Latest news with #TransfrontierConservationAreas
The South African
4 days ago
- General
- The South African
South Africa's success story in elephant conservation
Home to 44 000 African elephants and a population that continues to grow, South Africa's conservation efforts have demonstrated success when compared to the decline of elephant numbers in some other countries. 'Our elephants are a national treasure, a keystone species, an integral part of our heritage and plays a significant role in maintaining a balance where the creation of value exceeds consumption, crucial for sustaining and increasing South Africa's social and natural capital, which are fundamental for inclusive socio-economic development,' Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Narend Singh said on Tuesday. As South Africa joins the global community in celebrating World Elephant Day, the Deputy Minister noted that elephants in South Africa have also expanded their range over the past 40 years. Most elephants in the country live in government-protected areas like Kruger National Park, Mapungubwe National Park, and Tembe Elephant Park. These parks are part of larger Transfrontier Conservation Areas (TFCAs), where elephants often move freely across national borders and are shared with neighbouring countries. 'In addition to these large parks, there are 89 smaller, fenced reserves that also support elephant populations. About 6 000 elephants are owned privately or by communities, and in recent years, more and more communities have started to manage elephants themselves,' Singh said. While South Africa's success in recovering elephant populations offers hope for the species, the Deputy Minister warned that it also brings a difficult trade-off in the context of the country's developmental agenda and needs. 'As elephant numbers and ranges expand, encounters between people and elephants have increased, particularly in rural communities living near protected areas. 'Human-elephant conflict can result in crop losses, damage to infrastructure, and in some cases, injury or loss of human life. For many affected families, these incidents can threaten food security and livelihoods. 'Managing these interactions is essential to ensuring that conservation gains do not come at the expense of community well-being. It requires innovative solutions that promote co-existence, such as, improved land-use planning, early-warning systems, community-based monitoring, and benefit-sharing initiatives that recognise the costs of living alongside elephants,' Singh said. While re-imagining conservation in the country, South Africa's aspiration is to ensure that thriving elephants contribute to improving the well-being of people and ecosystems simultaneously. The country's conservation efforts are guided by the four goals of the White Paper policy on Conservation and Sustainable Use of South Africa's Biodiversity, which are aimed at balancing conservation with sustainable use, transformation, access and benefit sharing. The Deputy Minister was addressing the Elephant Indaba at Bonamanzi in KwaZulu-Natal, a province that is home to the second largest elephant population in the country. The Elephant Indaba coincided with World Elephant Day that is being celebrated under the theme: 'Matriarchs' and Memories'. World Elephant Day is a day dedicated to raising awareness of the urgent need to protect and manage the world's elephants. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
IOL News
4 days ago
- General
- IOL News
World Elephant Day: Understanding the challenges of elephant conservation in South Africa
On World Elephant Day, South Africa highlights the importance of elephant conservation under the theme 'Matriarchs and Memories'. Image: Independent Newspapers Archives Today marks World Elephant Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness of the urgent need to protect and manage the world's elephants. The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) said this year's commemoration, under the theme 'Matriarchs' and Memories', coincides with the Elephant Indaba, which is taking place in KwaZulu-Natal, which is home to the second-largest elephant population in the country. The DFFE said South Africa is home to about 44,000 African savanna elephants, and the population continues to grow. 'Most elephants in the country live in government-protected areas like Kruger National Park, Mapungubwe National Park, and Tembe Elephant Park. These parks are part of larger Transfrontier Conservation Areas (TFCAs), where elephants often move freely across national borders and are shared with neighbouring countries. 'In addition to these large parks, there are 89 smaller, fenced reserves that also support elephant populations. About 6,000 elephants are owned privately or by communities, and in recent years, more and more communities have started to manage elephants themselves.' Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad loading Deputy Minister Narend Singh admitted that the growing elephant population offers hope for the species but also presents challenges for neighbouring communities. 'As elephant numbers and ranges expand, encounters between people and elephants have increased, particularly in rural communities living near protected areas. 'Human-elephant conflict can result in crop losses, damage to infrastructure, and in some cases, injury or loss of human life. For many affected families, these incidents can threaten food security and livelihoods. Managing these interactions is essential to ensuring that conservation gains do not come at the expense of community well-being. 'It requires innovative solutions that promote co-existence, such as improved land-use planning, early-warning systems, community-based monitoring, and benefit-sharing initiatives that recognise the costs of living alongside elephants,' Singh said. The department said Singh is hosting a conversation at Bonamanzi in KZN with policy developers, the wildlife industry, civil society groups, NGOs, scientists, researchers, traditional leaders, traditional health practitioners, and communities neighbouring protected areas, to come up with solutions and forge partnerships that will ensure that elephants remain an enduring part of the landscape that also benefits people. THE MERCURY
