Archive

23 Feb

 ANIMAL PROTECTION ORGANISATIONS VOW TO VOCIFEROUSLY OPPOSE ATTEMPT BY BREEDERS AND DEALERS TO REOPEN SOUTH AFRICA’S LION BONE TRADE 

ANIMAL PROTECTION ORGANISATIONS VOW TO VOCIFEROUSLY OPPOSE ATTEMPT BY BREEDERS AND DEALERS TO REOPEN SOUTH AFRICA’S LION BONE TRADE  BACKGROUND INFORMATION A legal case has been filed in the High Court of South Africa, Gauteng Division, Pretoria, involving the South African Predator Association (SAPA) and several individuals against the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries, and the […]

17 Feb

ELEPHANT TSWALE DESERVES TO BE RESCUED TO LIVE A FREE LIFE

ELEPHANT TSWALE DESERVES TO BE RESCUED TO LIVE A FREE LIFE READ THE FULL STATEMENT: Two years ago, on Friday 17th of February 2023, Members of the Pro Elephant Network (PREN) sent an urgent open letter the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, the Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency (MTPA) and the MEC, about an elephant called Tswale. […]

1 Feb

Trophy Hunting from Behind Bars

Trophy Hunting from Behind Bars Where Have All the Rhinos Gone Report is a South African retrospective research report which was published in 2021. The Report is a compilation of, and expansion on, the work previously carried out by researchers and investigative journalists over the past two decades. This time period will forever be marked […]

13 Dec

EMS FOUNDATION SUBMISSION ON THE NON-DETRIMENT FINDINGS FOR CERTAIN LISTED SPECIES IN TERMS OF CITES PUBLISHED IN GOVERNMENT GAZETTE NO.51397 OF 15TH OCTOBER 2024

EMS FOUNDATION SUBMISSION ON THE NON-DETRIMENT FINDINGS FOR CERTAIN LISTED SPECIES IN TERMS OF CITES PUBLISHED IN GOVERNMENT GAZETTE NO.51397 OF 15TH OCTOBER 2024 READ FULL SUBMISSION: “These comments are fully endorsed by the Wildlife Animal Protection Forum of South Africa(WAPFSA), a coalition of thirty diverse South African-based organisations united by shared values and objectives. […]

13 Dec

Objections from the EMS Foundation | Annual Export Quotas For Elephant, Black Rhinos and Leopard Hunting Trophies, 2024/2025

Objections from the EMS Foundation | Annual Export Quotas For Elephant, Black Rhinos and Leopard Hunting Trophies, 2024/2025 READ THE FULL SUBMISSION: Excerpts from the EMS Foundation Submission delivered to the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment on Friday 13th December 2024: “We hope that our comments will be constructively considered.  We request that […]

13 Dec

A CHRISTMAS LETTER FROM THE EMS FOUNDATION

A CHRISTMAS LETTER FROM THE EMS FOUNDATION “As you are well-aware, the EMS Foundation is a registered trust, a registered non-profit organization and a public benefit organization. Our mission is the advancement and protection of the rights and generalwelfare of wild animals, children, elderly persons and other vulnerable groups in South Africa and Africa for the purpose of alleviating suffering, disrupting inequality in all of its forms, raising public […]

18 Nov

THE STATE OF SOUTH AFRICA’S CAPTIVE LION INDUSTRY 2024 –  Kicking the Can Further Down the Road

THE STATE OF SOUTH AFRICA’S CAPTIVE LION INDUSTRY 2024 Kicking the Can Further Down the Road The Extinction Business Report and the Captive Lion Industry Colloquium Six years ago, on the 21st August 2018, Michele Pickover, Executive Director of the EMS Foundation and Dr Smaragda Louw, Director of Ban Animal Trading, jointly presented their findings of an eighteen month […]

3 Nov

Is Stellenbosch University Adopting a Dangerous One-Sided Approach to Wildlife Conservation?

