The Eastern Cape Parks and Tourism Agency (ECPTA), in partnership with the Department of Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism (DEDEAT), and the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), proudly announced Mkambathi Nature Reserve’s designation as South Africa’s 31st Ramsar site—the first-ever in the Eastern Cape.
Covering more than 7,720 hectares, Mkambathi Nature Reserve is renowned for its exceptional biodiversity, featuring the Pondoland-Ugu Sandstone Coastal Sourveld grasslands—the only officially conserved example of this vegetation type—as well as the ecologically significant Pondoland Scarp Forests.
ECPTA’s CEO, Vuyani Dayimani, described the Ramsar designation as a critical milestone for conservation in the province, emphasising that the status will enhance biodiversity preservation and encourage sustainable eco-tourism. The recognition also carries significant economic potential for local communities, promoting job creation, community engagement, and environmentally responsible tourism.
Wetlands at Mkambathi play a crucial ecological role, providing habitats for rare and endangered bird species, including the Spotted Ground Thrush, Southern Ground-Hornbill, and Knysna Woodpecker, further highlighting its international conservation significance.
