We are seeking public feedback on the draft National Leopard Conservation Strategy and Action Plan

Pretoria – Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, David Maynier, has released the draft National Leopard Conservation Strategy and Action Plan, 2026, inviting public feedback.

The draft outlines a collective national vision that “leopards thrive in vibrant landscapes, enhance cultural traditions, and support local livelihoods through inclusive, community-focused conservation efforts.”

According to the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, the draft aims to “provide guidance” that is consistent with the ambitious vision set forth in the White Paper on Conservation and Sustainable Use of South Africa’s Biodiversity, 2023.

The department emphasized that the draft also reflects the values and aspirations of South Africans regarding leopards and the benefits they can bring to both society and the environment.

The draft Strategy and Action Plan envisions recognizing leopards as an essential part of the nation’s natural heritage, appreciated for their ecological, cultural, and symbolic importance across various cultures.

“By safeguarding leopard habitats and biodiversity, the Strategy and Action Plan could drive sustainable development and transformation within South Africa,” the department stated in a release made available to The Bulrushes on Friday, September 4, 2026.

Additionally, the draft is backed by objectives and strategic initiatives based on the species’ (a) ecological contributions, (b) social and cultural significance, and (c) their impact on livelihoods.

The draft was issued under sections 99 and 100 of the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, 2004 (Act No. 10 of 2004).

It was published in Government Gazette No. 55299, Notice No. 7877, dated September 4, 2026.

The public is encouraged to provide written comments on the draft Strategy and Action Plan within 30 days from the publication date of the Notice in the Government Gazette or newspaper, whichever is later, at the following addresses:

2026 (draft Strategy and Action Plan)

By post to:
The Director-General: Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment
Attention: Ms. Asnath Hlungwani / Ms. Mashudu Mahada
Private Bag X447
PRETORIA
0001

By hand at:
Environment House, 473 Steve Biko Road, Arcadia, Pretoria, 0083

By email:
ConservationManagement@dffe.gov.za

Electronic copies of the Government Notice are available for download from the following link:
https://www.dffe.gov.za/legislation/gazetted_notices

For any inquiries regarding this Government Notice, please contact Ms. Asnath Hlungwani / Ms. Mashudu Mahada at 076 819 3783 / 060 602 6560, or via email: MMahada@dffe.gov.za / Ahlungwani@dffe.gov.za.

Comments submitted after the deadline may not be considered.

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