Celebration of MPA DAY 4th Anniversary

Youth4MPAs (Marine Protected Areas), in collaboration with Justice 4 Jaws and Ocean Stewards, hosted celebrations for the fourth anniversary of #MPADay in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, nestled in Northern Zululand in KZN, South Africa. The event aimed to highlight the crucial role of MPAs in conserving our ocean’s biodiversity. These conserved zones are vital for protecting marine life and allowing ecosystems to thrive and recover.

Assisted by Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife Scientific Services, EDTEA KZN, Wildlife ACT – Focused Conservation and Nansi Impumelelo educational presentations, exciting games, and engaging activities were provided for the children of eNkovukeni.

The event took place at the Community Resource Hub and saw dozens of school children showing an interest and awareness in the ocean on their doorstep.

Zanele Luthuli, representing the Ocean Stewards, encouraged the children to start practicing citizen science from a young age, emphasizing that making sustainable choices has no age limit. To which Mam’ Mabongi Masinga of Ezemvelo further encouraged both the young and old to be mindful of their habits and their impact on marine animals and the overall health of the ocean, which benefits everyone on land.

The festivities continue as the youth groups are continuing with a #MPA focused tour in Northern Zululand this weekend, spreading educational and entertaining messages about the effectiveness and conservation benefits of MPAs.

Thank you to the Blue Action Fund, Ocean Kind and Rainforest Trust for all the continued support of the youth groups.