South Africa

The South African Scout Association is the World Organization of the Scout Movement recognized Scouting association in South Africa. Scouting began in the United Kingdom in 1907 through the efforts of Robert Baden-Powell and rapidly spread to South Africa, with the first Scout troops appearing in 1908. South Africa has contributed many traditions and symbols to World Scouting.
The South African Scout Association caters for youth and young adults from the age of 7 till 30. It is split into three sections, namely Cubs, Scouts and Rovers, with each section serving a different age group, and concentrating on different areas of personal development. It is also one of the largest youth organisations in the rural parts of South Africa and performs many community upliftment programmes in those areas.
The highest award attainable by a Scout in the South African Scout Association is the Springbok award. A Scout is required to complete all the requirements for the Springbok award before their 18th birthday.