The Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ) was awarded the ‘Best State-Owned Entity at Vision 2030 Award for the year 2019 on 21 November. The award is in line with the National Development Plan (NDP) 2030.
The annual award recognises organisations and individuals who have made strides to improve the lives of ordinary South Africans.
MMC for Community Development, councillor Nonhlanhla Sifumba said Joburg City Parks and Zoo, owned by the City of Joburg, has maintained and been consistent in its mandate to improve the quality of residents and visitors to parks, nature reserves, protected areas and public spaces.
She congratulated Joburg City Parks and Zoo, saying they have looked into ways to find new revenue streams, adding that the call to act now to address environmental concerns resonates with the NDP’s 2030 plans.
“JCPZ over the years provided platforms for young entrepreneurs in the inner city, rolled out closed-circuit television (CCTV) monitored ablution facilities and secured resourced resident associations to maintain a visible presence in area based parks. This alleviates pressure on law enforcement agencies while the local security presence acts as a deterrent to opportunistic crime and creates a sense of pride and ownership to residents.”
According to Sifumba, the Joburg Zoo’s visitor numbers have increased by 500 000 a year, with the zoo spearheading a number of breeding programmes aimed at increasing and preserving endangered species such as the wattled crane which is one of the rarest crane species in the world.
Sifumba added other accolades they have received this year such as the Arbor Award shows the efforts and commitment of Joburg City Parks and Zoo employees.
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