The South African Government through Operation Phakisa and in partnership with a broad spectrum of stakeholders in the marine sector has proposed declaring 21 new mid-ocean marine protected areas (MPA).
These new MPAs have set management objectives and have been designed to protect important marine habitats and ecosystems that will contribute to the longevity of South Africa’s oceans. Together, the new MPAs will increase the extent of South Africa’s MPA coverage from 0.5% to 5% of our oceans.
MPAs offer many benefits for nature and society. They protect critical habitats for the reproduction and growth of species and allow sensitive ocean areas to recover from the stresses of exploitation and extraction while contributing to healthy marine sites for sustainable and responsible eco-tourism.
To find out more, visit the websites for Operation Phakisa and the Department of Environmental Affairs.