by Ria Olivier | Dec 1, 2025 | Antarctica, International Days, SANAP, SCAR
Honouring South Africa’s Place in the Antarctic Treaty and Our Shared Polar Heritage
Every year on 1 December, the global Antarctic community pauses to celebrate International Antarctica Day—a tribute to the signing of the Antarctic Treaty in 1959. For the Antarctic Legacy of South Africa (ALSA), this day holds special significance. It is a moment to reflect on South Africa’s historic and ongoing contributions to the protection, research, and preservation of the frozen continent.
A Treaty That Changed the World: In the aftermath of the International Geophysical Year, representatives from twelve nations met in Washington between 1958 and early 1959 to craft a treaty that would safeguard Antarctica for peaceful and scientific purposes. Their work culminated on 1 December 1959, when the Antarctic Treaty was signed by: Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Chile, France, Japan, New Zealand, Norway, South Africa, the USSR, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The Treaty entered into force on 23 June 1961, establishing these nations as the original Consultative Parties—a group entrusted with stewardship of Antarctica.
Core Principles of the Antarctic Treaty: Over the decades, the Treaty has expanded into the Antarctic Treaty System, a comprehensive framework guiding environmental protection, science, and international collaboration. The Antarctic Treaty is built on 14 articles that ensure:
- Peaceful use only: Antarctica is dedicated to peace; no military bases, manoeuvres, weapons testing, or nuclear activities are allowed.
- Freedom of scientific research: Scientific investigation, cooperation, and exchange of information, personnel, and results are at the heart of Antarctic activity.
- No sovereign claims: Territorial claims are neither recognised nor disputed, and no new claims may be made.
The Madrid Protocol – Protecting a Natural Reserve. – One of the most important developments within this system is the Protocol on Environmental Protection, commonly known as the Madrid Protocol. This landmark agreement declares Antarctica a “natural reserve devoted to peace and science.” All consultative members—South Africa included—commit to responsible environmental management, ensuring minimal impact from human activity.
South Africa’s Role in Antarctica. As the only African nation represented in the Antarctic Treaty System, South Africa’s engagement carries continental importance. From early explorers and overwintering teams to modern scientists and support personnel, South Africans have played a vital role in shaping the human story of Antarctica. Our contributions include:
- Decades of scientific research at SANAE and earlier stations
- A long tradition of logistical support for international science programmes
- The preservation of heritage, photographs, stories, and documents through ALSA
- Continued commitment to environmental protection under the Treaty’s principles
Celebrating Our Shared Legacy. On this International Antarctica Day, ALSA celebrates the vision of the 12 nations who signed the Antarctic Treaty—and South Africa’s proud position among them. The Treaty remains a rare symbol of global cooperation, scientific freedom, and peaceful governance. Antarctica belongs to no one, yet it is cared for by many.
As we look to the future, ALSA remains dedicated to preserving the legacy of South Africa’s Antarctic journey for generations to come.
by Ria Olivier | Oct 7, 2025 | Antarctica, Current Event, Gough Island, International Days, Marine Protected Area, Marion Island
October marks the celebration of Maritime Month, a time when nations across the world reflect on the vital role that oceans, ships, and seafarers play in connecting the global community. In South Africa, a country with a proud maritime heritage and stewardship of some of the world’s most important sea routes. South Africa celebrates maritime month and highlights the significance of our oceans to trade, research, and environmental sustainability. As a nation deeply intertwined with the Southern Ocean, South Africa’s maritime strength extends far beyond its ports — it reaches all the way to Antarctica through the work of the South African National Antarctic Programme (SANAP).
Within SANAP, maritime excellence is at the heart of our operations. Each expedition to Marion Island, Gough Island, and Antarctica depends on the dedication and skill of South Africa’s maritime professionals — from the crews who navigate the S.A. Agulhas II, to the scientists and support teams who rely on her safe passage to conduct world-leading research in some of the planet’s most remote and challenging environments. As we celebrate Maritime Month, SANAP honours all those who make these voyages possible, and reaffirms our commitment to sustainable ocean science, environmental protection, and the advancement of South Africa’s blue economy.
