SA National Parks Week launched

The 10th South African National Parks Week, in partnership with FNB and Total South Africa, was officially launched by Environmental Affairs Minister Edna Molewa, SANParks said in a statement.

Under the established theme “Know Your National Parks”, it would allow free access to the majority of national parks under SANParks management.

Speaking at the official launch in the Marakele National Park in Limpopo, SANParks CEO Fundisile Mketeni said the National Parks Week initiative was intended to cultivate a culture of pride in all South Africans, following the realisation that the majority of South Africa’s citizens were not visiting parks.

“SANParks started this campaign to encourage all South Africans, especially those from the communities around the parks, to share in what SANParks envisions to be the pride and joy of all South Africans and the world.

“The week is also an opportunity to showcase all national parks as key and affordable local holiday destinations, which offer a unique and enlightening experience that families and individuals from all backgrounds, cultures, lifestyles, and communities could enjoy.

“This is also an effort to reach out and allow all citizens a chance to freely access something they might not have been exposed to,” he said.

Free day visitor access would be granted to South Africans on the presentation of valid identification documentations by those over 16. This was also part of the effort to encourage schools to visit parks during the week.

“The normal daily quota at the gates will still apply during that week and preference will be given based on a first come first served basis. Know your parks and fall in love with conserving nature,” Mketeni said.

FNB public sector banking CEO Danny Zandamela said: “FNB believes in responsible actions by individuals and communities, as they are an imperative factor in protecting and managing the environment. The 10th annual SANParks week is a significant milestone in our unwavering commitment to continue enabling South African citizens to experience our country’s natural heritage.”

“We are also of the view that the ‘green’ agenda cannot be separated from the social upliftment agenda in our country,” he said.

Total South Africa general manager: strategy Pansy Mekwa said: “As a leading energy player in Africa, Total South Africa has a worldwide commitment to respect the environment and promote local, social, and economic development.

“This means making corporate social investment an integral part of our operations and business excellence goals. Our partnership with SANParks affords us the vehicle to fulfill this commitment,” Mekwa said.