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13 May 2025 Media Release: Fire-Ready Fitness – Michela Perdichizzi Shapes Stronger, Faster GRDM Firefighters

Media Release: Fire-Ready Fitness – Michela Perdichizzi Shapes Stronger, Faster GRDM Firefighters

14 May 2025

Local Personal Trainer, Michela Perdichizzi offered training to assist GRDM’s Firefighters recently. Fitness is one of the most important parts of being a firefighter, above and beyond skills to fight fires and making life-saving decision.

Carrying equipment, rescuing victims, and navigating hazardous and challenging environments – especially wildfires, can be quite a challenge for firefighters. Additional to the intensity and conditions of fires, the challenging topography of the district, including mountainous, and most often tricky sandy coastal terrain, firefighters need to remain calm during incidents. Dedication to fitness and conditioning are vital components that help firefighters to perform tasks more efficiently and effectively, leading to quicker reaction times, situational awareness, and better outcomes.

Exercise has natural positive effects on mental health, reduces stress, improves mood, and improves resilience, which are important to face challenging situations and emotional stressors. A good fitness level is also linked to the ability to work safely and effectively in high-stress and quick decision-making environments. Importantly, maintaining good fitness levels helps firefighters stay in shape and prevent injuries, thus allowing them a prolonged career.

“After being introduced to the firefighting world of the GRDM firefighters, and learning the background, Michela did not think twice to offer assistance to our firefighters, introducing a variety and somewhat unconventional mixture of exercises,” said GRDM fire chief, Deon Stoffels.

These included:

  • Pilates type stretches
  • High-intensity interval training,
  • HYROX (running, functional exercises, repetition, stations)
  • stretching movements
  • boxing
  • holistic targeting of all functional muscle groups

Stoffels added: “Interestingly, most of the exercises introduced excluded weight training, and focused on testing the body’s own strength, power, and flexibility ”.

GRDMs firefighters who took part in the sessions up to now are unanimous in their views that Michela is certainly challenging them mentally and physically. They certainly loved the challenge and look forward to more sweat and tears.

Catch Michela Perdichizzi here: https://www.facebook.com/michela.alcarazgonzalez

Related Article:  https://www.up.ac.za/news/post_3315222-up-expert-opinion-global-employee-health-and-fitness-month-wellness-should-move-from-the-periphery-to-the-core-of-workplace-strategy-up-exercise-scientist

 

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13 May 2025 Media Release: Holy Cross Primary School visits GRDM Firefighters

Media Release: Holy Cross Primary School visits GRDM Firefighters

13 May 2025

The Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) Firefighters were visited by learners from the Holy Cross Primary School in George on Wednesday, 9 May 2025. The event, described as an enjoyable experience where both learners and teachers were made aware and educate on very important basic fire safety dos and don’ts.

Firefighters enjoyed educating and entertaining the youngsters, who showed a keen interest in the field of firefighting. Presentations were made about essential fire safety elements around the home, at school, as well as what to do when spotting a fire elsewhere. In a fun-filled and interactive way, learners were also taught the relevant emergency contact numbers of the emergency services.

“The learners enjoyed interacting with real firefighters and trying on the protective gear,” said Elana Basson-Coetzer, Platoon Commander.

“The ‘little ones certainly enjoyed their visit at the GRDM fire station.”

The young learners enjoyed their time with the firefighters.

The most exciting part of the visit to the fire station was when water was sprayed from the high-pressure hose, allowing the children to experience how flames are extinguished. They were also fascinated seeing how foam is generated, which is used to remove oxygen from certain fire types.

The visit was facilitator by Elana Basson-Coetzer and learner firefighter Corne Fourie. Both indicated that they equally enjoyed empowering the youth of Garden Route,  and the leaders of tomorrow.

Please contact Devonia Cupido, Acting Station Officer: Fire Safety & Training, at Devonia@gardenroute.gov.za if you would like our firefighters to visit your location.

