Western Cape expands conservation estate by 47 000 hectares
In a landmark move for conservation in South Africa, the Western Cape government has significantly expanded its ecological footprint by adding approximately 47,000 hectares to its conservation estate. This strategic initiative includes the declaration of two new nature reserves—Waterkloof near Ladismith and Zebraskop in the Gamkaberg area of Klein Karoo—alongside the expansion of two existing reserves, Anysberg in the Karoo and Knersvlakte in Namaqualand.
The recent expansions will provide vital breeding grounds for Cape mountain zebras, while also ensuring better protection for a host of threatened succulent plants, mammals, and bird species endemic to the region. This ambitious undertaking aligns with South Africa’s commitment to conserving 30% of the land and marine areas by 2030, as outlined by the United Nations’ sustainable development goals.
“This is a significant step for protected area expansion in the Western Cape. By expanding and connecting protected areas, together we are conserving some of the world’s most threatened plants and animals and supporting the long-term survival of the Cape mountain zebra,” said Dr Ashley Naidoo, CEO of CapeNature. His remarks reflect a broader sentiment among conservationists regarding the importance of such initiatives in safeguarding biodiversity.
The combined expansion of Anysberg and Knersvlakte reserves alone adds 41,000 hectares, while Waterkloof and Zebraskop contribute an additional 6,000 hectares. All four declarations were spearheaded by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) South Africa, with funding provided through the Leslie Hill Succulent Karoo Trust and other sources.
The Anysberg Nature Reserve has benefited from an extension of 6,918 hectares, “aimed at enhancing its botanical diversity and protecting 14 vegetation types from both the Succulent Karoo and Fynbos biomes. This expansion not only enriches the ecological linkages between Anysberg and surrounding reserves but also serves as a crucial buffer for a plethora of wildlife species, including around 180 bird species, leopards, and the Critically Endangered riverine rabbit.
Meanwhile, the Knersvlakte Nature Reserve has expanded by an impressive 34,084 hectares. This is the most substantial addition since the reserve’s establishment in 2014 and addresses gaps in the protected landscape by integrating nine previously unprotected vegetation types. The Knersvlakte Bioregion, celebrated for its unique miniature succulents and endemic species, now enjoys strengthened ecological integrity and enhanced boundary consolidation to thwart illegal harvesting and preserve its natural beauty.
The efforts have not only bolstered wildlife corridors but also cater to climate change adaptation, fostering essential ecological processes that sustain biodiversity.
At Zebraskop Nature Reserve, a new 3,952-hectare area has been designated specifically to support the conservation genetics of the Cape mountain zebra, doubling the population’s genetic stock from the Gamkaberg region. Ongoing management will include the development of a wildlife corridor between Gamkaberg and Zebraskop, with ongoing monitoring of zebras translocated from Kammanassie Nature Reserve.
The Waterkloof Nature Reserve, covering 2,062 hectares, is particularly vital as part of the Klein Swartberg Mountain catchment area, which supplies water to the town of Ladismith and neighbouring communities. With the inclusion of seven vegetation types, some categorized as endangered, this reserve solidifies protections on the southern slopes of the Klein Swartberg and aims to create a crucial conservation corridor.
Jan Coetzee, WWF South Africa’s Landscape Manager for the Cape Floral Region, expressed enthusiasm over this achievement. “Securing these critical areas for future generations is a big win for conservation, the province, and its people. It’s only possible through strong partnerships with key donors, conservation organisations, legal experts, and provincial authorities, all working together for the greater good.”
This expansion is testament to the collaborative spirit required to tackle pressing environmental issues, ensuring a sustainable future not just for South Africa’s remarkable biodiversity but for communities that rely on these ecosystems for their livelihoods.