IOL News
22-05-2025
- IOL News
Adventure awaits: why Gen Z is trading cities for Africa's Transfrontier Conservation Areas
In the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, a Kgalagadi lion walks on a red-sand dune. Image: Unsplash As the world emerges from the restrictions of the pandemic, the travel landscape is evolving, particularly for Generation Z, a demographic known for its disregard for traditional itineraries and iconic landmarks. Instead, these intrepid explorers seek out distinct and immersive experiences, often travelling beyond the beaten path to discover the hidden gems of our planet. Their new travel ethos, focused on authenticity, well-being, and a sustainable approach to tourism, places destinations that foster such principles at the forefront of their preferences. As this wave of new adventurers rises, Africa stands poised to become their playground, thanks to its unique Transfrontier Conservation Areas (TFCAs). For many Gen Z travellers, ticking off bucket-list destinations has become passé. Instead, they lean towards multi-destination trips, coupling nature-based activities with wellness retreats, and prioritising cross-border exploration that allows them to engage with diverse cultures and ecosystems. TFCAs - regions that transcend international boundaries and are established to preserve wildlife and promote sustainable tourism - serve as the perfect canvas for the enriching travel experiences this generation craves. Africa's TFCAs offer a wealth of scenic landscapes, abundant wildlife, and cross-border mobility, making them an ideal backdrop for today's travel-savvy youth. Here are some of the continent's standout TFCAs that appeal to Gen Z's innate desire for adventure, sustainability, and holistic experiences. Victoria Falls is situated on the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia and is part of the Kavango Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area (KAZA). Image: Unsplash Kavango Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area (KAZA) Spanning an area larger than Germany and Austria combined, the Kavango Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area (KAZA) is a magnificent natural mosaic that lies at the confluence of Angola, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. It encompasses diverse ecosystems, including the breathtaking Okavango Delta - a UNESCO World Heritage site - and the thunderous Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. The contrasts in KAZA range from thick woodland to sprawling savanna, offering a rich tapestry of experiences. The Delta pulsates with life, while the Falls roar majestically; together, they provide the perfect backdrop for both exhilarating activities and peaceful retreats. Outdoor lovers can embark on guided canoe trips through the Delta, join walking safaris, or simply unwind amidst the nature that flourishes in this sprawling region. Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park The Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park, formed by merging Kruger National Park in South Africa with Gonarezhou National Park in Zimbabwe and Limpopo National Park in Mozambique, represents a vast expanse of wilderness that invites Gen Z adventurers to immerse themselves in nature. Here, wildlife abounds - from majestic elephants and elusive leopards to numerous antelope species vital to local ecosystems. Visitors can engage in thrilling game drives, hike through diverse landscapes, or enjoy canoeing along the rivers, combining wildlife observation with cultural experiences through local festivals and traditional craftsmanship. The park's commitment to conservation and community engagement makes it an ideal destination for those looking to connect with nature while supporting sustainable practices. An aerial perspective of Namibia's Fish River Canyon, which is part of the |Ai-|Ais/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park. Image: Unsplash Ai-Ais/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park Situated at the border of South Africa and Namibia, the Ai-Ais/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park showcases the dramatic meeting of mountains and desert. It is a land of stark beauty that challenges conventional notions of a safari, revealing a haven for succulent plants and unique fauna that thrive in arid conditions. The open skies invite stargazing, while local Nama communities share their ancient traditions and connection to the land with visitors. With adaptable wildlife and opportunities for relaxation at the Ai-Ais Hot Springs Resort, this park offers Gen Z travellers an authentic interaction with nature and culture. The blend of adventure and relaxation makes it a perfect getaway for those seeking both thrill and tranquillity. Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park For adventurers yearning for an unforgettable desert safari experience, the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is a must-visit. Formed from the amalgamation of South Africa's Kalahari Gemsbok National Park and Botswana's Gemsbok National Park, this park is renowned for its iconic black-maned Kalahari lions and awe-inspiring landscapes dominated by rolling red dunes. With an unfenced boundary allowing wildlife to roam freely, Kgalagadi provides unique opportunities for both vehicle-based and walking safaris. Whether capturing breathtaking nature portraits or witnessing the stark beauty of the desert, this park promises an authentic safari experience like no other. The park's remote location also offers a chance for digital detox, allowing travellers to disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature. The Drakensberg/Maloti Mountains shared between Lesotho and South Africa. Image: Unsplash
