The state of nature reserves in Mpumalanga - and in wider South Africa

Some of Mpumalanga’s most beautiful landscapes are preserved in nature reserves. Contrary to iconic national parks like Kruger National Park which are centrally managed by SANParks, many nature reserves are managed on a provincial level. We enjoy visiting these reserves due to the outstanding landscapes, biodiversity and feeling of seclusion.

Unfortunately, we’ve witnessed many reserves in a state of disrepair, with this trend seemingly accelerating. Daily Maverick summarises the state of Provincial Parks, and what is means for future generations, in this article.

EMS foundation has an in depth report on the state of some 60 reserves they visited. It paints a bleak picture, with iconic reserves like Modjadji Nature Reserve in Limpopo with it’s unique cycad forest, closed and in a state of disrepair. We have fond memories of walking among the gigantic Modjaji Cycads and worry about the future there.

In Mpumalanga EMS foundation visited Andover Nature Reserve, Barberton Nature Reserve, Mthethomusha Nature Reserve and Songimvelo Nature Reserve. You can read their full report here.

The EWT (Endangered Wildlife Trust) had similarly assessed Provincial Nature Reserves in 2023, their report “The State of Provincial Reserves in South Africa, Challenges and Recommendations” can be found here.

We’ve travelled to, and continue to enjoy, many provincial Nature Reserves, and we hope provincial government can turn around these nature reserves for the benefit of our local communities, overseas and domestic tourist and biodiversity.