Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment Minister, Dr. Dion George, has emphasized that National Parks Week serves as a profound reminder of the shared heritage and awe-inspiring landscapes that define South Africa.

“We celebrate the deep and lasting connection between South Africans and the natural world that surrounds us. South African National Parks Week is about fostering that connection by inviting everyone to experience the wonders these parks offer free of charge,” said Minister George.

He made these remarks at the launch of National Parks Week at Marakele National Park in Thabazimbi, Limpopo, on Sunday. This year, National Parks Week will run from Monday, 9 September, to Sunday, 15 September, with selected parks offering free entry to South African day visitors from 13 to 15 September.

“South Africa presides over a network of 21 national parks, each managed by SANParks [South African National Parks] across six provinces,” noted the Minister. He added that these parks belong to all South Africans, and it is our collective responsibility to protect and preserve them for future generations.

Now in its 19th year, National Parks Week has become a powerful platform to showcase the invaluable natural and cultural treasures that South Africa holds. By offering free access, SANParks extends an open hand to all South Africans, fostering a deeper appreciation for the rich biodiversity and historical significance found within our parks.

“As we reflect on the importance of National Parks Week and our shared responsibility, it is equally important to look ahead. Our vision for South Africa’s national parks cannot be limited to conservation; it must extend to revitalization and growth,” George explained.

He stressed the importance of involving young people in conservation efforts to create a virtuous cycle. “As the upcoming generations connect with nature, they develop a sense of ownership, which drives them to protect these resources for themselves and future generations. Moreover, the development of our parks presents a wealth of opportunities and potential career pathways.”

Minister George highlighted that by learning about biodiversity, ecosystems, and the tourism industry, young people will be able to leverage these natural assets into fulfilling careers in fields such as conservation, ecotourism, and environmental management and protection.

“Our national parks serve as a reminder of what we can achieve when we work together. By combining the efforts of local communities, business leaders, and political representatives in the success of these parks, we strengthen the ties that bind us as a nation,” he said.

Thabazimbi resident Prince Ngaoko expressed his excitement about the SANParks initiative, saying he plans to use the opportunity to teach his two children about wildlife. “Our children grow up without knowing the different types of animals; this is an opportunity to show them the animals,” Ngaoko said.

Nthati Serorisi from Belabela echoed similar sentiments, stating that she plans to take her children to Marakele National Park. “It is important that our kids learn about the different kinds of animals and understand the importance of preserving the country’s heritage,” Serorisi said.

The annual South African National Parks Week provides all South Africans with the opportunity to explore their local national park at no cost. The inaugural National Parks Week was held in 2006 to link the South African national parks system to the global national movement and showcase the best of South Africa’s parks.

The week grants free access to most of the 21 national parks for day visitors, particularly those from local communities. However, free access does not include accommodation facilities or other tourist activities. Some parks will extend the week to include weekends. For individual park dates and participating parks, visit the SANParks website.

Since its inception in 2006, National Parks Week has seen a significant influx of day visitors in all participating parks. SANParks uses this time to cultivate a sense of pride in South Africa’s natural, cultural, and historical heritage as protected and preserved by the national parks system.

SANParks has recently embarked on an ambitious project, SANParks Vision 2040, which aims to cultivate a collective sense of community, healing, and inspiration that resonates with all South Africans. Vision 2040 is about looking to the future and reimagining how conservation is done.

National Parks Week has proven to be a successful campaign, providing education and raising awareness about South Africa’s inclusive approach to conservation. While offering an opportunity to experience the country’s rich natural and cultural heritage, the campaign also highlights sustainable development practices made possible through partnerships with key stakeholders, including local communities, businesses, scientists, and tourists.

Every year, SANParks aims to increase the number of citizens granted free access to national parks. Since the start of the program, nearly 785,621 South Africans have been afforded the opportunity to enter national parks.