Prof Kerley is the Director of the University’s Centre for African Conservation Ecology and a Zoology research professor.
His presentation further shared the ongoing increase in threatened taxonomic groups globally, despite the massive growth in protected areas, as well as the Greater Addo concept, as an example of expanding conservation while benefitting local communities.
Mega Living Landscapes
The Mega Living Landscapes approach focuses on considerably expanding conservation in South Africa, by including landscapes with biodiversity-friendly land use, also in partnership with and including local communities.
In addition, Mega Living Landscapes will contribute to South Africa’s commitment to conserve 30% of our land by 2030, as per the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, Prof Kerley says.
The Indaba was addressed by Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Minister Dr Dion George, Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane, SANParks Chairperson Pam Yako and SANParks CEO Hapiloe Sello.
The Greater Addo Concept
Prof Kerley and Dr Andre Boshoff from the University’s Zoology Department initiated the Greater Addo Concept in 1997 and subsequently, the Addo Elephant National Park has more than doubled in area, while attracting international donor funds and creating local employment opportunities.
Prof Kerley also showcased his research, including his students’ work, demonstrating the potential of the Mountain Zebra to Camdeboo link to conserve viable populations of endemic species, such as the Mountain Zebra.
In conclusion, Prof Kerley emphasised the need to relate expanding conservation to the global challenge of climate change. Mega Living Landscapes will rely on and catalyse considerable research and capacity building opportunities for the full range of disciplines at Mandela University, he said.