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6 May 2025 Media Release: Strengthening Our Partnership for Youth Empowerment in 2025

Media Release on behalf of Bighearts Africa: Strengthening Our Partnership for Youth Empowerment in 2025

6 May 2025

Reflecting on our successful collaboration in 2023 and 2024, Bighearts Africa is proud of the impact made through the YES Program in various departments of the Garden Routhe District Municipality (GRDM). Successful placements were made in the EPWP, IDP, Traffic, IT, Waste Management, Tourism, and Records departments. With the support of the GRDM, over thirty young individuals gained valuable work experience, setting the stage for a brighter future.

At Bighearts Africa, we believe in the power of opportunity and mentorship to uplift youth and transform communities. Our goal is a future where every young person gains essential work experience and skills.

This success wouldn’t have been possible without Christine de Wet, our dedicated host liaison. A strong host liaison ensures a smooth transition into the workplace. Christine represents everything we value – nurturing connections, fostering collaboration, and offering unwavering support to both youth and hosts. Her leadership has been key in creating lasting opportunities for young people.

As we look ahead to 2025, we are eager to continue and expand our partnership with the GRDM, further strengthening our shared commitment to youth empowerment, skills development, and local socio-economic growth.

Our vision for the coming year includes:

  • Enhanced Training & Mentorship: Provide structured, quality mentorship to improve job retention and career growth.
  • Workforce Development: Offer tailored skills development that aligns with local needs and supports community growth.
  • Sustainable Employment Pathways: Strengthen connections between youth and employers to foster long-term employment.

Let’s build on the momentum of 2024 and create even greater opportunities for young people in the Garden Route District.

Olivia Goosen: Finding Confidence, Purpose and a Path Forward

Since joining the YES Youth Program, Olivia Goosen has embraced every opportunity to grow. She began working in the Solid Waste section of Knysna Municipality, doing data capturing, and is now assisting in the Traffic department with administrative tasks and handling phone calls. This shift not only broadened her experience but helped her develop practical skills she’ll use for life.

Through her work, Olivia has learned how to respond to emails professionally, communicate with the public about traffic enquiries, and capture data more efficiently in Excel. Her supervisors, Natalie Salmons and Randall Bower, were incredibly supportive and approachable, guiding her with patience and care. “They were always there to assist when I needed help,” she says.

Before the program, Olivia faced the emotional weight of repeated college rejections due to funding issues, which left her feeling stuck. But instead of giving up, she found purpose in her work. “The program made me realise I can do anything I put my mind to,” she says. “I used to be shy and wanted to be in my own corner, but now I’m not afraid to take the lead when it comes to getting something done.”

Olivia is now supporting both her household and extended family with groceries and electricity. Her next goal is to study administrative management—and you just know she’s going to make it happen.

Jay-dene Botha: From Listless Days to a Life with Purpose

Before joining the YES Youth Program Jay-dene’s days had felt long and empty. “I spent most of my time at home, not really doing anything,” she recalls. “I didn’t have a sense of purpose.” That all changed when she began working in the Property Section at the Garden Route District Municipality.

What started as a chance to gain experience, quickly became something more meaningful. Under the guidance of a supervisor whom she describes as “an exceptional role model”. Jay-dene began to see what’s possible when you take pride in your work. “She handles difficult situations with grace and delivers excellent results. Watching her has really motivated me to push myself,” Jay-dene says of her mentor.

Today, she walks into work with confidence and goes home with a sense of pride. The relief of no longer being idle has been matched by the joy of being able to support her mother, who was once the sole breadwinner in their home. “Now I help pay the bills,” she says. “It feels good knowing I’m making things easier for her.”

Jay-dene is a star. She’s grabbed opportunity with both hands and hasn’t forgotten to show up for the people who’ve always shown up for her.

Lutho Kemele: Dreams for the Future, Revived!

Although he already had a Diploma in Business Management, Lutho Kemele couldn’t seem to find any opportunities to utilise his qualifications.  “I didn’t know what to do or how to advance in my career,” he says. “This program gave me a new outlook on life.”

