Encouraging a Voluntary Exit from the Captive Lion Industry - Cape Town Today
Customize Consent Preferences

We use cookies to help you navigate efficiently and perform certain functions. You will find detailed information about all cookies under each consent category below.

The cookies that are categorized as "Necessary" are stored on your browser as they are essential for enabling the basic functionalities of the site. ... 

Always Active

Necessary cookies are required to enable the basic features of this site, such as providing secure log-in or adjusting your consent preferences. These cookies do not store any personally identifiable data.

No cookies to display.

Functional cookies help perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collecting feedback, and other third-party features.

No cookies to display.

Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics such as the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.

No cookies to display.

Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.

No cookies to display.

Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with customized advertisements based on the pages you visited previously and to analyze the effectiveness of the ad campaigns.

No cookies to display.

Encouraging a Voluntary Exit from the Captive Lion Industry

1 min read
wildlife conservation captive breeding

The Ministerial Task Team (MTT) has called for captive lion owners who are interested in voluntarily exiting the captive lion industry to register their interest. This move is part of a broader effort to end the commercial use of captive lions and their derivatives.

Background

The MTT was set up in December 2022 by the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Ms. Barbara Creecy, following recommendations from the High-Level Panel. The MTT’s aim is to close the captive breeding sector. Its original deadline was 30 June 2023, but it has been extended by six months, to 31 December 2023.

Identifying Industry Participants

The MTT’s chairperson, Mr. Kamalasen Chetty, has stated that the Task Team is seeking to identify industry participants who are interested in exploring voluntary exit options and pathways. The MTT will offer confidential discussions to each enterprise regarding potential strategies tailored to their needs. Mr. Chetty emphasized the importance of these discussions, taking into account the welfare of captive lions, the impact on workers, and potential economic outcomes.

Stakeholder Engagement

The MTT has conducted extensive stakeholder engagement, gathering input from representatives from the captive lion industry, wildlife associations, and other interested parties. The goal is to obtain viewpoints and input on potential voluntary exit options, as well as terms and conditions associated with these options.

Collaborating with Provincial Nature Conservation Authorities

The MTT has collaborated with provincial nature conservation authorities to gather information on captive lions within their jurisdictions for a national audit of captive-bred lions. This data will be used to develop effective exit strategies and ensure the long-term sustainability of the transition away from the captive lion industry.

Registering Interest

Captive lion owners interested in voluntary exit options are encouraged to register their interest by 21 July 2023. Registrations can be submitted confidentially and without obligation.

Ongoing Commitment to Collaboration

The MTT remains open to receiving viable and pragmatic proposals for voluntary exit options. This ongoing commitment to collaboration demonstrates the Task Team’s dedication to addressing the complex challenges associated with dismantling the captive lion industry.

The MTT’s call for a voluntary exit from the captive lion industry represents a significant step forward in promoting ethical wildlife conservation and management practices. By engaging with industry stakeholders and considering the multifaceted impacts of this transition, the Task Team aims to facilitate a responsible and sustainable shift away from the commercial exploitation of captive lions. As the deadline for registration approaches, the Task Team’s efforts serve as an encouraging example of constructive dialogue and collaboration in pursuit of a more humane and environmentally responsible future.

A Russian-Spanish journalist and Cape Town native, channels his lifelong passion for South Africa into captivating stories for his local blog. With a diverse background and 50 years of rich experiences, Serjio's unique voice resonates with readers seeking to explore Cape Town's vibrant culture. His love for the city shines through in every piece, making Serjio the go-to source for the latest in South African adventures.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.

Previous Story

The Transformation of Wynberg: MyCiTi Bus Service and Upgraded Infrastructure

Next Story

Cape Town’s Infrastructure Transformation: A €100 Million Boost from AFD

Latest from Blog

Unveiling the Rising Threat: Rabies in Cape Fur Seals

Rabies is now a serious threat to Cape Fur Seals, once seen as graceful ocean dwellers. Symptoms like aggression, confusion, foaming at the mouth, and paralysis signal the deadly disease’s presence. A recent shocking video shows a seal acting strangely, raising alarms among scientists. This marks a new danger for marine life, as rabies usually affects land animals. To fight back, researchers are launching a campaign to understand and protect these seals, reminding us how fragile our ocean ecosystems can be.

A Community Shaken: The Assault at Wellington’s BP Garage

A terrible event shook the peaceful town of Wellington when a petrol attendant was violently attacked at the local BP garage. Two men jumped out of their car and, after a simple request to park properly, unleashed an awful assault on the worker. The shocking incident was caught on video, spreading outrage throughout the community and sparking calls for justice. Residents, outraged by the violence, are rallying together, demanding accountability and a safer environment. This incident serves as a painful reminder of the importance of respect and unity in their community.

Uniting Cape Town: The Rise of Cat Fostering

In Cape Town, cat fostering is a heartwarming way for people to help cats and kittens find loving homes. Local groups like Foster Love Animal Rescue and TEARS play vital roles in this effort, making sure these furry friends receive care and support. As residents open their homes to these playful companions, they create strong bonds in their community, all while bringing joy and comfort into their lives. This beautiful movement showcases the city’s love for animals and the collective spirit to make a difference, proving that even in a busy city, kindness and compassion thrive.

The Looming VAT Hike in South Africa: A Deeper Dilemma

South Africa is facing a VAT hike from 15% to 16%, which makes life harder for many families, especially those with low incomes. This increase will raise prices on everyday items, like food and electricity, pushing struggling households into even deeper financial trouble. While the government claims this tax is needed to boost revenue for public services, it does little to fix bigger problems like unemployment and poverty. Instead of just raising taxes, the government should focus on creating jobs and supporting small businesses to help everyone thrive. Without real change, the future looks tough for many South Africans.

Exploring the Underwater Wonders of Cape Town

Cape Town is a magical place for diving, with stunning spots like Castle Rock, colorful kelp forests in False Bay, and the haunting Antipolis wreck. Divers can explore vibrant marine life and beautiful underwater landscapes at around 350 dive sites, perfect for everyone from beginners to experts. The kelp forests feel like an underwater jungle, offering peace and wonder, while the historical wrecks invite adventurous souls to uncover stories from the past. With its rich ecosystems and thrilling encounters with creatures like seals and dolphins, diving in Cape Town is an unforgettable adventure waiting to be discovered!