Aucamp: Climate response, conservation a priority for govt
As Willie Aucamp reached 100 days as Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, he said his term in office will be guided by science, sustainability and accountability.
In an interview with Jacaranda FM News, Aucamp outlined seven priority areas shaping his leadership, beginning with mitigating climate change.
He emphasised the importance of limiting environmental damage while ensuring communities are equipped to address climate-related challenges.
“We must see how we can walk back climate change,” he explained.
“We’ve seen with the frequent floods and wildfires what the effects are. We need to mitigate those, but we also need to install adaptation measures so that when we experience these effects, we are better prepared.”
He also referred to the flooding that affected Mpumalanga and Limpopo earlier this year, noting the response from national parks authorities.
“Not one single person lost his life, and not one single person even got injured. That is testimony to the dedication of the team.”
In addition to recovery efforts, Aucamp said he would like to see South Africa’s national parks strengthened as conservation and tourism destinations.
“We’ve got to transform our iconic natural spaces… into first-class destinations that set worldwide standards for conservation, education and sustainable tourism.”
He mentioned parks such as Kruger National Park, Addo Elephant National Park and iSimangaliso Wetland Park as examples of areas that can contribute to conservation and economic activity.
Aucamp said he is currently dealing with matters affecting the small-scale fishing sector following a decision taken before he became minister.
"There was a decision made before I became the minister that took away a certain number of vessels for the small-scale fishing industry. I am currently handling all those appeals. The appeal period ends on the 2nd of March, and I will have a decision on all those appeals ready by the 4th or the 5th of March at the latest," he said.
One hundred days into his term, Aucamp said his focus remains on restoring damaged areas, safeguarding vulnerable resources and supporting affected communities.
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