MPA DAY 2022
From local roots to global recognition
What began as a local effort quickly gained momentum. In just its second year, MPA Day drew the attention and participation of communities, NGOs, scientists, youth groups, and influencers globally. The message was clear: protecting MPAs is no longer optional — it's essential.
“The urgency needed in protecting these ocean havens is becoming apparent internationally.”
— Dr Judy Mann, Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation
2022 Theme: #LetsTalkMPAs
This year’s theme invited dialogue, education, and inspiration.
Community events across South Africa brought the ocean closer to home:
- Live MPA Day webinar: With marine experts answering the critical question: Do marine protected areas work?
- Aliwal Shoal MPA, Scottburgh: Hosted by SAAMBR & Olivia Jones Communications
- Table Mountain MPA, Dalebrook: Led by Two Oceans Aquarium, I Am Water, Ocean Hub Africa, and Save Our Seas Shark Education Centre
- Betty’s Bay MPA: Highlighted through a stakeholder video by Cape Nature
- iSimangaliso Wetland Park MPA: Celebrated with WILDTRUST, Youth4MPAs, uFudu Turtle Tours, and Adventure Mania
- Robben Island: Beach clean-up event hosted by Robben Island eritage Trust
- uThukela MPA: Youth-led exploration by Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife
- Photo competition: Above and below water shots of beautiful species and habitats.
- BioBlitz: With citizen scientists invited to contribute by photographing marine life while diving, snorkeling, or exploring rocky shores using iNaturalist.
- Twitter chat: Featuring influencers and ocean advocates
BIOBLITZ
A coastal Bioblitz adventure!
From 29–31 July 2022, nature lovers of all kinds — families, students, snorkelers, divers, beachgoers, rock pool explorers, and scientists — came together for an epic mission: to discover and document as many species as possible along South Africa’s Marine Protected Areas (MPAs)!
Using the iNaturalist app or website, participants snapped photos, logged their sightings, and marked their locations — helping build a clearer picture of the biodiversity along South Africa's coast.
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