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31 July 2025

South Africa Celebrates The Role Of Rangers As Custodians Of Natural And Cultural Heritage

This year’s main World Ranger Day was celebrated at Table Mountain National Park, whilst different regions of SANParks throughout the country also observed the significance of the day. The main event was led by Dr Dion George, Minister of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment, who was joined by SANParks Chairperson, Ms Pam Yako.

World Ranger Day is observed worldwide on 31 July to commemorate and appreciate the role of rangers as well as acknowledge those who lost their lives in the line of duty.

Attention was drawn to the myriad and critical roles rangers perform in the disciplines of wildlife monitoring and research, community engagement, safety and security, visitor management, and environmental education visitor management. An understanding of the various roles played by rangers also provided context to the appropriateness of this World Ranger Day’s theme which is “Rangers, Powering Transformative Conservation”.

SANParks emphasized that due to their experiences and insights, it has also become feasible to project a ranger of the future who will also embody the integration of technology, conservation, community development, and regenerative tourism. A ranger who will be a champion and transformation agent of inclusive conservation in line with Vision 2040.

Vision 2040 is a long-term strategy by SANParks of a reimagined conservation that is aligned with social justice, economic growth, and inclusivity, by ensuring nature and people thrive together.

Activities to observe the day were held across SANParks’ regions. These are:

  • The Arid Region held its event at Mokala National Park. Activities included drill practice, shooting competition, an imbizo for section rangers and park manager culminating in a sports event and dinner. For more information contact Fayroush Ludick: Tel: 041 508 5402, Cell: 082 888 0201 or Email: [email protected]
  • Frontier Region held its event at Camdeboo National Park outside Graaf Reinet and was joined by rangers from Addo Elephant Park, Karoo and Mountain Zebra National Park. They conducted a simulated poaching exercise involving aircraft and a ground team of rangers searching for “suspects”. They also had a fixed display in the area showcasing equipment used in the execution of rangers’ duties, including the Addo marine vessel.
  • Garden Route National Park (Tsitsikamma, Knysna, and Wilderness) held its event at the Knysna High Sports Field. Retired rangers received certificates of appreciation. For more information please contact Phokela Lebea: 071 2121 330 or Email: [email protected]
  • The Kruger National Park Region conducted a low-key wreath laying ceremony at the Paul Kruger Gate Ranger Monument. For more information please contact Rey Thakhuli Mobile: 073 373 4999 or Email: [email protected]