The MEC for Agriculture, Environmental Affairs, Rural Development and Land Reform Ms Mase Manopole has challenged all South Africans, particularly the Northern Cape Community to join hands in stopping the collection, buying and poaching of indigenous plants, animals and reptile species which in most instances are either threatened or protected in the terms of National Environmental Management Biodiversity Act.

This comes as a results of the expected influx of tourists in to the Namakwa Region for end of year festivities. The operation is also in line with the provision of Operation Phakisa.MEC Manopole is leading a team of various stakeholders including the South African Police Services on the awareness campaign on the N7 Namibian Cape route in Garies in the Namakwa District Municipality.