Marine Month 2025: 1 to 31 October
- National Marine Month creates awareness of South Africa’s marine and coastal environments and the benefits that our oceans bring to our nation. South Africa is nestled between two currents; the warm Agulhas Current with rich ocean biodiversity and the cold Benguela. These currents, in addition to the cold southern oceans, are key drivers of South Africa climate and rainfall conditions. South Africa’s different climatic zones, with its different bio-diversities, agricultural and economic activities, are shaped by the availability of one of our scarcest resources, namely fresh water.
Feature Photo: Taken by Jean Brundrit with a lens made with ice – read more here
by Ria Olivier | Oct 2, 2025 | Antarctica, Engineering, Jobs, Research, SANAE, Science
Programme: Space Science: Volunteer
This is a unique opportunity for individuals with a scientific and/or engineering background, who are eager for an extraordinary experience in a remote Antarctic environment. We are currently assembling a team to participate in the annual relief expedition to SANAE IV, Antarctica. The SANAE IV station in Antarctica lies at 71°S, 2°W – 4280 km from East Pier in Cape Town Harbour. (Photo above taken in 2022 during the annual relief voyage)
Successful candidates will embark on the SA Agulhas II, South Africa’s polar research and supply vessel, for a voyage of approximately 14 days to Antarctica. Upon arrival, they will be stationed at the SANAE IV research base for the entire relief period. Volunteers will work under the guidance of the Group Leader/Senior Engineer, assisting with critical infrastructure maintenance, scientific instrument servicing, and logistical operations during the expedition.
Voyage Dates: 9 December 2025 – 9 February 2026 (TBC)
For more information: Click Here
by Ria Olivier | Sep 23, 2025 | Antarctica, Gough Island, Heritage Day, Important Dates, Marion Island
Heritage Day on 24 September recognises and celebrates the cultural wealth of our nation. Across South Africa, people reflect on our shared histories, diverse traditions, and the heritage that continues to shape our identity.
Antarctic Legacy of South Africa (ALSA) collaborated with Iziko Museums of South Africa in Cape Town to highlight a special part of our heritage – our polar research history. Visitors to the museum will encounter banners dedicated to South Africa’s polar heritage.
Iziko Museums in Cape Town host a permanent exhibition the Sentinels of The South – (above the display of South Africa’s first explorers:
“The exhibition examines the history, discoveries and current role of South Africa’s Antarctic and Southern Ocean exploration. It takes visitors through the background and challenges of early Antarctic exploration, and South Africa’s contribution to it. The rich and unique biodiversity found on these islands, and the part the islands play in helping us understand some of the global issues affecting everyday South Africans, are highlighted. The exhibition also showcases South Africa’s multidisciplinary Antarctic scientific endeavours, our state-of-the-art research facilities, and our flagship research vessel, the SA Agulhas II.”
On Heritage Day visit the IZIKO museum in Cape Town to learn about South Africa’s Polar Heritage
South Africans celebrate Heritage Day by remembering the cultural traditions and histories that make up the fabric of our nation. Across the country, various events bring communities together in celebration.
Visit and Discover
On Heritage Day, we invite you to visit Iziko Museums in Cape Town and immerse yourself in South Africa’s Polar Heritage. Learn more about our explorers, scientists, and the role our country plays in global Antarctic research.
Heritage is not only about where we come from – it is also about the legacies we build for the future. By celebrating our polar research heritage, we acknowledge the contributions of South Africans past and present, ensuring that this important story remains part of our national identity.
by Ria Olivier | Sep 16, 2025 | Announcement, Antarctica, International Days
On 16 September, we join the global community in celebrating the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer, commemorating the signing of the Montreal Protocol in 1987. The ozone layer acts as Earth’s protective shield, filtering harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. Thanks to international cooperation and scientific research, the ozone hole is slowly healing, reminding us of the power of collective action in safeguarding our planet.
