South Africa commemorates World Ranger Day

Event date: 2014-07-31 (All day)

Introduction and background

World Ranger Day commemorates rangers killed or injured in the line of duty, and celebrates the work rangers do to protect the world’s natural and cultural treasures. World Ranger Day is observed annually on the 31st of July, and is promoted by the 63 member associations of the International Ranger Federation (IRF), by the IRF partner the Thin Green Line Foundation, and by individuals who support the work of rangers and the IRF. The first World Ranger Day was observed in 2007 on the 15th anniversary of the founding of the IRF.

South Africa's celebration

The Deputy Minister of Environmental Affairs, Ms Barbara Thomson, officially unveiled the Ranger Monument at the Kruger Gate in the Kruger National Park on 31 July 2014, as part of the World Ranger Day celebration.The Monument acknowledges the contribution of past, present and future rangers to conservation in South Africa, and the world. The event marked the seventh anniversary of World Ranger Day held in memory of rangers who have lost their lives in the line of duty and to honour those who risk their lives daily to protect endangered species and other natural resources.

Media related products

Deputy Minister Ms Barbara Thomson unveils Ranger Monument at Kruger National Park

“As government we need to boost the morale of rangers by showing them their battle against poachers and other environmental crimes are not in vain. We want to tell you that we understand and fully appreciate that rhino poaching goes much deeper than mere physical security...

Deputy Minister Ms Barbara Thompson’s speech on World Ranger Day, Mpumalanga

South Africa faces the challenge of deteriorating environmental quality due to various factors including environmental crimes. If the current challenges are not effectively addressed they will exacerbate the rate of environmental degradation and have the potential to undo or undermine many of the positive advances made in meeting our country's development goals.