perelandra. Our intention is for all our food production and land management to be in direct co-creation with the plant Devas and the resident Nature Spirits.
Thus far we have fenced off about an acre of land around the house for vegetable and fruit production, we’ve set up a couple of bee hives, we have installed a solar powered pump in an abandoned borehole (that seems to be tapping into a very rich underground spring) and we have built our first composting toilet. We also have a hot water system for bathing and the solar panels give us enough electricity for charging various convenient technological gadgets as well as resounding a wealthy diversity of music. Naturally there are a numerous projects ongoing that enhance our lifestyle.
At present all residents have moved into their own dwellings (one straw bale, two cob- two thatched and one "green" roof). The renovated farmhouse and two satellite rondavels serve as accommodation for visitors and volunteers.
We have two ridgeback dogs and one funky feline. We will soon attempt to have chickens again (previous attempts were sabotaged by the local gennet) for eggs to supplement our (and our dogs') vegetarian diet.
Immense satisfaction comes from simple, natural living. Enthusiasm for learning and versatility leads us to share our knowledge and skills freely. The work we commonly share is gardening, maintenance, building and childcare.
All community decisions and projects are granted by “soft” consensus. As we are still few members, Native American-style talking circles have proven to be a preferred forum for communicating tribal matters. However, as more people join it is likely that an appointed facilitator will aid discussions. Transparency is the key factor in all inter-personal dealings, be it expressing our dreams and frustrations or handling community expenses.
Projects are chosen based on their wholesome, humanitarian and uplifting nature i.e. a seed bank, hemp plantation etc. Land has also been made available for leasing out to non-community projects. These would be selected ventures that are not necessarily run by community members, but would still maintain a cooperative and mutually beneficial relationship with the community.
Mother Nature and our own health are very precious to us so we take gentle care to nurture them both. We try to become aware of the potential consequences of all our actions so we may consciously steer them towards growth and well-being- for us and the Earth.
We all share a growing concern for the current greed-fuelled trend of the degeneration and adulteration of our food supply. Much joy comes from sharing healthy, colourful meals fresh from a garden that’s grown with love.
Additional information can be found on our listing at www.ic.org .

With much of the groundwork in place it’s clear that to now continue growing we need more like-minded, enthusiastic and committed pioneers to help Khula Dhamma to blossom to its full potential!