While they spend the majority of their time out of sight and camouflaged in their surroundings, they have been at the forefront of nature conservation in SA and on Thursday they were honoured for their service on World Ranger Day.
In an effort to show SA’s appreciation for their service, forestry, fisheries and environment minister Dion George hosted the World Ranger Day event in Cape Town.
The theme was “Powering Transformative Conservation” in reference to innovative approaches to enhance the effectiveness, scope and impact of conservation efforts.
And while the main event was held at the pristine Table Mountain National Park, dozens of smaller events took place at various locations across the country.
Speaking at the Garden Route event at the Knysna High School sports grounds, SANParks chair Pam Yako said the day meant a lot to her and many people around the globe.
“We want to say you are important to us, you have served SANParks well, you add so much value to the world by playing such an important role in conservation.
“To everyone here I want to say SANParks appreciates you,” she said.
The team celebrated the day with entertaining choral songs from Thembelitsha Primary School with rangers engaging in acting and communal singing.
According to guest speaker and SANParks honorary ranger Phil Strauss, it was estimated that there were about 1.5-million rangers in the world.
However, the majority of them were likely underequipped for their roles.
“Their work is difficult and dangerous and it’s crucial to prevent threats like poaching,” he said.
“Homicide was the leading cause of death, many killed working in crisis zones or confronting poaching and armed militia.
“Others lost their lives to animal attacks, vehicle accidents and occupational incidents or illness while on duty.
“Behind each number is a person, a protector and extended family.”
He said the goal was to transform traditional conservation methods into more dynamic, inclusive and scalable solutions to address urgent ecological challenges such as biodiversity loss, habitat degradation and climate change.
SANParks chief executive Hapiloe Sello also wrote a letter of appreciation to the rangers.
“On this day, the global conservation community pauses to acknowledge the courage, sacrifice and unwavering commitment of rangers around the globe.
“Your service on the frontline of SA’s protected areas often in remote or challenging conditions is of immense significance.
“You safeguard the natural heritage of our country, from anti-poaching operations and ecological monitoring to managing wilderness, assisting with research, patrolling vast landscapes and engaging local communities, your work is not just vital, it is the cornerstone of our mandate,” she said.
The rangers also performed a drill for the crowd, a moment of silence was observed for the fallen rangers and a certificate to retired rangers was issued.
The Herald
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