The visit comes after weeks of public criticism over the state of the garden’s facilities and certain collections. (Photo: Provided)
Is the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden really deteriorating, or is it the target of a calculated social media campaign? This question was in the spotlight this week when Willie Aucamp, Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, went to investigate himself on Wednesday together with a prominent botanist.
It comes after weeks of public criticism over the state of the garden’s facilities and certain collections.
The minister invited the well-known botanist, Eugene Moll, a former professor from the University of Cape Town, to walk with him through Kirstenbosch and determine first-hand whether the criticism is justified.
Moll, a respected plant ecologist and botanist, was accompanied by Shonisani Munzhedzi, the chief executive of the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI).
During the visit, several key areas were examined, including the seed bank, the succulent collection and the nursery facilities.
During the visit, several key areas were examined, including the seed bank, the succulent collection and the nursery facilities. (Photo: Provided)
‘Didn’t realize the standard was already so high’
After the walking tour, Moll gave a strikingly positive assessment of the garden.
“I didn’t realize that the facilities at Kirstenbosch were up to the standard they are now. When you walk here yourself and see what is being done, you get a much more complete picture than what sometimes emerges in the public debate.”
He specifically referred to earlier concerns about the succulent collections.
“There were indeed challenges in that department a few months ago, it is not something that can be talked away. But it is important to say that those problems have since been fixed. What I see today is an institution that is recovering and in some respects even improving.”
‘Image painted is misleading’
Aucamp said after the visit that the observations on the site did not match some of the claims that had been made recently.
“While there are certainly challenges that need to be tackled, the image of widespread decay that is being painted is simply not entirely accurate and does not reflect the entirety of Kirstenbosch.”
He says SANBI has already received clear instructions and timelines to accelerate improvements.
“We do not ignore problems. Where there are shortcomings, they are corrected with clear direction and accountability.”
Social media campaign and earlier complaints
The minister also referred to a social media campaign that was launched by James Deacon and which, according to him, fueled the debate further.
According to the information, complaints filed by Deacon in February have already been handled by SANBI. A site visit followed and discussions were then held, after which there was mutual agreement that the matter was settled.
“That process has already been completed after direct involvement with Deacon and the institution.”
He says that the revival of the same allegations on social media “is not constructive and does not reflect the full facts”.
The minister described Deacon’s actions as “unhelpful and misleading”.
‘It must not become a showpiece’
Aucamp also emphasized that the restoration and maintenance of Kirstenbosch cannot be approached superficially.
“It must not become a showpiece. Kirstenbosch is a national asset with enormous scientific and conservation value, and it must be properly managed and protected for future generations.”
He says the focus should not only be on image, but on sustainable maintenance.
As part of the process going forward, SANBI has been tasked with implementing various improvement initiatives.
This includes rebuilding a strong volunteer program, strengthened succession planning and mentoring, expanding partnerships with local and international experts, and developing income generation initiatives that directly contribute to conservation goals.
“We have to bring the people who have expertise back into this space – not just as observers, but as active partners,” said the minister.
‘There is reason for optimism’
Despite the criticism that preceded the visit, Moll said he left Kirstenbosch with a more balanced view.
“There are challenges, that’s clear, but there’s also a lot of good work being done. I think with the right support, this garden can reach its full potential again.”
Aucamp also praised the staff at Kirstenbosch.
“What I saw today is a team of people with knowledge, commitment and passion. Kirstenbosch is far from written off.”
He reaffirmed that his department remains committed to strengthening South Africa’s botanical gardens and preserving world-class conservation institutions.
“If we manage these institutions correctly, they can still be a source of pride for South Africa and the world.”
The Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden in Cape Town. (Photo: Facebook)