The Magaliesberg Biosphere Reserve celebrated its 10th birthday on 9 June 2025!
“We proudly celebrate a decade since the Magaliesberg Biosphere Reserve was officially designated by UNESCO, under their Man and Biosphere Programme. A milestone for all who cherish this unique and ancient landscape — and none more so than Professor Paul Fatti, a steadfast champion of the Magaliesberg Mountains, a Core Area of the biosphere,” Belinda Cooper of the Magaliesberg Biosphere NPC said.
Ten years ago, Professor Fatti was part of the South African delegation that travelled to UNESCO headquarters in Paris to witness the designation of the Magaliesberg Biosphere. But that moment, historic as it was, marked only one step in a determined journey of over 50 years!
From his early years as chairman of the Mountain Club of South Africa to his leadership in the Magaliesberg Protection Association, Paul has been at the forefront of conservation efforts in the Magaliesberg Mountains. His influence has shaped both policy and public awareness.
In 1977, thanks in large part to Paul’s tireless lobbying, the high ground of the Magaliesberg was proclaimed the first “Natural Area” in South Africa under the Physical Planning Act. This landmark achievement laid the foundation for further protections under the Environmental Conservation Act of 1989 and later the National Environmental Management Protected Areas Act of 2003, under which the Magaliesberg was designated a “Protected Environment”.
Inspired by the 1999 inscription of the Cradle of Humankind as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Paul joined Vincent Carruthers and others in a bold vision: to secure international recognition for the entire region. Their campaign, supported by the NW Province, Gauteng and the Department of Environment, ultimately led to the declaration of the Magaliesberg Biosphere Reserve – a globally recognised model for reconciling biodiversity conservation with sustainable land use.
Today, Paul Fatti continues to serve on the Board of the Biosphere, bringing decades of knowledge, passion, and hope for the future.
“On this special day, we extend gratitude for Paul’s legacy of leadership, resilience, and belief in the Magaliesberg’s irreplaceable value. And to the Biosphere, we say: here’s to the next ten years of protection, progress, and promise.”