A mountain landscape of regional and global importance

The Maloti-Drakensberg contains southern Africa’s only alpine environment and the highest mountain terrain in Africa south of Mount Kilimanjaro. Its high-altitude grasslands, wetlands, rivers and carbon-rich soils support biodiversity and livelihoods far beyond the mountain itself.

Water security. The plateau and escarpment form the headwaters of major river systems. Water originating in these mountains supports communities, agriculture, industry and cities across southern Africa.

Wetlands. Alpine wetlands store and slowly release water, moderate streamflow, retain sediment and provide specialised habitat. Their degradation can alter flow regimes and reduce vital ecosystem services.

Carbon. Cool, wet conditions favour the accumulation of organic matter. Alpine soils and wetlands therefore represent important carbon stores that may be lost when soils erode or wetlands become incised.

Biodiversity. The mountain system supports distinctive montane and alpine plants and animals, including species with restricted distributions and high conservation importance.

Rangelands and livelihoods. Mountain grasslands support communal grazing, transhumance, tourism and local economies. Environmental change can directly affect the people who depend on these resources.

A landscape under pressure. Climate change, erosion, wetland degradation, unsustainable grazing, invasive species, mining and infrastructure development are reshaping the system. Long-term evidence is needed to guide effective responses.