South Africa contributes directly to this global effort through the South African National Antarctic Programme (SANAP). At SANAE IV in Antarctica, as well as on Marion and Gough Islands, SANAP scientists conduct long-term atmospheric and environmental monitoring. This includes measuring stratospheric ozone levels, UV radiation, and atmospheric interactions—critical data that help track ozone recovery and understand climate–ozone linkages.
By providing empirical observations from the Antarctic—one of the most sensitive regions for ozone depletion—SANAP’s research supports international scientific assessments and strengthens policy decisions under the Montreal Protocol. Today, as we mark Ozone Day, we celebrate the progress made and reaffirm SANAP’s commitment to advancing research that protects both the ozone layer and future generations.
by Ria Olivier | Aug 9, 2025 | Antarctica, Gough Island, Humanities, International Days, Legacy, Marion Island, SANAE, Southern Ocean, Women in Science
Celebrating the Women of SANAP this Women’s Month
Ukubhiyozela Amabhinqa SANAP kule Nyanga Yabafazi
Sibungaza Abesifazane SANAP Kule Nyanga Yabesifazane
Ho Keteka Basali SANAP Kgweding ya Basadi
Ons Vier die Vroue van SANAP in Vrouemaand
Each year on the 9th of August, South Africans of all backgrounds, races and cultural groups join together in celebrating National Women’s Day. This significant day, and the month of August as a whole, offers us the opportunity to honour the remarkable women who continue to shape the South African National Antarctic Programme (SANAP). From overwintering team members braving the extremes of Antarctica, Marion and Gough Islands, to the researchers expanding our understanding of climate, ocean, and biodiversity systems — their contributions are integral to SANAP’s mission.
We also pay tribute to the women behind the scenes: administrators, logistics coordinators, construction workers, and technical staff who ensure the success of every expedition and the operation of our remote bases. These women embody resilience, leadership, and innovation in one of the world’s most challenging environments.
As we celebrate Women’s Month, SANAP proudly acknowledges and thanks all women — past and present — whose dedication and excellence drive our programme forward.
Core Principles of the Antarctic Treaty: Over the decades, the Treaty has expanded into the Antarctic Treaty System, a comprehensive framework guiding environmental protection, science, and international collaboration. The Antarctic Treaty is built on 14 articles that ensure:
As we look to the future, ALSA remains dedicated to preserving the legacy of South Africa’s Antarctic journey for generations to come.
Programme: Space Science: Volunteer 
This is a unique opportunity for individuals with a scientific and/or engineering background, who are eager for an extraordinary experience in a remote Antarctic environment. We are currently assembling a team to participate in the annual relief expedition to SANAE IV, Antarctica. The SANAE IV station in Antarctica lies at 71°S, 2°W – 4280 km from East Pier in Cape Town Harbour. (Photo above taken in 2022 during the annual relief voyage)
Successful candidates will embark on the SA Agulhas II, South Africa’s polar research and supply vessel, for a voyage of approximately 14 days to Antarctica. Upon arrival, they will be stationed at the SANAE IV research base for the entire relief period. Volunteers will work under the guidance of the Group Leader/Senior Engineer, assisting with critical infrastructure maintenance, scientific instrument servicing, and logistical operations during the expedition.
Antarctic Legacy of South Africa (ALSA) collaborated with Iziko Museums of South Africa in Cape Town to highlight a special part of our heritage – our polar research history. Visitors to the museum will encounter banners dedicated to South Africa’s polar heritage.
South Africa contributes directly to this global effort through the South African National Antarctic Programme (SANAP). At SANAE IV in Antarctica, as well as on Marion and Gough Islands, SANAP scientists conduct long-term atmospheric and environmental monitoring. This includes measuring stratospheric ozone levels, UV radiation, and atmospheric interactions—critical data that help track ozone recovery and understand climate–ozone linkages.
Each year on the 9th of August, South Africans of all backgrounds, races and cultural groups join together in celebrating 
We also pay tribute to the women behind the scenes: administrators, logistics coordinators, construction workers, and technical staff who ensure the success of every expedition and the operation of our remote bases. These women embody resilience, leadership, and innovation in one of the world’s most challenging environments.
