Knysna’s Blue Flag Triumph Seaside Excellence Shines Again
Brenton-on-Sea and Buffalo Bay beaches have once again secured Blue Flag status for the upcoming 2023/2024 holiday season. The marinas of Thesen Islands and Thesen Harbour Town have also been granted this prestigious recognition.
Mr. Ombali Sebola, Knysna Municipal Manager, highlighted the significance of the Blue Flag, a globally recognized voluntary award for beaches, marinas, and sustainable tourism boats. He emphasized that each beach undergoes evaluation in four key categories: Environmental Education and Awareness, Water Quality, Environmental Management, and Safety Services. Meeting and maintaining specific criteria is essential for qualification, and Knysna has a dedicated internal program to ensure compliance and uphold the necessary standards.
South Africa has been actively participating in the Blue Flag program since 2001, implemented by the Wildlife Environmental Society of South Africa (WESSA). Sebola explained that this international coastal management accreditation program acknowledges excellence in water quality, environmental management, environmental education and information, as well as safety and services. He pointed out the universal access, clear signage, control of domestic animals, effective waste and environmental management, and education as key criteria for achieving and maintaining Blue Flag status. The program offers numerous benefits, including improved tourism facilities, enhanced coastal ecosystem management, capacity building for coastal municipalities, and increased public awareness.
Sebola expressed gratitude to various stakeholders for their hard work, acknowledging the importance of Blue Flag beaches in the tourism offering. He thanked the WESSA team, SANParks, residents of Brenton and Buffalo Bay, the Environmental team led by Pam Booth, and the Thesen Islands Homeowners Association and Thesen Harbour Town management team for their dedication. As the region prepares for a bustling holiday season, Sebola looks forward to welcoming summer guests and ensuring a memorable experience.
The official award ceremony in Wilderness on October 20th was attended by Knysna Executive Deputy Mayor and Portfolio Chairperson, Cllr Alberto Marbi, and the recently appointed Director for Planning and Development, Andiswa Dunywa.