GARDEN ROUTE NATIONAL PARK LEADS 2025 CANCER AWARENESS WALK IN WILDERNESS

SANParks hosted cancer awareness walk photo supplied

By JP Louw
SANParks Head of Communications and Spokesperson

South African National Parks (SANParks) hosted the annual Cancer Awareness Walk in the Wilderness Section of the Garden Route National Park on 30 September 2025.

The event brought together more than 200 participants from the local community, SANParks staff, and partners.

The walk was organised in collaboration with the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) and the Wilderness community.

The walk honoured survivors, supported those currently affected by cancer, and raised awareness about the importance of prevention, early detection, and treatment.

September is recognized as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, which made the timing of the event especially meaningful.

While Breast Cancer Awareness Month is traditionally observed in October, SANParks chose to host the walk earlier to coincide with ongoing awareness efforts in September and to give participants timely access to health screenings and services.

This underlined a key message that cancer affects lives throughout the year, across all ages, and consistent awareness and preventative care remain vital.

For SANParks staff living and working within remote park environments, access to health facilities is often limited. Initiatives such as the Cancer Awareness Walk bring vital services closer to employees and neighbouring communities, ensuring that care is not only accessible but also embedded into SANParks’ broader mandate of social responsibility.

The route began at Ebb and Flow Rest Camp, continued along Waterside Road and George Road, turned into Leila’s Lane and Sanctuary Road, and returned to the rest camp.

The 6 km path symbolized resilience, collective strength, and the importance of walking together in the fight against cancer.

This initiative aligns with Vision 2040, which emphasises the integration of people, nature, and heritage in a way that advances sustainable livelihoods and resilient communities.

By extending its impact beyond conservation, SANParks demonstrates that the well-being of people living in and around national parks is central to its long-term vision.

Programmes that combine health, awareness, and community engagement reflect a holistic approach to building a future where protected areas not only conserve biodiversity but also actively contribute to healthier, thriving societies.