Key Takeaways
- President Cyril Ramaphosa emphasized South Africa’s leadership in cross-border conservation at the Africa Keystone Protected Area Partnership in New York, emphasizing the importance of ecological cooperation.
- He called for more investment in Africa’s 162 most vital ecological areas, identified for their biodiversity and resilience.
- Ramaphosa urged that African-led conservation models benefit both people and the planet, reinforcing that “Nature knows no borders.”
At a high-level event in New York, President Cyril Ramaphosa delivered a powerful message: conservation in Africa must be inclusive, African-led, and globally supported. Speaking at the launch of the Africa Keystone Protected Area Partnership, the President spotlighted South Africa’s successes and called on global partners to help protect the continent’s ecological treasures.
Their Story
President Ramaphosa addressed leaders, partners, and conservation advocates during the Africa Keystone event hosted by the International Conservation Caucus Foundation, the Rob Walton Foundation, and the African Wildlife Foundation. He emphasized the urgency of protecting Africa’s natural heritage through global support and African leadership.
Quoting the idea that “Nature knows no borders,” Ramaphosa reminded the audience of Africa’s unique biodiversity and the shared responsibility of safeguarding it. The 162 protected areas identified span multiple African countries and are home to endangered species, ecological corridors, and communities that rely on the land.
The Event/Occasion
Held in New York on 22 September 2025, the event gathered conservationists, policymakers, and philanthropists. President Ramaphosa expressed appreciation for bipartisan support from United States lawmakers and highlighted how Africa’s Transfrontier Conservation Areas (TFCAs) have created jobs, promoted tourism, and preserved biodiversity.
“These parks succeed when they are led by Africans and benefit the people who live near them,” he said, calling on champions of the Keystone initiative to engage in follow-up discussions with South Africa’s environmental agencies.
Community Reactions
Environmental organizations and community stakeholders across Southern Africa welcomed the speech. Conservationists applauded the President’s call for African ownership in conservation models and recognized the significance of international cooperation.
Local communities living near transfrontier parks have long benefited from eco-tourism jobs and improved livelihoods. The reaffirmation of South Africa’s commitment to community-based conservation is expected to boost regional morale and attract further investment.
