CAPE TOWN, July 31 (Xinhua) -- South Africa joined the global community in observing World Ranger Day on Friday, calling for greater support for rangers as the country recognizes their expanding role in protecting biodiversity, managing ecosystems, and strengthening conservation partnerships.
Speaking at the commemoration held at Augrabies Falls National Park in the Northern Cape Province, Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment David Maynier paid tribute to rangers serving across the country's protected areas and honored those who had been killed or injured in the line of duty.
This year marks the 20th anniversary of World Ranger Day, observed annually on July 31 under the theme "Rangers: Guardians of a Changing Planet."
Maynier said the occasion was not only a time to remember sacrifices made by rangers, but also an opportunity to reflect on the changing nature of conservation and the future of the profession.
"Rangers today work in a world shaped by climate variability, biodiversity pressures, environmental crime, changing land-use patterns and complex social and economic realities," Maynier said, adding that the challenges they face were "often interconnected and constantly evolving."
He said modern rangers were no longer limited to traditional protection duties, but also contributed to ecosystem management, biodiversity monitoring, visitor safety, environmental education, and engagement with communities surrounding protected areas.
Maynier said that "a modern ranger is a conservation professional" and described rangers as "a bridge between people and nature."
Maynier said supporting rangers must go beyond ceremonial recognition and include investment in training, professional development, safety, and well-being.
He also stressed that conservation depended on building stronger partnerships with communities and encouraging young South Africans to pursue careers in the sector. ■