Placed at the Mossel Bay Municipality, Lutho quickly got stuck in, doing business licensing, data capturing, and more. “It’s been great,” he says. “I did a lot and learned a lot.” He credits much of this growth to the people around him. Mentors like Lukhanyo, Mabatho and Ntombifuthi not only showed him the ropes, but helped him believe in his own potential. “I’ve learned many valuable things that I’ll implement in my life going forward.”

Lutho has big dreams, seeing himself owning properties and building his own business. He’s already witnessing change right at home. “We managed to buy a few new things for the house,” he says, “and I even saved some money for my own needs.”

Sometimes a little belief, good people, and an open door at just the right time is all it takes to start dreaming again!

Angelo Manho: A Voice for His Community

Angelo Manho, now working in the Power Station Department at the George municipal buildings, joined the YES Youth Program at a time when hope felt distant. Despite applying for many jobs, he struggled to find work—often turned away simply because he hadn’t yet obtained a driver’s license.

Since joining the program, Angelo has not only gained practical workplace experience but also a deeper understanding of the issues facing his community. “The work has taught me a lot,” he shares, “especially about what people are struggling with most, and how we as workers can help improve things for them.”

With the support of mentors like Stephan Blok, Angelo has learned valuable professional skills and developed strong work ethics. Now, he’s also able to support his family in meaningful ways. “I can give a portion of my money to my parents each month, and I also help my mom buy things like cleaning products for the house.”

Angelo’s journey is a reminder that with the right support, young people can rise above their circumstances, find purpose—and bring home the Handy Andy, too.

Featured Image Caption: All role-players involved in the successful Bighearts Africa YES Programme, pictured with Christine de Wet (Host Liaison) and the GRDM team led by former Executive Manager, Trix Holtzhausen.

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17 April 2025 Media Release: Blitz Operations Conducted at Spaza Shops in Haarlem

Media Release: Blitz Operations Conducted at Spaza Shops in Haarlem

 17 April 2025

On Wednesday, 9 April 2025, the Environmental Health Practitioners (EHP) from the Outeniqua region of the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) conducted a joint inspection in Haarlem, in conjunction with the Uniondale South African Police Service (SAPS) and Law Enforcement Officers from the George Municipality (Uniondale/ Haarlem).

Three shops were visited and thoroughly inspected.

According to Executive Mayor, Andrew Stroebel, “the health and safety of our residents remain a top priority for the Garden Route. These joint inspection blitzes are not only essential for enforcing compliance, but also for continuously educating business owners about the importance of maintaining hygienic environments—especially where food is stored, handled, or sold”.

During the joint inspection the following issues were identified:

  • Inadequate pest control (rodent infestation);
  • Animals on the premises (cats inside food area);
  • Structural shortcomings (water leaking through open seams and cracks in the ceiling);
  • Food products not complying with the labelling legislation were dealt with accordingly.

According to Janine Koopman, GRDM EHP, two shops were closed on grounds of non-compliance with the Regulations governing General Hygiene Requirements for Food premises, the Transport of food and Related matters, section 5, sub regulation (3) (a)(i); (c)(ii), (d)(v), and the Garden Route District Municipality Municipal Health By-Laws, PG. No. 8018 of 10 December 2018, Chapter 2 Relating to Health Nuisances, section 6, (4) (a)(b)(c).

Activities during the Joint Inspection in Haarlem

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10 April 2025 NQF Level 4, Occupational Certificate: Early Childhood Development Practitioner (97542) – 100 Training Opportunities for Unemployed

Health and Welfare SETA Training Opportunities 

Programme: NQF Level 4, Occupational Certificate: Early Childhood Development Practitioner (97542) x 100

Another Garden Route Skills Mecca Initiative!

The Garden Route District Municipality invites unemployed persons currently residing within the Garden Route district municipal area, to apply for training opportunities within the Local Government sphere for a qualification as part of a Garden Route Skills Mecca Initiative. Preference will be given to persons with disabilities. Applicants should be between the ages of 18 and 60.

