Mkambati Nature Reserve, in the Eastern Cape is now a Ramsar Site, a wetland of global importance.
Narend Singh, the Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DAFF), is expected to launch the site on Wednesday this week.
It is the first in the Eastern Cape, to have a combination of wetlands, rivers, estuaries, waterfalls and rare species, to be protected under an international framework that commits South Africa to their long-term wise use and conservation.
DAFF said in a notice, this milestone is a result of a partnership of multiple organisations including DFFE, DEDEAT, O.R. Tambo District Municipality, Ingquza Hill Local Municipality, the Water Research Commission, the Eastern Cape Parks & Tourism Agency and the Mkambati Land Trust.
“Wetlands are not just beautiful. They clean water, reduce flooding, support biodiversity and sustain communities. Protecting them today protects people and nature for generations to come” said the Department.
Picture: Natucate