In celebration of World Environment Day on June 5, Wilderness Foundation Africa (WFA) presented a cheque from the Oak Foundation to Addo Elephant National Park (AENP), for the acquisition of a new patrol boat dedicated to its Marine Protected Area (MPA).
World Environment Day promotes awareness and action for environmental protection. The handover ceremony saw South African National Parks (SANParks) Board Chairperson, Pam Yako, along with the rest of the SANParks Board and Executive Management, receive the cheque from WFA CEO, Dr Andrew Muir.
The patrol boat is set to significantly aid rangers in their mission to conserve and safeguard the expansive 114 000-hectare marine section of AENP. This area encompasses a variety of ecosystems, such as sandy beaches, rocky shores, reefs, an estuary, and islands. It also includes critical feeding grounds for 3 000 pairs of endangered African penguins breeding in Algoa Bay, and 90 000 pairs of endangered Cape gannets breeding at Bird Island.
“A dedicated team of Marine Rangers is responsible for the safety, security, and conservation of the MPA. These rangers maintain a vigilant presence, alternating between Bird Island and patrol of the surrounding waters,” said Regional Communications Manager, Fayroush Ludick.
“Their efforts have led to numerous arrests, the confiscation of vessels and fishing equipment, and the issuance of fines for marine-related crimes.”
Wilderness Foundation Africa expressed its gratitude for the collaborative relationship with SANParks, particularly as this project highlights the involvement of young people from previously disadvantaged communities who are trained to become dedicated rangers, playing a crucial role in protecting vital ecosystems for future generations.
SANParks and WFA have enjoyed a long-standing partnership, particularly in the interest of conservation at AENP. Both organisations share a commitment to enhancing biodiversity conservation efforts and have jointly undertaken conservation, responsible tourism, and socio-economic development projects in and around the park.
In 2022, the Oak Foundation donated two new engines, which were fitted to one of the park’s existing patrol boats, the Mkhuseli. With their latest donation of R1.3 million, a brand-new vessel will be purchased. Once completed, this new boat will be deployed to bolster the conservation efforts within Addo’s MPA.