Opportunities are currently available within the following municipal areas within the Garden Route district: George x 15, Mossel Bay x 15, Knysna x 14, Ladismith x 14, Bitou x 14, Hessequa x 14 and Oudtshoorn x 14.

Apply here:

Applicants must apply using the GRDM online system called Unemployed Solutions (red button) found at:               https://skillsmecca.gardenroute.gov.za/.

Programme and Entry Requirements:

Applications need to have the following entry requirements:

  • NQF Level 3 qualification, equivalent to Grade 11

Exit Level Outcomes

  • Plan and prepare broad-phase learning environment and stimulating activities that meet the holistic needs of all children in centre-based or non-centre-based settings.
  • Facilitate and mediate all aspects of the daily programme in a centre-based or non-centre based setting.
  • Observe, assess and record each child’s progress according to the age and stage.
  • Compile a report of each child’s progress.
  • Maintain and promote the well-being, health, nutrition, safety and protection of children.

Please note that no stipends will be paid for this training.

THE GARDEN ROUTE DISTRICT MUNICIPALITY WILL ONLY CONSIDER APPLICATIONS COMPLETED IN FULL AND IF THE FOLLOWING DOCUMENTS HAVE BEEN UPLOADED (NB: The system only recognises PDF format documents):

  • A copy of a South African ID Document certified within the last six months.
  • A copy of your highest educational qualifications certified within the last six months.
  • An updated copy of your CV.

For any enquiries, do not hesitate to contact Reginald Salmons at 044 803 1363, Ms Dineo Ramasesane at 044 803 1447 or Mrs Nolwando Sambokwe at 044 803 1345, during office hours only. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted. Should candidates not be contacted within one month of the closing date, they must consider their application as unsuccessful.

Download the notice here:

Join the Garden Route WhatsApp Channel for Skills, Jobs and Tenders, by clicking here with your phone: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va92oJoJpe8eiTvq3q33

Closing date: 17 April 2025     
Notice number: 35/2025

10 April 2025 Drivers License (Code C) 140 Training Opportunities for Unemployed

Drivers License (Code C) 140 Training opportunities for unemployed

Another Garden Route Skills Mecca Initiative!

Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) invites unemployed persons between ages of 18 to 40, male or female residing within the Garden Route District Municipal area, to apply for an opportunity to be trained for a Drivers License Code C as part of a  Garden Route Skills Mecca initiative. Opportunities are currently available within all the seven (7) municipal areas of the Garden Route district:

Hessequa, Mossel Bay, George, Knysna, Bitou, Oudtshoorn and Kannaland.

 The total number of opportunities available for each municipal area is 20 each.

Applicants must register and apply using the online UNEMPLOYMENT SOLUTIONS (RED BUTTON) on the Garden Route Skills Mecca Web site at https://skillsmecca.gardenroute.gov.za/ or browse to this shortlink: https://tinyurl.com/34unespk

 Programme and Entry Requirements

  • Applicants must have Grade 11 (NQF 3) or equivalent as a minimum requirement.
  • Persons must be between ages of 18 to 40 .
  • Men and women must reside within the boundaries of the Garden Route district.

Scope of Qualification

A qualified learner will be able to:

  • Demonstrate attitudes related to drivers to reduce driving risks and maintain safety on the roads.
  • Demonstrate techniques to improve driving skills and apply the system of vehicle control.
  • Drive a motor vehicle in accordance with the system of vehicle control requirements with specific reference to the applicable K53 tests.

THE GARDEN ROUTE DISTRICT MUNICIPALITY WILL ONLY CONSIDER APPLICATIONS COMPLETED IN FULL AND IF THE FOLLOWING DOCUMENTS HAVE BEEN UPLOADED: 

  • An updated CV
  • Certified South African ID Copy (ID Card both sides must be copied).
  • Certified copy of highest educational qualifications

For any enquiries, do not hesitate to contact Reginald Salmons at 044 803 1363, or Sisanda Sajini at 044 803 1450 during office hours only.  

