The metro continues to fight vandalism at Groenkloof reserve
The Tshwane metro is working to combat criminality at its oldest conservation facility, which is currently celebrating its 130th anniversary.
Groenkloof Nature Reserve has had to bear ongoing vandalism threats.
The reserve was proclaimed by former President Paul Kruger on February 25, 1895, and was the first game sanctuary on the African continent.
It was established to protect game species from overhunting and remains a vital natural space in the capital
Tshwane spokesperson, Lindela Mashigo, said despite conservation efforts, vandalism of infrastructure in the reserve remains a concern.
'Security guards have been deployed to curb criminality, and members of the public are urged to report any incidents to Tshwane Metro Police on 012 358 1906,' he said.
The metro hosted a small event to mark the anniversary, where local stakeholders pledged to reintroduce species such as the oribi and bushbuck that once roamed the area.
Mashigo said the reserve has been proclaimed under the National Environmental Management of Protected Areas Act.
'Initiatives like alien invasive plant removal are ongoing to protect the unique transitional vegetation between grassveld and mixed bushveld,' he said.
According to Mashigo, plans are in place to replace missing signage and improve visitor facilities, while R202 388 has been allocated for repairs and maintenance this financial year.
However, the security funding is centralised under Tshwane's Asset Protection Unit.
He said activities such as hiking, horse riding, mountain biking, and 4×4 trails are managed under a detailed action plan to balance public access with conservation.
For Groenkloof resident Francois Geringer, the reserve is an irreplaceable community asset.
'It's a treasure that must be protected. It's a privilege to have such a beautiful reserve at our doorstep in the middle of the city,' he said.
Geringer, who visits the reserve with his family every two months, said he has noticed positive changes in recent years.
'The reserve is very safe now. Walking and mountain bike trails are well maintained, and the new management team is very involved with upkeep and conservation,' he said.
While mountain biking had declined in the past due to security concerns, he said cyclists are slowly returning and the reserve's hiking community has grown.
'It's great to see a much more diverse group of people from all over the city enjoying the trails.'
However, Geringer believes more could have been done to mark the 130th anniversary and engage the community.
He said the metro's celebrations are often overshadowed by politics, so people don't know about them.
'With all the new housing developments in Pretoria turning nature into concrete, Groenkloof is one of the last reminders of what we've lost.
'It's extremely important to preserve it for future generations. There's also lots of opportunity for school camps and programmes to get children involved.'
ALSO READ: Bogus police make off with R10 000 after robbing man at gun-point in Silverton
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