Is Stellenbosch University Adopting a Dangerous One-Sided Approach to Wildlife Conservation? “In a letter addressed to the Chancellor and Vice-Chancellor of Stellenbosch University, as well as to the Minister of the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment (DFFE), a collaborative group of wildlife NGOs, the Wildlife Animal Protection Forum of South Africa (WAPFSA), have cautioned that Stellenbosch […]

28 Oct

WHY MINISTER GEORGE MUST OPPOSE THE APPLICATION BY THE SOUTH AFRICAN HUNTERS AND GAME CONSERVATION ASSOCIATION TO REMOVE WELL-BEING CLAUSES FROM ENVIRONMENTAL LEGISLATION

WHY MINISTER GEORGE MUST OPPOSE THE APPLICATION BY THE SOUTH AFRICAN HUNTERS AND GAME CONSERVATION ASSOCIATION TO REMOVE WELL-BEING CLAUSES FROM ENVIRONMENTAL LEGISLATION EMS FOUNDATION PUBLIC STATEMENT Background The EMS Foundation a registered trust, nonprofit and public benefit organisation, established in 2014 is committed to social and inclusive justice, compassion and the advancement and protection […]

15 Oct

EMS FOUNDATION IS INVESTING IN EDUCATION – A PATH TO A BETTER FUTURE FOR ALL

EMS FOUNDATION IS INVESTING IN EDUCATION – A PATH TO A BETTER FUTURE FOR ALL It always seems impossible until its done” Nelson Mandela Nelson Mandela also said: “Education is the most powerful weapon which you use to change the world”. Education is the cornerstone of societal progress, financing educational institutions is an investment in the future well-being […]

16 Sep

TOWARDS FREEDOM JOHANNESBURG ZOO ELEPHANTS IN CASE NO: 32881/2022 EMS FOUNDATION CALLING ON INTERESTED PARTIES TO BE ADMITTED AS AMICUS CURIAE 

TOWARDS FREEDOM JOHANNESBURG ZOO ELEPHANTS IN CASE NO: 32881/2022 EMS FOUNDATION CALLING ON INTERESTED PARTIES TO BE ADMITTED AS AMICUS CURIAE  On the 16th  September 2024, in the application of Animal Law Reform, the EMS Foundation, Chief Stephen Fritz and the Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo, the City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality, MEC: Economic Development, Agriculture, […]

16 Sep

TOWARDS FREEDOM JOHANNESBURG ZOO ELEPHANTS, THE EMS FOUNDATION AND OTHERS PROVIDE RULE A 16A NOTICE TO THE REGISTRAR IN CASE NO:32881/2022 

TOWARDS FREEDOM JOHANNESBURG ZOO ELEPHANTS, THE EMS FOUNDATION AND OTHERS PROVIDE RULE A 16A NOTICE TO THE REGISTRAR IN CASE NO:32881/2022  On the 16th  September 2024, in the application of Animal Law Reform, the EMS Foundation, Chief Stephen Fritz and the Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo, the City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality, MEC: Economic Development, Agriculture, […]

13 Sep

THE CARBON MITIGATION MARKET: PROBLEMS IN AN AFRICAN AND SOUTH AFRICAN CONTEXT

THE CARBON MITIGATION MARKET: PROBLEMS IN AN AFRICAN AND SOUTH AFRICAN CONTEXT Carbon mitigation or carbon offsets is a trading mechanism that enables governments, businesses, or individuals to compensate for their greenhouse gas emissions by investing in projects that reduce, avoid, or remove emissions elsewhere. When an entity invests in a carbon mitigation program, it receives […]

19 Aug

ZOO ELEPHANT CHARLIE: FREE, FREE AT LAST!

OFFICIAL MEDIA RELEASE ZOO ELEPHANT CHARLIE: FREE, FREE AT LAST! Thirty years after democracy, the last elephant in South Africa’s only national zoo has been freed.  After a nail-biting 4 hour trip towards freedom, the EMS Foundation is thrilled to announce that Elephant Charlie has arrived at his new home at the Shambala Private Reserve […]

29 Jul

OFFICIAL MEDIA RELEASE: PRETORIA’S CHARLEY THE ELEPHANT PREPARES FOR NEW BEGINNING

OFFICIAL MEDIA RELEASE: PRETORIA’S CHARLEY THE ELEPHANT PREPARES FOR NEW BEGINNING Pretoria’s Charley the Elephant Prepares for A New Beginning [Tshwane, Pretoria: 29 July 2024]: The South African government agreed to pursue options for the retirement of African Elephant Charley from the National Zoological Garden in Pretoria to a suitable wildlife sanctuary or similar setting.   On […]

26 Jul

COMMENTS ON DRAFT NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT: BIODIVERSITY BILL 2024

COMMENTS ON DRAFT NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT: BIODIVERSITY BILL 2024 The comments are submitted jointly by the EMS Foundation and by the Wild Law Institute We strongly support the enactment of the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Bill (“the Bill”) but believe that the Bill requires strengthening in several important respects in order to enable it to […]

