SANParks

South African National Parks (SANParks) is a public entity responsible for managing and maintaining a network of national parks and protected areas in South Africa. Established in 1926 as the South African National Parks Board, the organization's primary objective is to conserve and protect the country's rich and diverse natural and cultural heritage.

SANParks is governed by the National Environmental Management: Protected Areas, and Conservation Act of 2004, which requires the organization to balance conservation with the need for inclusive and representative management of protected areas. The organization is headed by a Board of Governors, which exercises oversight and direction over the management of parks and protected areas.

SANParks manages a diverse range of national parks, including Kruger National Park, the largest game reserve in Africa, and Table Mountain National Park, one of the country's most spectacular parks. The organization offers a range of recreational and conservation activities, including wildlife viewing, hiking, and conservation research.

SANParks is also responsible for managing several important conservation programs, including the Management Effectiveness Planning framework, which aims to improve the management and effectiveness of protected areas. The organization also maintains public-private partnerships with various stakeholders to promote conservation and sustainable development.

With its mission to "make a lasting impression" on the natural and cultural heritage of South Africa, SANParks plays a vital role in conserving the country's unique biodiversity and rich cultural heritage. The organization's commitment to pioneering, protecting, and presenting the country's natural and cultural assets ensures the preservation of these areas for future generations.

SANParks works closely with various stakeholders, including governments, NGOs, and local communities, to promote conservation and sustainable development. Through its multi-faceted approach, SANParks seeks to promote the protection and value of its unique resources, strengthen public support for conservation, and work towards a "perfect balance between human needs and the needs of nature."