Monday, 2 February 2026
No Embargo
Johannesburg Zoo launches three-day ‘Reverse the Red’ programme with partners, schools, universities, and the public from 6–8 February 2026.
The Johannesburg Zoo will mark its participation in the global Reverse the Red movement with a dynamic three-day programme from 6 to 8 February 2026, bringing together schools, universities, conservation partners, and the public to champion species recovery and biodiversity action in the heart of the city.
Reverse the Red (RTR) is a coordinated global effort led by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and supported by the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA), of which the Johannesburg Zoo is a member. The campaign aims to halt and reverse the decline of threatened species through measurable, science-based collaboration.
Programme at a glance.
Friday, 6 February — Schools Day
- Targeting 300 school learners for hands-on activities, guided tours, and interactive conservation storytelling aligned to the curriculum and Reverse the Red themes.
The much-anticipated launch of the RTR wall will be unveiled during the proceedings, and various exhibits will participate in the three-day planned events. The City Sightseeing bus has been scheduled for Friday, 6 February 2026, and Sunday, 8 February 2026 at the Joburg Zoo.
Saturday, 7 February — Conservation Collaboration Day
- A showcase of partnerships, conservation science, innovation, universities, and public demonstrations. Displays in animal sections and knowledge sharing led by partner organisations and the Zoo’s conservation team, as well as industrial theatre.
Sunday, 8 February — Reverse the Red Zoo Trot
- A festive, family-friendly run/walk through the Zoo, starts at 07h00 sharp and ends at 12h00.
- Participants are encouraged to wear animal-themed masks to celebrate biodiversity and show solidarity with species under threat.
- Region B Sports & Recreation will support the Sunday activations (for community sport and wellness engagement, which will be taking place at the Centenary Lawn.
Confirmed partners and participation
IUCN
SANParks Honorary Rangers
Department of Water and Sanitation
Rand Water
Tshwane University of Technology
EISD
Thanduxolo Mendrew, Managing Director of Johannesburg City Parks & Zoo (JCPZ), said:
“At a time when our continent’s natural systems are under immense pressure, Johannesburg is choosing courage, science, and community. Reverse the Red is more than a campaign — it is a promise to future generations. The Johannesburg Zoo stands proudly with our partners to restore threatened species, strengthen ecosystems, and reconnect people with nature. Every learner engaged, every citizen who shows up, and every species protected brings us closer to a future where Africa’s biodiversity thrives, not declines.”
Call to action
Residents, families, runners, and nature enthusiasts are invited to attend, participate, and take practical steps that contribute to species recovery and ecosystem health. Programme updates and final partner day-allocations will be shared via the Zoo’s official channels.
About the Johannesburg Zoo
The Johannesburg Zoo is a leading conservation, education, and research institution in Sub-Saharan Africa, working with local communities and global partners to protect threatened species and strengthen ecological resilience.
ENDS
Issued on behalf of Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo
