News

Skukuza – The first day of the Savanna Science Network reinforced the collaborative, skills transfer, and capacitation model applied over the years with young scientists presenting alongside global experts.

Subject matters led through researched and scientific papers underscored the growing challenges facing savanna biodiversity, from climate impacts to landscape-scale ecological dynamics. Within this context, issues discussed include evolution and management of the Savanna ecology over the past 20 years, findings from long-term monitoring programmes – including vegetation change – herbivore dynamics and predator-prey interactions, invasive alien plant and aquatic species covering the management of the plant invaders in the river systems using biological control agents and other methods as well as understanding biodiversity change over time looking at the role of large herbivores such as elephants and rhino as ecosystem engineers and how other species such birds, insects and bats respond to these changes in the ecosystem.

This annual gathering brings together more than 200 leading scientists, researchers, conservationists, and policymakers from around the world to advance critical research and dialogue on savanna ecosystems. This year’s occasion is set to take place from 2 to 5 March 2026 at Kruger National Park. It is also observed in alignment with Kruger National Park’s centenary celebrations with participants also reflecting on the Park’s enduring conservation legacy.

Continuing sessions of the Savanna Science Network are available online and can be accessed on SANParks website under Scientific Services tap.