South African National Parks (SANParks) is hosting the 16th annual SA National Parks Week from 22 to 28 November 2021, in which free access will be given to all the national parks in the country.
Kruger National Park.
This initiative started in 2006, aimed at linking the South African national parks system to the global movement, as well as showcasing the best of South Africa’s national parks. SANParks Acting Chief Executive Officer, Luthando Dziba stated that ‘the week is meant to cultivate a sense of pride in South Africa’s natural, cultural and historical heritage and a deeper appreciation of biodiversity. It is important for South Africans to visit and know the importance of national parks.’
There is also hopes of increasing exposure and relevance of national parks amongst young people: ‘Through our Socio-Economic Transformation programmes and our Expanded Public Works Programme, we work closely with communities living adjacent to national parks in a quest to be more inclusive in our management of protected areas,’ Dziba added.
‘This inclusivity encompasses providing access to parks for cultural use as well as exposing young people to the different career options in conservation and tourism.’
To see all the parks open offering free entry and their relevant dates, click here.
Picture: Diego Morales/Unsplash
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