What’s MPA Day and why should you care?

If you haven’t heard of MPA Day, no worries; we’re here to enlighten you!

MPA stands for Marine Protected Areas – very important zones within the ocean – with several found along our KZN coastline.

On Saturday, 1 August, we celebrate Marine Protected Area (MPA) Day with a packed programme of activities across KwaZulu-Natal's coastline.

Because the ocean is such an important part of Durban life…but it’s also what gives us life.

That’s why it’s time to give something back!

READ: Winter means whale watching on the KZN South Coast

But, first things first... what exactly is an MPA?

Think of Marine Protected Areas as nature reserves of the ocean.

They're specially protected sections of coastline and sea where marine life, habitats and ecosystems can recover and thrive.

Some areas allow sustainable activities like diving or controlled fishing, while others are complete ‘no-take’ zones where marine life is fully protected.

Healthy MPAs are good for marine life, but they also support tourism, strengthen fisheries, improve climate resilience, and keep our oceans healthy for future generations.

MPA fast facts

To better put you in the loop, here are some fast facts:

• South Africa has 42 Marine Protected Areas protecting around 5.4% of our Exclusive Economic Zone.
• Around 3% of South Africa's ocean is fully protected as no-take zones.
• MPAs help fish populations recover, allowing neighbouring fishing grounds to benefit from healthier stocks.
• They protect endangered species including African Penguins, coelacanths and many endemic marine species.
• Globally, countries are working towards protecting 30% of the world's oceans by 2030 through the international ‘30x30’ conservation target.

Why MPA Day?

Because many of us don’t even know about MPAs, that’s why!

MPA Day was actually founded right here in South Africa by Dr Judy Mann-Lang (Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation) and her team back in 2022.

She explains: “MPA Day aims to include everyone, from every walk of life, no matter where they live, because the health of our ocean affects us all. Even if you can't participate, we encourage you to do whatever you can because every small act works toward our great goal of protecting the ocean.”

MPA Day has now become an internationally recognised conservation event as part of the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development, celebrated across the globe.

READ: From deckhand to first mate: Meet the KZN sailor making waves on the world's superyachts

Here's what's happening in KwaZulu-Natal

1.     Sodwana Bay MPA (northern KZN)

Organisers: Adventure Mania | Maputaland Hope Spot 

One of the country's biggest MPA Day celebrations takes place inside the spectacular iSimangaliso Marine Protected Area. You can enjoy:

• 5km, 10km and 21km Fun Run & Walk through the dunes and along the beach
• Rocky Shore Explorer Challenge
• Beach clean-up
• Marine conservation talks
• Children's Ocean Celebration with games and creative activities
• Ocean-themed educational experiences for local schools

2.     Aliwal Shoal MPA (KZN South Coast)

Organisers: Wild Alliance Africa | Aliwal Shoal Hope Spot

One of the world's most famous dive sites is celebrating with a full programme of ocean adventures. Activities include:

• A 33km beach walk along the length of the MPA
• Guided scuba diving excursions
• Guided snorkelling experiences
• Citizen science rocky shore explorations
• Screening of the Mission Blue documentary featuring a special message from legendary oceanographer Dr Sylvia Earle

3.     uThukela MPA (northern KZN)

Organiser: Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife

Local school pupils will spend the day exploring rocky shores while learning about the fascinating creatures living between the tides and why these habitats need protection.

Can't get to the coast?

You can still get involved! MPA Day encourages everyone to take small actions that make a big difference, including:

• Picking up litter at your local beach, river or park
• Reducing single-use plastics
• Learning more about marine conservation
• Sharing MPA Day information online
• Supporting local conservation organisations

What you need to know

• Event: Marine Protected Area (MPA) Day 2026
• Date: Saturday, 1 August 2026
• Where: Marine Protected Areas across KwaZulu-Natal and South Africa
• More information: Click here to view the full programme of activities and participating locations.

MPA Day is the perfect excuse to celebrate some of KZN’s natural treasures!

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