News

Cape Town Implements Sustainable Management of Chacma Baboon Population

April 27, 2023

1 min read

sustainable management chacma baboon population

The City of Cape Town has taken a significant step towards sustainable management of the Chacma baboon population on the Cape Peninsula. On April 25, 2023, the City’s Council approved the Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) between the City, South African National Parks (SANParks), and CapeNature.

Coordinated Approach Across Three Spheres of Government

The MoA proposes a coordinated approach involving all three spheres of government to fulfill their respective functions and mandates towards the sustainable management of the Chacma baboon population. The City’s responsibilities focus on local government functions such as waste management, fences, roads, wildlife-friendly municipal infrastructure, and by-law enforcement.

Draft Baboon Strategic Management Plan

The draft Baboon Strategic Management Plan is an operational plan requiring commitment and cooperation from various City directorates, including Spatial Planning and Environment, Urban Waste Management, Safety and Security, Energy, Water and Sanitation, Urban Mobility, Community Services and Health, Economic Growth, and Corporate Services. Similarly, the plan requires the commitment of SANParks and CapeNature to fulfill several functions.

Partnerships with Stakeholders

Partnerships with other stakeholders, such as scientific academic institutions, animal welfare authorities, civil society, non-governmental organizations, and communities living in areas adjacent to the baboons’ natural habitat, are pivotal to the successful implementation of this new sustainable approach.

Extension of Urban Baboon Programme

The extension of the current contract for the Urban Baboon Programme for 18 months, from May 5 to November 18, 2024, is necessary to transition from the current status quo to a new era where the three spheres of government work together to provide resources and services in line with their respective mandates. The City is obliged to source public comment on its intention to extend the contract until December 31, 2024, as per the Municipal Finance Management Act.

Call for Public Comments

The call for comments on the intention to extend the current Urban Baboon Programme will be advertised on May 5, 2023, and includes rangers to assist with keeping baboons out of the urban areas as far as possible. Partnerships with various stakeholders are pivotal to the successful implementation of this new sustainable approach.

Signing of MoA

The MoA is an essential tool for coordinating the sustainable management of the Chacma baboon population, and the City Manager has the mandate to sign the MoA on the administration’s behalf, once all parties – the City, SANParks, and CapeNature – have signed the document. This is a significant step towards ensuring the City enters legally into an agreement with the other spheres of government. The City is working hard to meet the deadline of June 30, 2023, to ensure there is a bridging period before the new dispensation comes into effect.

Kenny G’s Grand Return: South African Tour 2025

Kenny G is making a grand return to South Africa in October 2025, with thrilling performances in Durban, Cape Town, and Pretoria. Fans are buzzing with excitement as they prepare to hear his beautiful saxophone melodies live, marking his first visit in over twenty years. Tickets go on sale March 28, 2025, and are expected to sell out fast! This tour promises a magical night filled with both classic hits and new songs, making it a mustsee for jazz lovers everywhere.

Supermarkets Take Action to Ensure Consumer Safety and Trust

Supermarkets like Shoprite, Checkers, Usave, and OK Foods are taking big steps to keep customers safe and happy. They are recalling cereal products because some labels had wrong nutritional information. Shoppers can return these cereals for a full refund, even if the box is opened, showing the stores really care about what they sell. This move highlights how important it is for businesses to be honest and keep customers informed about what they eat. It’s all about building trust and ensuring everyone can make safe choices!

Latest from Blog

The Debate Over Starlink’s Entry into South Africa: Technological Potential vs. Regulatory Hurdles

The entry of Starlink, Elon Musk’s satellite internet service, into South Africa is facing tough challenges due to local laws that require foreign companies to partner with local investors. Critics argue that these rules slow down internet access, especially in rural areas. Supporters, like former politician Tony Leon, believe that easing these regulations could boost technology and improve relations with the U.S. However, Starlink recently withdrew its application to operate in the country, raising concerns about how South Africa can attract foreign investment while addressing historical inequalities. This debate highlights the struggle between supporting local interests and embracing new technology for a better future.

Unmasking the Veil: The Hidden Campaign of the Trump Administration

The Trump administration’s costcutting efforts, led by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), are shrouded in mystery, raising alarms about honesty in government. With major cuts to global aid, especially in health and education, trust in the administration is fading. Many worry that the figures reported as savings are misleading, and the lack of detailed information on contracts only adds to the confusion. As legal battles unfold, the need for clear communication and accountability becomes even more urgent, reminding us that open governance is crucial for public confidence.

Major Supermarkets Recall Heartland Foods Cereals: A Commitment to Transparency and Accountability

Major supermarket chains like Shoprite and Checkers are recalling Heartland Foods cereals because some labels had wrong nutritional information. Even though they didn’t get any complaints, they want to be honest and keep customers safe. Shoppers can easily return the affected cereals for a full refund, no receipt needed! This recall shows how much these stores care about their customers and keeping food safe.

The South African Housing Market: A Journey Through Economic Terrain

The South African housing market is a tale of two cities. Cape Town’s home prices have shot up by 25%, attracting many buyers despite the rising cost of living, while Johannesburg’s prices have climbed more modestly at 12%, making it a tempting option for those seeking better economic stability. Many people are reconsidering where to live, with some returning to Johannesburg for a sense of comfort and affordability. As economic pressures weigh heavily, both cities tell a story of resilience and adaptation as South Africans navigate their changing world, searching for a place they can call home.

Cape Town’s ‘Invested in Hope’ Budget: A Vision for the Future

Cape Town’s ‘Invested in Hope’ Budget for 2025/26 is a big plan to help the city and its people. With R39.7 billion set aside, the budget focuses on making essential services like water and electricity more affordable for lowerincome families. Mayor Geordin HillLewis shared this vision on a sunny morning, aiming to improve community safety by adding more police officers and reshaping the city’s infrastructure. While some celebrate these changes, others express concerns about added costs and the need for better crime prevention. Overall, this budget hopes to pave the way for a brighter future for all Cape Town residents.

the ultimate mother city guide

Cape Town Implements Sustainable Management of Chacma Baboon Population