South Africa of the Presidency Endorses Cross-Border Conservation to Accelerate African Unity and Tourism
South Africa has called on African nations to embrace transfrontier conservation areas (TFCAs) as vital tools for regional unity, ecological preservation and tourism growth. These remarks were made at the Africa Keystone Partnership launch during the United Nations General Assembly in New York.
According to The Office of the Presidency, nature does not recognise political borders, and countries must therefore collaborate to protect ecosystems for present and future generations. It also highlighted that natural heritage is closely tied to cultural identity and essential to the well-being of communities across the continent.
The Africa Keystone Partnership seeks to safeguard 162 new ecological areas across the continent. These areas were identified using criteria such as connectivity, ecological integrity, resilience and uniqueness. While some are already protected through organisations like African Parks, many still require significant investment and resources. The Office of the Presidency confirmed South Africa’s readiness to engage further and explore ways to support the initiative.
Reflecting on South Africa’s own conservation journey, the Office pointed to the achievements of the country’s TFCA programme over the last 25 years. This programme has enabled wildlife movement, strengthened regional cooperation, and contributed to sustainable development. Beyond conservation, these parks create ecological corridors, boost local economies, generate employment, and empower communities to manage their resources.
South Africa stressed that TFCA success depends on African leadership and meaningful community participation. It noted that transfrontier parks symbolise unity, shared responsibility and mutual benefit among neighbouring states. Confidence was also expressed that the 162 identified ecological areas will meet similar conservation and development objectives.
The statement concluded by urging ongoing support for an approach that integrates conservation, regional integration and development—ensuring benefits not only for today’s citizens but also for generations yet to come.
According to The Office of the Presidency, nature does not recognise political borders, and countries must therefore collaborate to protect ecosystems for present and future generations. It also highlighted that natural heritage is closely tied to cultural identity and essential to the well-being of communities across the continent.
The Africa Keystone Partnership seeks to safeguard 162 new ecological areas across the continent. These areas were identified using criteria such as connectivity, ecological integrity, resilience and uniqueness. While some are already protected through organisations like African Parks, many still require significant investment and resources. The Office of the Presidency confirmed South Africa’s readiness to engage further and explore ways to support the initiative.
Reflecting on South Africa’s own conservation journey, the Office pointed to the achievements of the country’s TFCA programme over the last 25 years. This programme has enabled wildlife movement, strengthened regional cooperation, and contributed to sustainable development. Beyond conservation, these parks create ecological corridors, boost local economies, generate employment, and empower communities to manage their resources.
South Africa stressed that TFCA success depends on African leadership and meaningful community participation. It noted that transfrontier parks symbolise unity, shared responsibility and mutual benefit among neighbouring states. Confidence was also expressed that the 162 identified ecological areas will meet similar conservation and development objectives.
The statement concluded by urging ongoing support for an approach that integrates conservation, regional integration and development—ensuring benefits not only for today’s citizens but also for generations yet to come.
