Mr. Themba Mathebula proudly represented the Northern Cape Province at the BRICS Geographers Special Event, held from 20 to 22 October 2025 in Cairo, Egypt. The international gathering brought together experts, academics, and policymakers from Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa to share ideas on key environmental and geographical challenges facing their countries.

Mr. Mathebula delivered an insightful presentation titled “A Namaqua Problem: Poaching of Succulents in the Arid Regions of South Africa.” His talk focused on the growing threat of illegal succulent poaching, which is driven by global demand for rare and decorative plants. He explained how this trade is damaging the fragile ecosystems of Namaqualand and endangering several unique species found in South Africa. In his presentation, Mr. Mathebula also highlighted other serious threats facing the region, including invasive plant species, beetle infestations, overgrazing by livestock, and the worsening effects of climate change. These issues, he warned, are putting immense pressure on already vulnerable arid landscapes. He called for stronger law enforcement, greater community participation, and international cooperation to protect South Africa’s biodiversity and promote sustainable land use. Mr. Mathebula’s contribution was well received by fellow delegates and sparked meaningful discussions about how BRICS countries can work together to tackle shared environmental challenges. His participation showcased the Northern Cape’s commitment to environmental conservation and research excellence on the global stage.

The programme also included educational site visits to the Centre for Documentation of Cultural and Natural Heritage, the Egyptian Museum, and the Wadi El-Hitan Protected Area—a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its remarkable paleontological significance and known as the Valley of the Whales.