9 Jul

WE REACH OUT OUR HANDS IN FRIENDSHIP AND DIGNITY

WE REACH OUR HANDS IN FRIENDSHIP AND DIGNITY We reach out our hands in friendship and dignity, treating all people with respect, compassion and empathy, supporting their independence and acknowledging their unique needs, preferences and characteristics.  The EMS Foundation assists the schools we support through holistic interventions for sustainable futures. One such action is the […]

8 Jul

REBECCA MOSIMA -HUMANS WHO GROW FOOD

REBECCA MOSIMA -HUMANS WHO GROW FOOD Gender-responsive agroecology that benefits women small-scale producers, supports food security and protects biodiversity and ecosystems is fundamental to the provision of vegetables and cruelty free food at the schools the EMS Foundation supports. Mrs Rebecca Mosima lovingly tends the EMS Foundation sponsored growzone at the EA Davidson Primary School in […]

31 May

LETTER OF DEMAND: USE OF INHUMANE BABOON MANAGEMENT METHODS IN PRINGLE BAY

LETTER OF DEMAND: USE OF INHUMANE BABOON MANAGEMENT METHODS IN PRINGLE BAY Cullinan and Associates, lawyers acting for the EMS Foundation, sent an urgent letter of demand to the Overstrand Municipality on the 31s May 2024. The EMS Foundation formally objected to the Overstrand Municipality’s Baboon Management Plan for Pringle Bay, which was published by […]

14 May

MR SILOS MOSIMA HUMANS WHO GROW FOOD

MR SILOS MOSIMA HUMANS WHO GROW FOOD E.A. Davidson is a public primary school located on 24 Rivers Farm in the Vaalwater district of the Limpopo Province, South Africa. In 2020 the EMS Foundation initiated a food security programme called a Growzone at this site. The programme is enormously successful and provides the children, and the broader […]

2 May

LETTER OF OBJECTION RE OVERSTRAND MUNICIPALITY IDP AND BABOON MANAGEMENT PLANS 2024

LETTER OF OBJECTION RE OVERSTRAND MUNICIPALITY IDP AND BABOON MANAGEMENT PLANS 2024 Objection to the Overstrand Municipality Baboon Management Plan for Pringle Bay Announced at Ward Meeting Held on Monday 29th April 2024 The EMS Foundation NPO is a South African social justice NGO with the primary purpose of alleviating and ending suffering, raising public […]

16 Apr

COMMENTS ON THE REVIEWED SOUTH AFRICAN NATIONAL BIODIVERSITY ECONOMY STRATEGY

THE EMS FOUNDATION AND THE BIODIVERSITY LAW CENTRE COMMENT ON THE REVIEWED SOUTH AFRICAN NATIONAL BIODIVERSITY ECONOMY STRATEGY This comment is submitted by the BLC and EMS Foundation in response to the draft National Biodiversity Economy Strategy published under Government Notice 4492 in Government Gazette 50279 of 8 March 2024 (NBES). We hope that our comments will […]

4 Apr

COMMENT ON THE PROPOSED NON-DETRIMENT FINDINGS FOR CERTAIN SOUTH AFRICAN SPECIES LISTED IN TERMS OF CITES

COMMENT ON THE PROPOSED NON-DETRIMENT FINDINGS FOR CERTAIN SOUTH AFRICAN SPECIES LISTED IN TERMS OF CITES Unsustainable use of biodiversity and anthropogenic-induced change in biotic communities represent major threats to species globally. In political and public discourse, the term “unsustainable trade” is frequently conflated with “illegal trade.” However, the absence of standards, procedures, proper oversight and […]

27 Feb

SOUTH AFRICA’S RHINO HORN STOCKPILES INTRINSIC TO ILLEGAL TRADE

Rather than banking on the extinction of rhinos, South Africa must embrace rhino horn stockpile destruction as an anti-poaching, anti-trafficking, and demand reduction tool to meaningfully contribute to the ethical protection of rhino populations in Africa and Asia and to mitigate their extinction. Doing so will send a strong signal that South Africa is firmly committed to preserving and protecting rhinos, and to truly ensuring their welfare and well-being. By virtue of the precautionary approach, South Africa, and other CITES States Parties must act in the best interest of the conservation of the species and urgently uplist rhinos currently on Appendix II to Appendix I.

