By,Katherine Pretorius
After years of investigation, reports, and parliamentary discussions, the government has given the green light to halt the practice of captive breeding for lions and rhinos in South Africa.
Environment Minister Barbara Creecy presented a Policy Position to Cabinet, which received approval, signalling an end to the controversial captive breeding of these iconic species. The policy aims to close lion facilities involved in commercial exploitation and end ‘canned’ hunts, which have faced growing criticism.
Additionally, Cabinet agreed to phase out intensive rhino management and captive breeding while focusing on enhancing conservation efforts for wild leopards. The decision also includes limitations on the live export of certain wildlife species to curb the demand from Asian markets for zoo specimens.
Regarding the export of rhino horn and ivory, South Africa will support international trade under favourable conditions, although specifics remain unspecified. The policy opens avenues for debating the contested CITES ban on export but clarifies that there are no immediate plans for rhino horn trade.
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and Environment emphasised that this policy shift aims to improve animal well-being, promote conservation, and ensure sustainable use of Biodiversity, aligning with South Africa’s status as a megadiverse country committed to conservation efforts.
This decision follows years of inquiries and reports, including the Rhino Committee of Inquiry in 2015, the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee Lion Colloquium in 2018, the High-Level Panel Report on key wildlife species in 2021, and the White Paper on Conservation and Sustainable use of Biodiversity in 2023. Public outcry, especially after the release of the documentary “Blood Lions” in 2015, has contributed to the growing opposition against ‘canned’ hunting practices.
Recent events, such as the collapse of a prominent rhino farmer’s breeding program, highlighted the urgency of addressing captive breeding practices. The acceptance of this Policy Position coincides with the Environment Department’s proposal of a Biodiversity Economy Strategy, which aims to expand conservation areas and promote sustainable wildlife tourism while addressing issues such as fair-chase trophy hunting and wild meat harvesting.
This comprehensive strategy outlines a vision for South Africa’s conservation efforts, aiming to protect and preserve its diverse wildlife for future generations.