PRESERVING THE CAPE FLORAL KINGDOM

The Cape Floral Kingdom, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in South Africa’s Overberg region, is one of the world’s most biodiverse ecosystems. Hosting over 9,000 vascular plant species, 69% of which are endemic, this region's fynbos vegetation is a global treasure. Among its habitats are several types of lowland renosterveld, all classified as Endangered or Critically Endangered, which have lost 95% of their original range to agricultural expansion. Renosterveld is distinguished by its fertile soils, exceptional biodiversity, and highly localized plant species, some found only on a single hillside. Despite its limited range, it remains vital for numerous species, including the Endangered black harrier and the Vulnerable Cape leopard.

Led by the Overberg Renosterveld Trust (ORT) in partnership with organizations like WildLandscapes International, World Land Trust, IUCN Land Acquisition Fund Netherlands, and WWF-South Africa, significant progress has been made to conserve this irreplaceable ecosystem. In 2023, the purchase of the 1,425-acre Plaatjieskraal farm doubled the size of the Haarwegskloof Renosterveld Reserve, securing crucial land and paving the way for future acquisitions. In early 2025, an additional 660 acres, housing at least 20 black harrier pairs, will be transferred through outright purchase to the ORT. This property lies just north of Plaatjieskraal and is connected to it through an easement in favor of the ORT. These joint initiatives raised over $860,000 through contributions from the Leslie Hill Succulent Karoo Trust (WWF-SA), World Land Trust, IUCN Netherlands, WildLandscapes, and other partners. The expanded reserve protects one of the most endangered vegetation types on the planet and provides opportunities for wildlife corridors linking to nearby protected areas like De Hoop Nature Reserve.

Looking ahead, priorities include acquiring additional renosterveld sites, such as a portion of a nearby farm, and other parcels south of Haarwegskloof which would create a wildlife corridor directly connecting the reserve to the coastal De Hoop Nature Reserve. These initiatives aim to secure more land, restore degraded areas, and create wildlife corridors that enhance ecosystem connectivity. Collectively, these actions will safeguard the ecological and cultural heritage of the Cape Floral Kingdom for future generations.