MPA DAY
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Save the date - 1 August, 2026, because marine protected areas couldn't be more important when it comes to preserving a healthy ocean. Research is increasingly showing MPAs' efficacy and, if we're to try to protect 30% of the sea by 2030, we need many more tracts of ocean safeguarded for the benefit of marine life and people.
In 2025, there were more than 100 events across 31 countries involving more than 100 partners across 7 continents. Endorsed by the UN Ocean Decade as a Decade Action, this day is a chance to draw attention to these vital spaces, to celebrate their wins, to share their significance with people inland and in coastal areas, and to connect with protected areas all over the world. Anyone, anywhere is welcome to host an event, big or small, or attend events in person or online. The Ocean Advocate is an official partner. For more about MPA Day, click here. And for a map of South Africa's MPAs, follow below. |
to navigate south africa's marine protected areas
Step 1: Download and install the Google Earth app on your selected device
Having difficulties? Click here for an article about how to install Google Earth on your device
Step 2: Source the KML file via the button below, download it and open it
Step 3: Save the KML file in an easy to find location
Step 4: Double click the saved document and it will open automatically in Google Earth
Step 5: For mobile devices, your map should load using the Google Earth App on your device
IF YOU'VE ALREADY GOT GOOGLE EARTH
Step 1. Click on top left menu (three lines)
Step 2. Click on "My places"
Step 3. Click "Import KML file"
Step 4. Click menu (top left, 3 lines) and select “Download file”
Step 5. Browse to downloaded KML file in your downloads folder and select the file
Step 6. Click top left arrow to take you back to Google Earth
Once you open Google Earth
Step 1. Zoom in on your area of interest
Step 2. Click on a coloured zone to see regulations by zone
Step 3. Click on a point to see MPA boundary coordinates
To use the KML file on your mobile phone
Step 1. Open Google Earth on your phone
Step 2. Click on top left menu (three lines)
Step 3. Click on "Projects"
Step 4. Click on KML file to open in Google Earth
Step 5. Click on right menu (three lines) of KML file and select “Pin to Earth” – this allows you to open the KML file whenever you need it on Google Earth
Step 6. Switch on your phone’s location icon to allow you to identify exactly where you are in relation to the MPAs
Step 2. Click on "My places"
Step 3. Click "Import KML file"
Step 4. Click menu (top left, 3 lines) and select “Download file”
Step 5. Browse to downloaded KML file in your downloads folder and select the file
Step 6. Click top left arrow to take you back to Google Earth
Once you open Google Earth
Step 1. Zoom in on your area of interest
Step 2. Click on a coloured zone to see regulations by zone
Step 3. Click on a point to see MPA boundary coordinates
To use the KML file on your mobile phone
Step 1. Open Google Earth on your phone
Step 2. Click on top left menu (three lines)
Step 3. Click on "Projects"
Step 4. Click on KML file to open in Google Earth
Step 5. Click on right menu (three lines) of KML file and select “Pin to Earth” – this allows you to open the KML file whenever you need it on Google Earth
Step 6. Switch on your phone’s location icon to allow you to identify exactly where you are in relation to the MPAs
A disclaimer: Please note that the information provided is based on South African Government Gazette No. 42479 and the South African Association for Marine Biological Research (SAAMBR) assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions in the information and in no event will SAAMBR be liable for any consequences arising from the use of the information.
Dr Bruce Mann, research associate at SAAMBR's Oceanographic Research Institute, explains the Isimangaliso MPA's zonation:
“Never, ever be afraid to make some noise, and get in good trouble, necessary trouble.”
Representative John Lewis, civil rights activist
Representative John Lewis, civil rights activist