Only short-listed candidates will be contacted. Should candidates not be contacted within two months of the closing date, they must consider their application as unsuccessful.

Download the notice here

Join the Garden Route WhatsApp Channel for Skills, Jobs and Tenders, by clicking here with your phone: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va92oJoJpe8eiTvq3q33

Closing date:  25/04/2025
Notice number: 37/2025

8 April 2025 Media Release: Regional Tourism Office will be at the World Travel Market (WTM) Africa 2025 with Local Tourism Offices and Several Businesses

Media Release: Regional Tourism Office will be at the World Travel Market (WTM) Africa 2025 with Local Tourism Offices and Several Businesses

8 April 2025

Garden Route District Municipality’s (GRDM) Regional Tourism Office will once again join more than 6000 travel industry professionals at the World Travel Market (WTM) Africa 2025, held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) from 9 – 11 April 2025.  Local tourist products from the Garden Route and Klein-Karoo will attend the WTM Africa as part of a collective initiative. According to Executive Mayor Andrew Stroebel, “the WTM, annually brings travel professionals from around the world together to connect, network, and explore business opportunities within the African travel market”.

“It is therefore important for the GR&KK to be present at this platform to promote the offerings of the region, alongside Local Tourism Offices”.

Key features of WTM Africa include:

  • Exhibitions to showcase destinations, travel services, and products.
  • Networking that provides opportunities to meet industry peers and potential business partners.
  • Conferences and Seminar sessions on the latest trends, insights, and innovations in the travel industry.
  • Pre-scheduled meetings to facilitate business discussions and deal-making.

Visiting the World Travel Market enables the Regional Tourism Office to establish valuable relationships and collaborate with global industry leaders and travel professionals. They will gain valuable insights into the latest trends and innovations in the travel industry, helping the office to remain competitive and well-informed.

This year, the GRDM Executive Mayor, Alderman Andrew Stroebel, will attend the event alongside officials from the Regional Tourism Office.  According to Stoebel, “By attending this prestigious event provides an excellent opportunity for Local Tourism Offices and tourist products in the region to showcase the region’s attractions, services, and unique experiences to a global audience, increasing visibility and attracting more tourists to the region. The Regional Tourism Office is responsible for promoting the entire region on international platforms like this, ensuring the GR&KK brand is recognized and positioned as a preferred travel destination of choice in the highly competitive tourism industry in the world,” Mayor Stroebel said.

Come join us and our esteemed stakeholders at Stand number: Q03 on the following dates:

  • Wednesday, 9 April 2025: 10:00 – 18:00
  • Thursday, 10 April 2025: 10:00 – 18:00
  • Friday, 11 April 2025: 10:00 – 16:00

Our stakeholders include:

  • Mossel Bay Tourism
  • Plett Tourism
  • Emily Moon
  • Simola Hotel Country Lodge & Spa
  • Crags Country Lodge
  • George Wilderness & Uniondale
  • Wilderness Hotel
  • Redberry Farm
  • Hessequa Tourism
  • Seeplaas
  • Cape Saint Blaize
  • Offshore Adventures
  • Issaquena Heights Boutique Hotel
  • Visit Knysna
  • Lithemba Arts & Crafts
  • Parkside Guesthouse
  • Rooiberg Lodge
  • Cango Caves
  • De Zeekoe Guest Farm
  • RJ Tours

For those who are in Cape Town over the next few days, pop-in at the GR&KK exhibition to connect, explore and support our regional and local tourism offices.

Featured Image Caption:  A photo from a previous year’s World Travel Market (WTM) Africa, showcasing various products at the Garden Route & Klein Karoo stand.