19 Feb

COMMENTS ON THE PROPOSED REGULATIONS RELATING TO THE ENTRY OF FOREIGN FISHING VESSELS INTO SOUTH AFRICAN WATERS

COMMENTS ON THE PROPOSED REGULATIONS RELATING TO THE ENTRY OF FOREIGN FISHING VESSELS INTO SOUTH AFRICAN WATERS The EMS Foundation submitted comments on the proposed regulations relating to the entry of foreign fishing vessels into South African waters on the 18th February 2024. Download and read the full commentary on the proposals: It is indeed […]

18 Jan

MYTHS OF TROPHY HUNTING DEBUNKED

MYTHS OF TROPHY HUNTING DEBUNKED Every year, tens of thousands of wild animals worldwide are killed by trophy hunters with the aim of acquiring body parts of target animals as trophies for example full body mounts, tusks, horns or skins. Rarer species are typically more expensive to shoot. Trophy hunters even target endangered and strictly […]

8 Jan

UNDER SIEGE RHINOCEROSES IN SOUTH AFRICA

UNDER SIEGE RHINOCEROSES IN SOUTH AFRICA In 2009 Michele Pickover from Animal Rights Africa, published a special Report titled Under Siege Rhinoceros in South Africa, at the time, in response to a Parliamentary question by the Democratic Alliance on the 7th August 2009, the Minister of Water and Environmental Affairs said that the current estimated […]

12 Dec

WHO ARE THE MONSTERS? THE ILL ADVISED ATTEMPT TO CREATE FEAR AND LOATHING IN THE VILLAGE OF PRINGLE BAY

WHO ARE THE MONSTERS? THE ILL ADVISED ATTEMPT TO CREATE FEAR AND LOATHING IN THE VILLAGE OF PRINGLE BAY A Written Response to a Document Published by a Pringle Bay Resident on Facebook  DOWNLOAD TO READ THE DOCUMENT PUBLISHED ON SOCIAL MEDIA: THE OFFICIAL RESPONSE FROM THE EMS FOUNDATION: Introduction The primary purpose of Not […]

25 Nov

The Future is Bright EMS Foundation Hands Over a NEW Building for the Boxers of the Overstrand Whale Boxing Club

On Saturday 25th of November 2023 Elizabeth Steyn the patron of the EMS Foundation officially handed over a new building to the boxers of Overstrand Whale Boxing Club at the opening event held in Hermanus in the Western Cape of South Africa. Almost exactly a year in November 2022 the final plans were discussed in Hermanus, the architects who share the responsibility for the design of the building are Nicola du Pisanie from Stonewood Design in the United Kingdom and Simon Pfotenhauer from Stage 5 Architects in South Africa. In March 2023 Elizabeth Steyn returned to Hermanus to break ground on the proposed site at the Hermanus Waldorf School with Mzi Damesi, the founder and head coach of the Overstrand Whale Boxing Club. On the 28th of March 2023 the heavy duty equipment arrived on site to begin excavation in order to start laying the foundations and the construction of the new OWBC commenced.

21 Nov

COMMENTS ON THE DRAFT TOPS REGULATIONS AND TOPS LISTINGS THE PROPOSED AMENDMENTS IN 2023

COMMENTS ON THE DRAFT TOPS REGULATIONS AND TOPS LISTINGS THE PROPOSED AMENDMENTS IN 2023 “For the reasons set out above, our client is disappointed that the Draft Regulations remain firmly within an anthropocentric “sustainable use” paradigm. Our client strongly objects to the fact that the hunting of TOPS is still permitted in the Draft Regulations as is […]

17 Nov

COMMENTS ON THE DRAFT POLICY POSITION OF THE CONSERVATION AND SUSTAINABLE USE OF ELEPHANT, LION, LEOPARD AND RHINOCEROS

COMMENTS ON THE DRAFT POLICY POSITION OF THE CONSERVATION AND SUSTAINABLE USE OF ELEPHANT, LION, LEOPARD AND RHINOCEROS 17 November 2023 The EMS Foundation and the Wild Law Institute delivered their submission to the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 2. While we acknowledge the merits of many policy interventions, we wish […]

19 Oct

SOCIETY HAS A MORAL OBLIGATION TO ADDRESS THE ONGOING CRUELTY SHOWN TOWARDS BABOON FAMILIES IN PRINGLE BAY, SOUTH AFRICA

The world is on the tipping point of climate catastrophe.  The Western Cape is particularly susceptible to climate shocks and the ever-worsening climate crisis.  It is crucial, therefore, that the primary role of conservation must be to ensure that the ecological systems and processes which are essential to life in all its forms and to sustaining and enhancing the wellbeing of humans and other forms of life, are respected, protected and where necessary, restored. 

