South Africa

South Africa ranks as the third most biodiverse country in the world. It is recognised for high levels of endemism and is home to over 95,000 known species. The country also boasts a diverse range of biomes, from forests to deserts, estuaries and marine systems. Biodiversity, ecological infrastructure, and associated ecosystem services act as an invaluable foundation for South Africa’s economy. From tourism to fishing, farming and industry, the products and services provided by nature support people’s wellbeing, livelihoods, jobs and security.   

BIOFIN in South Africa is implemented by UNDP Country Office and the national Department of Environmental Affairs, in collaboration with the SANBI, SANParks, National Treasury and Statistics South Africa. The BIOFIN programme in South Africa is currently implementing 8 Finance Solutions

Key Results

  • The first national Biodiversity Finance Plan has been approved by the government, shortlisting 15 finance solutions to be implemented to close the Financing gap at the national level.
  • Unlock private finances for communal land by setting up and launching the first-ever South African Biodiversity Sector Investment Platform. https://www.biodiversityinvestment.co.za/
  • The set up of South Africa’s first-ever wildlife certification scheme which will improve sustainability practices and contribute to target 3 of the Global Biodiversity Framework.
  • Raise awareness of the role of the financial sector by conducting the first assessment on the Nature-related risk disclosure framework in South Africa.
Finance Solutions
Key Documents
Finance Plan (BFP)

The BFP presents a suite of finance solutions designed to address the finance gap in a comprehensive and complementary manner. Some 15 finance solutions have been prioritised, clustered around ecosystem restoration, protected area expansion and management, and the sustainable use of biodiversity. The BFP is currently awaiting ministerial approval.