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24 March 2025 GRDM Hosts Fun Run to Raise Awareness for World TB Day

Media Release: GRDM Hosts Fun Run to Raise Awareness for World TB Day

24 March 2025

In commemoration of World Tuberculosis (TB) Day which is today, 24 March, the Environmental Health Practitioners (EHP) from the Garden Route District Municipality’s (GRDM) Hessequa Office, in collaboration with the local Child Welfare South Africa office in Hessequa, hosted a 5km fun run on Saturday to celebrate and raise awareness about TB.

The fun run took place in Riversdale, starting at the Town Sports Stadium (“Steg”). Approximately 120 community members, including councillors, and local rugby players, participated in the event.

The event was officially opened by Councillor Jobieth Hoogbaard, the Portfolio Chairperson for Community Services. During a brief speech, Hoogbaard welcomed everyone and mentioned that it is always enjoyable to participate in community initiatives—not only for the fun of it but because there is always an important purpose behind them.

“The purpose of this fun run is, first and foremost, to raise awareness about TB and to convey the message that TB can be prevented and is easily treatable. Too many people in our communities die from TB every year, and enough is enough,” said Hoogbaard.

The theme for the 2025 World TB Day is ‘YES! WE CAN END TB: COMMIT, INVEST AND DELIVER.

Among the participants were several dedicated young athletes who took the fun run very seriously.

The GRDM Executive Mayor, Andrew Stroebel, who is also a local resident, attended the celebrations. Stroebel used the opportunity to engage with residents and handed out water and cool “ysies” to participants at the water point, encouraging them along the way. Towards the end of the festivities, Mayor Stroebel conducted the lucky draw and handed over the power bank prize, to the lucky winner. He delivered the closing remarks, thanking the participants and everyone present, especially the children, for their support.

The Riversdale Municipal Health Office wants to use this opportunity to thank all individuals and shop owners for the donations received. “We were quite surprised with the turnout this morning as well as with the support we received from both our superiors and our local community,” said Bronwen Moolman, one of the organising members from the Riversdale office.

A special word of gratitude to:

Sponsors:

  • GRDM Communications
  • Child Welfare SA – Riversdale
  • Riversdale Superspar
  • JC Butchery
  • Era Soda
  • Klein Begin Ice
  • Bubble Boys Space
  • The staff of the local FNB branch
  • Engen One Stop – Riversdale
  • Riversdale Hospital
  • EMS
  • Droom
  • CPF Riversdale
  • DJ – Ethan du Preez
  • Sandra Daries
  • Hessequa Municipality

Acknowledgments:

Riversdale Blues Rugby Club – for assisting with the setup and cleanup of the stadium.

Riversdale Town Rugby Club – for allowing the use of their home field.

Caption: Exciting Activities from This Morning’s Fun Walk/Run!

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19 March 2025 MEDIA RELEASE: Paediatric Surge Season: Protecting Young Children from Diarrhoea and Respiratory Illnesses

MEDIA RELEASE: Paediatric Surge Season: Protecting Young Children from Diarrhoea and Respiratory Illnesses

19 March 2025

As the period between November and May marks the paediatric surge season, healthcare professionals are urging parents and caregivers to remain vigilant in preventing and managing diarrheal and respiratory related disease in young children. Both diarrhoea and pneumonia remain one of the leading health risks for infants and young children, yet it is both treatable and preventable with prompt action.

November 2024 to 3 March 2025 stats shows that 1585 children in the Garden Route district were hospitalised at public hospitals with pneumonia. The First 1000 Days of a child’s life presents a crucial window of opportunity to ensure optimal growth and development. One of the most effective ways to safeguard children’s health during this season is ensuring they are vaccinated on time according to the recommended schedule, which significantly reduces the risk of severe symptoms associated with common paediatric illnesses.