19 Oct

PERPETUATING THE ENDLESS CYCLE OF CRUELTY AGAINST BABOONS IN THE OVERSTRAND

PERPETUATING THE ENDLESS CYCLE OF CRUELTY AGAINST BABOONS IN THE OVERSTRAND A 30 Day Study of Incidents in Pringle Bay During September and October 2023

3 Oct

EMS FOUNDATION COMMENTS ON THE WESTERN CAPE ANNUAL SPORT HUNTING NOTICE FOR 2024

Cullinan and Associates, lawyers acting on behalf of the EMS Foundation, by invitation, provided inputs and comments on Cape Nature's Annual Hunting Notice 2024. In summary, the EMS Foundation objects to the procedure Cape Nature follows in publishing annual Hunting Notices on the following grounds: CapeNature as the trustee of biological diversity in the Western Cape bears the onus of establishing scientifically that the hunting of each of the species listed in the annual Hunting Notice in the numbers specified is justified from a conservation perspective. The onus should not be on the public to motivate why the contents of the Notice are not not scientifically justified;

29 Sep

PROHIBITING CERTAIN ACTIVITIES INVOLVING AFRICAN LION: IMPORTANT UPDATE FOR SOUTH AFRICA’S CAPTIVE LION INDUSTRY

PROHIBITING CERTAIN ACTIVITIES INVOLVING AFRICAN LION: IMPORTANT UPDATE FOR SOUTH AFRICA'S CAPTIVE LION INDUSTRY The EMS Foundation is pleased that the Minister and the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment are finally initiating concrete steps against this distasteful industry. We thank them for it and encourage them to do more.

28 Sep

Video of the Shooting of Baboon with a Catapult in Pringle Bay Recorded in Accordance with the Overstrand Municipality Published Baboon Hotline Directive

The Overstrand Municpality recommends that videos and images are taken of incidents where baboons are harmed, and that all the relevant additional information provided to the Overstrand Municipality will be passed onto Cape Nature to investigate.

20 Sep

TOWARDS FREEDOM THE SANBI EXPRESSION OF INTEREST NZG15052023/1

The EMS Foundation and Shambala have generously offered to fund the expertise required to guide and prepare Charlie for his evacuation from the National Zoo in Pretoria. They are on standby to begin the process of building him a state of the art release and rehabilitation boma. He will receive the best possible care and expert support for the remainder of his natural life. They are immensely grateful to all the many experts who have committed their expertise and experience to assisting Charlie.

15 Sep

OVERSTRAND MUNICIPALITY CHOOSES TO RELY UPON BIASED, INACCURATE AND UNSCIENTIFIC INFORMATION

Presently the Overstrand Municipality, unconstitutionally and stubbornly refuses to meet with representatives from the Pringle Bay or Betty's Bay community or the volunteers and civil society entities who are working altruistically and tirelessly to assist this villages. Instead, the Overstrand Municipality has chosen to rely upon outdated questionable data from HWS and the few residents who want baboons eradicated from the conservancy. Due to the enormous amount of money that was spent on the services of Human Wildlife Solutions baboon management in the Overstrand Municipality, the EMS Foundation has taken the firm position that an independent oversight authority needs to be consulted one with an independent legal mandate to investigate the merits of the call for a 106 forensic investigation.

30 Aug

URGENT: CORRESPONDENCE REGARDING EXPORT OF CHEETAH TO INDIA

URGENT: CORRESPONDENCE REGARDING EXPORT OF CHEETAH TO INDIA On the 30th of August 2023, Michele Pickover, the executive director of the EMS Foundation sent an urgent communication to Minister Barbara Creecy. Image Credit: Brian Abrahamson ©EMS Foundation 2023. All Rights Reserved.

