The 23rd Savanna Science Network Meeting (SSNM) will take place in Skukuza, in the Kruger National Park, from March 2 to 5.

According to SANParks spokesperson JP Louw, the meeting will bring together leading scientists, researchers, conservationists and policymakers from around the globe to address the critical challenges facing savanna ecosystems and the communities that depend on them.

“This is one of the most important scientific gatherings in the world, where research findings are shared, research programmes are evaluated, and biodiversity conservation strategies are discussed. Delegates also collaborate on topics such as fire behaviour, vegetation monitoring, population studies, technological and governance challenges, aerial count strategies and broader savanna ecology in Southern Africa and beyond,” he said.

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Louw added that the meeting coincides with the Kruger’s centenary, marking 100 years of conservation in one of the world’s most iconic protected areas, and will include a presentation reflecting on the recent Kruger floods of January 2026.

“This year’s meeting has 230 registered delegates representing all continents except Antarctica, with 127 from Africa. The close interaction between academics and park authorities facilitated by this meeting is key to promoting proactive, evidence-based decision-making and directing research to address priority conservation management needs. The meeting has always valued capacity building, and students share the platform with world-renowned savanna scientists from across the globe,” Louw explained.

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Information on SANParks Scientific Services is available at: https://www.sanparks.org/conservation/scientific_new/

The SSNM originated when a small group of scientists working on river-related issues in the Kruger reflected on the impacts of the 2000 flood event.

The scope and participation of the meetings quickly expanded to include broader savanna research and delegates from many countries and organisations.

The meeting is now considered the premier international savanna science conference covering socio-ecological research in savannas worldwide.