Know the Danger Signs – The Road to Health booklet provides vital information on warning signs that requires urgent medical care. If a child exhibits any of the following, immediate medical attention should be sought:

  • Persistent coughing and rapid breathing
  • Inability to feed and presence of fever
  • Vomiting everything consumed
  • Diarrhoea( loose ,watery stools ) accompanied by sunken eyes and a swollen fontanelle (soft spot on an infant’s head,18 months and younger )
  • Shaking or convulsions
  • Signs of malnutrition such as swollen feet and hands
  • Inability to breastfeed
  • Lack of movement or response

From November 2024 to 3 March 2025, 1266 children in the Garden Route district under the age of 5 presented with diarrhoea. Of those, 559 children were hospitalised. If a child develops loose stools, immediate administration of an oral rehydration solution or Sugar Salt Solution is advised. This can be prepared by adding half a level teaspoon of salt and eight level teaspoons of sugar to one litre of cooled, boiled water. If breastfeeding, give more frequent and longer breastfeeds at a time.

Recognising Dehydration Symptoms

Parents and caregivers should be aware of the symptoms of dehydration, which include:

  • Reduced urination
  • Dry mouth
  • Few tears when crying
  • Sunken eyes
  • Weakness

Severe dehydration is a medical emergency and presents with symptoms such as:

  • Drowsiness
  • Pale or mottled skin
  • Cold hands or feet
  • Dry nappies
  • Rapid and shallow breathing

Althea Adams, clinical programme coordinator in the Garden Route: “Our healthcare facilities provide diagnosis and treatment for a range of childhood illnesses. Especially during surge season, our healthcare staff offer valuable guidance on nutrition and encourage families and caregivers to seek medical care as promptly of showing any of the danger signs”.

Parents and caregivers play a vital role in protecting children from the dangers of diarrheal disease and dehydration. Early intervention can save lives and ensuring that children receive the necessary medical attention in time is crucial.

Featured Image Caption: Staff Nurse Jacqueline Howley-January from Plett Town Clinic discussing the sugar-salt solution with patients.

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Nadia Ferreira
Communication Officer
Western Cape Government Health and Wellness
Tel: 044 813 1831
Email: Nadia.Ferreira@westerncape.gov.za
Website: www.westerncape.gov.za

3 March 2025 World celebrates International Wildlife Day

World celebrates International Wildlife Day

Twenty five years ago the United Nations declared 3 March as International Wildlife Day dedicated to the celebration of fauna and flora, as well as marine life, globally.

South Africa is the custodian of some of  the world’s most unique fauna and flora and has over decades invested heavily into conserving our very special habitats and bio- diversity from over- exploitation and extinction.

The good news is that there are today perhaps more land under conservation and official protection than fifty years ago, but despite these obvious goals there are many problems of which the most prominent is the near extinction of South Africa’s black and white rhino population due to relentless and violent poaching, and perhaps not as conspicuous there are several other plant and wild life species facing a similar fate country wide.

The conservation and protection of fauna and flora has to face many challenges in a South Africa that looks vastly different from what it was fifty years ago.

Some of the biggest challenges include a fast- growing population with an insatiable quest for land to be developed and supporting infrastructure, as well as the more recent impact of a changing climate and changing rainfall patterns which are proving to be substantial in its detructive impact.

Perhaps the single biggest threat to conservation in South Africa is invasive alien plants (I&AP’s) which found a very fertile home for themselves in millions of hectares covering the full extent of the South Africa in one degree or another depending on climate, rainfall and soil types.

Almost impossible to eradicate I&AP’s has rendered large sections of the South African landscape unusable for agriculture and conservation, and is spreading at an alarming rate putting ever more of the country’s sensitive eco- systems under threat of irreversible destruction.

Due to negative land management practices and invasive alien plants in primary catchments and rivers systems, South Africa has already lost more than two thirds of our precious wetland systems sustain an array of eco- systems found nowhere else on the planet.

The conservation of South Africa’s fauna and flora rests on the shoulders of all its citizens, whether it includes not dumping rubbish in undesignated spaces, by not contaminating or over extracting water resources or clearing your land from invasive alien plants, let us unite in conserving our beautiful land and celebrate our natural heritage.

Featured image caption: A Great Crested Grebe Podiceps cristatus, often seen at the lakes all around the Garden Route region.

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