29 Aug

EMS FOUNDATION LETTER TO CHAIRPERSON OF THE MINISTERIAL TASK TEAM FOR THE CAPTIVE LION INDUSTRY IN SOUTH AFRICA

EMS FOUNDATION LETTER TO CHAIRPERSON OF THE MINISTERIAL TASK TEAM FOR THE CAPTIVE LION INDUSTRY IN SOUTH AFRICA ON THE 29TH AUGUST 2023 The content of the communication highlights the significant importance and the implications of the changes to NEM:BA. These implications include the fact that "wellbeing" now falls within the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment and Minister Barbara Creecy's legal mandate. Furthermore, as a result of these changes to NEM:BA, it is, in the opinion of the legal opinion obtained by the EMS Foundation, competent for the Honourable Minister to institute some immediate actions.

29 Aug

PRINGLE BAY BABOON MANAGEMENT AN URGENT REQUEST FOR PUBLIC CONSULTATION

According to the content of the letter addressed to the Mayor and Municipal Manager of the Overstrand Municipality Cullinan and Associates are of the opinion that the decision making process with regard to baboon management in the Overstrand Municipality needs to be more transparent and must allow for interested and affected parties to put forward their points of view. Furthermore, it is urgently requested that the Overstrand Municipality arranges an open meeting for all residents in order that an agreed upon, open and transparent process for baboon management decision making can be established.

29 Aug

CLOSING OF THE CAPTIVE LION BREEDING INDUSTRY AND THE PROVISION OF A BASIC FRAMEWORK FOR THE RESOLUTION OF ISSUES RELATING TO THE COMMERCIAL CAPTIVE BREEDING OF LION AND OTHER BIG CATS

THE EMS FOUNDATION PROVIDES A CONSIDERED OPINION FOR THE CLOSING OF THE CAPTIVE LION BREEDING INDUSTRY AND THE PROVISION OF A BASIC FRAMEWORK FOR THE RESOLUTION OF ISSUES RELATING TO THE COMMERCIAL CAPTIVE BREEDING OF LION AND OTHER BIG CATS

26 Aug

URGENT LEGAL OBJECTION TO THE OVERSTRAND MUNICIPALITY THREAT OF THE FORCED REMOVAL OF BLUE TAG BABOON FROM PRINGLE BAY

URGENT LEGAL OBJECTION TO THE OVERSTRAND MUNICIPALITY THREAT OF THE FORCED REMOVAL OF BLUE TAG BABOON FROM PRINGLE BAY On Saturday 26th of August 2023 the EMS Foundation was forced to instruct Cullinan and Associates to issue an urgent letter to Mr Dean o’ Neill, the Municipal Manager of the Overstrand Municipality in response to […]

10 Aug

WORLD LION DAY 2023

WORLD LION DAY 2023 EXPORT OF 10 LIVE LIONS FROM SOUTH AFRICA TO THE LAO PEOPLE’S DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC This is the tenth anniversary of World Lion Day which is celebrated on the 10th of August every year. It is a day dedicated to the global raising of awareness for the declining population of the big […]

1 Aug

THE NEED TO CREATE COST EFFECTIVE HARMONIOUS HUMAN-BABOON COEXISTENCE IN THE OVERSTRAND

THE NEED TO CREATE COST EFFECTIVE HARMONIOUS HUMAN-BABOON COEXISTENCE IN THE OVERSTRAND On the 27th of July 2023, Mayor Rabie on behalf of the Overstrand Municipality published an announcement stating that the issue of the four problem male baboons in Pringle Bay has been discussed with Minister Bredell on the 15th of May 2023 and that Minister Bredell has undertaken the […]

30 Jul

LET’S PICK UP THE PIECES AND START AGAIN THE MONKEY HELPLINE REHABILITATION AND SANCTUARY CENTRE

The EMS Foundation has provided a substantial contribution for the procurement of land in KwaZulu Natal which will provide Monkey Helpline primate sanctuary with longevity the security that they require.  Steve Smit started Monkey Helpline in 1995, he has successfully lobbied Ezemvelo Wildlife KZN, to adopt a management policy for all captive primates in KwaZulu Natal. Habitat destruction and modification has negatively effect on all primates in South Africa, humans have annexed territories that primates inhabited for many generations.  Steve Smith and Carol Booth are continuing to raise funds to rebuild the Monkey Helpline Primate Rehabilitation and Sanctuary Centre.

29 Jul

“BE FIRST” THE OVERSTRAND WHALE BOXERS HAVE EVERY REASON TO BE EXCITED FOR THE FUTURE

The OWBC will host an international invitational tournament in Hermanus at the new boxing club which is being built on the grounds of the Hermanus Waldorf School, in Sandbaai in Hermanus in November 2023. The event will showcase the remarkable raw talent and nurture the developing skills of the boxers. The boxers hope to captivate sports enthusiasts and impress everyone who attends.

