The Department of Integrated Environment Management regrets to inform the community, particularly religious groups, spiritualists, and traditional healers who are frequent visitors to the Kenmare Kloof—that the area will be temporarily closed, effective from 25 May 2025.
This decision follows inspections that revealed widespread non-compliance with the National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act (NEM:PAA). These findings arise as a result of Kenmare Kloof recently being officially declared a protected area by the Gauteng Department of Environment.
Over the years, Mogale City Local Municipality has faced ongoing challenges regarding the illegal use and occupation of municipal land within the kloof. What was once a pristine natural environment has sadly deteriorated due to pollution and environmental degradation. Individuals from across the country have used the area for spiritual and traditional rituals, some harvesting protected plant species, others engaging in animal sacrifices or establishing unauthorized permanent settlements, all of which are prohibited under the Protected Areas Act.
During the closure, the municipality will be taking steps to address these violations and develop a sustainable management plan to ensure long-term compliance with environmental legislation. As such, all activities including public access, commercial use, and any unauthorized occupation, will be strictly prohibited until further notice.
We strongly urge all members of the public to refrain from visiting the area during this period.