The news of the last three weeks had been dominated by reports and analysis of events of strife and conflict on a scale that we have not seen for a very long time. In the wake of the terrible shock with which the entire world learnt of the acts of terrorism in the United States, we faced and continue to face the prospects of conflict on a worldwide scale.

We have, like the rest of peace-loving people across the world, expressed our utter abhorrence at those inhumane acts of terror against ordinary citizens just going about their daily lives. We said that this is a time for the world to take hands and stand together in ridding ourselves of the terrible scourge of terrorism. Now is a time for redoubling the efforts at finding lasting peace all over the globe.

Today at this memorable occasion we can concretely celebrate one effort at building sustainable peace through co-operation amongst countries and within a region.

May I start by congratulating the governments of Mozambique, South Africa and Zimbabwe for showing the courage and commitment to open up their borders for the benefit of the people and wildlife of this region. This wonderful initiative does not only deal with the natural environment, but also improves relationships between that can be embraced by all.

In a world beset by conflict and division, peace is one of the cornerstones of the future. Peace parks are a building block in this process, not only in our region, but potentially in the entire world.

I want to emphasise the philosophy of my dear friend Anton Rupert, chairperson of the Peace Parks Foundation that played such a crucial role in this project. He always says: “Co-existence between man and man and man and nature is the key to the success of our future.” Today we are turning this philosophy into practice by opening up opportunities for human beings and nature, which will bring to both. We are in a very real sense creating a new future.

And, by the way, this is also an opportune moment to congratulate Anton Rupert on his birthday. I happen to remember that he turns a year younger today. There can certainly be no more fitting celebration for him than being witness to this great event.

Approximately 100 years ago, Kruger National Park had no elephants as the population had been hunted to extinction. History shows that 30 brave elephants walked across the Shigwedzi River from Mozambique to Kruger. They are the great grandfathers and mothers of these you see here today, which South Africa is now returning to Mozambique, thus repaying an old debt.

The bold steps taken today are as heroic as those of the founding elephants whose population has now grown to a staggering 10 000 in Kruger. I believe that the economic benefit this peace park will have on the area, will have the same multiplying effect as the 30 elephants. Human beings and nature are taking hands across international borders for the benefit of all.

Africa has a success story and the peace parks concept is an important part of that story. The world can learn from us. They can see that we as Africans are using our natural heritage for the benefit of all life. I salute the brave politicians for paving the ways for safer and better future for all.

May peace indeed prosper in this region, on our continent and in the world. And I know that this venture will contribute significantly to building a better life for the people of our region.

I thank you.

Issued by the Ministry of Environmental Affairs and Tourism