Marakele Matters

Thabazimbi – Marakele National Park is revising its 10-year management plan (2026–2035), and SANParks is making sure the surrounding communities have a say in its future.

As part of this legally required process under the National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act, SANParks hosted two public engagement sessions — first in Vaalwater on 18 March 2025, then in Thabazimbi on 19 March.

The Vaalwater session saw an enthusiastic turnout from local youth, with lively discussions on job opportunities, the role of public-private partnerships, and expanding the Park’s buffer zone to Bela-Bela.

In Thabazimbi, a smaller but focused group of stakeholders took part, raising important issues around skills development, community empowerment, and road maintenance to improve park accessibility.

The draft plan can still be viewed at www.sanparks.org/conservation/park_man/draft_plans_public_comment.php or at:

• Dutch Reformed Church, 387 Strydom St, Vaalwater
• Vaalwater Police Station, 227 Sandrift Rd
• Thabazimbi Community Library (next to SASSA), Regorogile
• Thabazimbi Public Library, 14 4th Avenue
• Lovelife Youth Center, 118 Shai Drive, Regorogile

Deadline for comments: 11 April 2025
This is your park. Help shape its future.

Photo: Community voices heard during public sessions on 10-year management plan.