Sharing South Africa’s Natural Heritage: Exploring Land, Loss, and Legacy
Exploring Heritage and Nature in South Africa
South Africa boasts stunning landscapes and protected areas that serve as a living testament to nature’s beauty. But is this wealth truly a common heritage for all? The answer is complex, encompassing both inclusion and exclusion. While nature belongs to every South African, shaped by generations past, the ways in which we manage and protect these spaces have led to significant intergenerational trauma.
Historical Context of Protected Areas
Landmarks such as the Kruger National Park were established amidst the forced removal of Black communities, severing deep-rooted connections to the land. This historical context reveals that conservation efforts have often disregarded indigenous knowledge and cosmologies, leading to feelings of alienation. Ongoing land claims within national parks and private game reserves have yet to fully resolve this legacy of trauma.
The Debate on Heritage
Each year, discussions about heritage in a multicultural society become increasingly poignant. The theme for Heritage Month 2025—“Reimagine Our Heritage Institutions for a New Era”—provoked urgent conversations that extend beyond just the month of September. While meat enthusiasts champion braai as a point of cultural unity, this year saw an uptick in environmental focus in speeches and activities.
Deputy President Paul Mashatile emphasized the alignment of Heritage Day with South Africa’s G20 presidency priorities, notably solidarity, equality, and sustainability. The notion of sustainability encompasses various interpretations but ultimately hinges on the health of our natural environment.
Celebrating Our Heritage
Various organizations and government bodies across the nation initiated events to honor our heritage, each contributing uniquely. Of particular note was the “One Million Trees on Heritage Day” campaign, part of the broader Ten Million Trees Programme initiated by President Cyril Ramaphosa. This effort aims to plant 10 million trees over five years, aligned with legislation like the National Forest Act of 1998, which acknowledges the vital role of trees and woodlands in biodiversity and heritage.
Organizations such as the World Wide Fund for Nature South Africa (WWF SA) and South African National Parks (SANParks) are at the forefront, promoting campaigns that highlight the importance of natural landscapes as integral to our heritage alongside indigenous knowledge.
Engaging with Natural Heritage
During the week of September 22-28, SANParks offered free entry to most of its 21 national parks, encouraging citizens to explore their natural heritage. This initiative led to a surge in visitors to the Kruger National Park on Heritage Day, showcasing the growing interest in reconnecting with nature. However, this raises questions about the disconnection between symbolic gestures and the ongoing challenges of making environmental conservation a shared heritage.
The Path Forward
Achieving a truly common natural heritage requires that every citizen perceives the landscapes, wildlife, and plants as collective resources. Realizing this vision involves three essential conditions: equitable ownership of natural resources, joint management practices, and the establishment of sustainable and fair benefit-sharing frameworks supported by legal structures.
It is crucial that our natural heritage transcends mere events or short-term environmental initiatives. It should embody our collective identity, urging us to coexist with and safeguard our natural world. This heritage connects us to our history, shapes our current realities, and offers a hopeful future.
What steps do you think should be taken to ensure a truly shared natural heritage for all South Africans?
