PROGRAMMES AND PROJECTS

A major and dynamic conservation initiative is unfolding across the Southern African region. During the past decade, ten Southern African countries have expended a lot of energy on the establishment of transfrontier conservation areas (TFCAs) or peace parks in an effort to reverse the fragmentation of ecosystems caused by artificially drawn international borders. 

The purpose of these parks is to support sustainable economic development, the conservation of biodiversity and regional peace and stability. Sustainable economic development, based on ecotourism which is the fastest growing industry in the world, will give people a reason to protect their natural assets. Once all the SADC TFCAs are established with the necessary infrastructure in place, they could accommodate 8 million visitors per annum, with the resultant growth in job creation.

The development of TFCAs or peace parks is an exemplary process of partnerships between governments and the private sector. While the main players are the relevant governments and implementing agencies, donors and NGOs have also significantly contributed towards the creation of TFCAs. Peace Parks Foundation was established by Dr Anton Rupert, HRH Prince Bernhard of the Netherlands and Dr Nelson Mandela on 1 February 1997 to facilitate the establishment of peace parks and is currently working with ten governments in SADC towards this goal.

Apart from the work in the various peace parks, the Foundation is also involved in  programmes that encompass more
than one peace park.

To provide for the sustainability of the peace parks, the Foundation also supports training at the Southern African Wildlife College and at the SA College for Tourism.

If you would like to find out more about Peace Parks Foundation's work and how to support it, kindly contact Prof Willem van Riet.