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In a bold move to realign with global conservation standards and address the ethical challenges facing the captive lion industry in South Africa, the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr. Dion George, has issued a call to action. He is urging individuals involved in the operation of breeding lions for trade in bones and derivatives to consider a voluntary exit from these practices.
South Africa hosts the largest captive lion population in the world, estimated to be about 8,000. This industry has come under fire for not aligning with global conservation standards, animal welfare concerns, and mounting regulatory issues. The uncertainties and external pressures present significant sustainability challenges that can no longer be overlooked.
In unveiling a suite of voluntary exit options and pathways, Dr. George emphasized key principles to steer the process—of paramount importance is the prevention of unemployment for those vulnerable individuals dependent on the industry for their livelihood. Pillars of sustainable use are also being upheld in the exit strategy development.
To set the process in motion, the then-Minister Barbara Creecy had appointed a Ministerial Task Team back in December 2022 to chart out these voluntary exit paths. After thorough research and analysis, the team submitted their recommendations on February 15, 2024. The report, now released to the public, forms the basis of the next steps in the initiative.
Recognizing the gravity of such a transition, every effort is being made to ensure a transparent and confidential process. Those who elect to participate by registering their interest in the voluntary exit offer will not be automatically obliged to follow through, thus leaving space for stakeholders to make informed decisions.
The ministerial team, reconstituted to implement the recommendations, is committed to disseminating a detailed plan on how the surrendering of lion bone stockpiles and derivatives will unfold. This includes the complete implementation process, which will be open for public commentary and input.
Registration is the first phase, and interested parties have a 120-day window from the Government Gazette's notice date to express their intention. This information can be found in Government Notice No. 4765, Government Gazette No. 50574, dated April 26, 2024. The link to the Government Gazette notice is accessible online for comprehensive perusal.
This initiative marks a significant shift in South Africa's approach to wildlife management—moving away from captive breeding of lions for commercial exploitation towards ensuring that any use of wildlife is responsible, ethical, and scientifically justified.