SANParks hosts annual Cancer Awareness Walk to support local communities

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

The event drew over 200 participants, including local community members, SANParks staff, and partners, and was a collaborative effort with the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) and the Wilderness community.

The walk served to honour cancer survivors, offer support to those currently battling the disease, and emphasises the critical importance of prevention, early detection, and timely treatment. 

Held in September, Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, the timing held particular significance.

While October is traditionally recognized as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, SANParks opted to host the walk earlier to align with ongoing September awareness efforts and to ensure participants had prompt access to health screenings and services.

SANParks said this decision highlighted a crucial message: cancer impacts lives throughout the year, across all age groups, making consistent awareness and preventative care continuously vital.

JP Louw, SANParks Head of Communications and spokesperson explained the importance of the event.

“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,” he said.

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,” Louw added. 

“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.”

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