25 Jul

REQUEST FOR AN INDEPENDENT INVESTIGATION INTO TENDERS AWARDED BY THE OVERSTRAND MUNICIPALITY

Mayor Rabie in her response written within on the same day, to the EMS Foundation letter of concern, alluded to the fact that a full S106 investigation into the awarding of the baboon management tenders was done by the Office of the MEC for Local Government in early 2021. This information was not provided to the EMS Foundation by the municipality in any response to our PAIA requests.

20 Jul

RISE AND DINE WORKING TOGETHER TO END CHILDHOOD HUNGER

The EMS Foundation took the decision to enter into an agreement with the Lunchbox Fund in May 2023.  The Lunch-Box Fund was founded by South African born, Topaz Page-Green in 2005. The non-profit organisation fosters education through nutrition in townships and rural areas of South Africa.  The Lunch-Box Fund and the EMS Foundation share the same philosophy of providing breakfast and lunch to vulnerable and food insecure children in South Africa.  The provision of these encourages the children to attend school and the benefit of the nutritious meals encourages the children to concentrate and learn.

18 Jul

TOWARDS FREEDOM ELEPHANT CHARLIE’S RETIREMENT AND EVACUATION FROM THE NATIONAL ZOOLOGICAL GARDENS IN PRETORIA

The EMS Foundation and Shambala Private Game Reserve have offered to relieve SANBI, the South African government and the hard pressed South African tax payer from any further financial obligation towards Charlie’s care. Charlie has been offered the very best possible chance at rehabilitation, to live in a natural protected system and the opportunity of meeting, living and integrating with other elephants, some of whom have been successfully rewilded from a captive situation, if he so chooses.

2 Jul

COMMENTS ON THE DRAFT SHARK BIODIVERSITY PLAN

The EMS Foundation continues to encourage the South African government that a shift is required to restore living interconnected systems that create a stable climate, a shift that is of the utmost importance for the well-being of humans and all life on the planet. Forced habit change, over harvesting, species introductions and cascading effects are the current trends that fail to prevent extensive anthropogenic biodiversity loss. Sharks, rays and chimeras are part of an estimated one million species that currently face extinction.

19 Jun

COMMENTS ON SANPARKS REVISED DRAFT ON THE TOKAI AND CECILIA MANAGEMENT FRAMEWORK

The EMS Foundation provided comments on the 19th of June 2023, the revised draft of the SANParks plan for the management of the Tokai and Cecilia areas will determine how SANParks and its "stakeholders" will manage these sensitive areas over the next five years. The area is described as a complex and contested space and finding a solution that is holistic and inclusive is complicated. The EMS Foundation concern for the ancestral residents of the Table Mountain National Park, the Chacma baboon, is highlighted throughout the submission.

16 Jun

ONE STEP AT A TIME

The Trustees and Management of the EMS Foundation and Shambala Private Game Reserve believe that every child in South Africa has the right to food and education. No child should be prevented from learning because they are hungry.

30 May

CONCERN AND REQUEST FOR TRANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY WITH REGARD TO THE OVERSTRAND STRATEGIC BABOON MANAGEMENT PLAN AND ITS IMPLEMENTATION

CONCERN AND REQUEST FOR TRANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY WITH REGARD TO THE OVERSTRAND STRATEGIC BABOON MANAGEMENT PLAN AND ITS IMPLEMENTATION

11 May

EMS FOUNDATION AND THE CLIMATE JUSTICE CHARTER MOVEMENT APPEAL THE ENVIRONMENTAL AUTHORISATION PROVIDED TO TEEPSA FOR THE EXPLORATION WELL DRILLING IN BLOCKS 5/6/7 ON THE SOUTH WEST COAST OF SOUTH AFRICA

EMS FOUNDATION AND THE CLIMATE JUSTICE CHARTER MOVEMENT APPEAL THE ENVIRONMENTAL AUTHORISATION TO TEEPSA FOR THE EXPLORATION WELL DRILLING IN BLOCKS 5/6/7 SOUTH WEST COAST OF SOUTH AFRICA

11 May

EMS FOUNDATION COMMENTS ON THE DRAFT MARINE SECTOR PLAN

The National Development Plan South Africa’s socio-economic development blueprint to create a better life for all citizens in an inclusive society. Operation Phakisa was launched in 2014 to help implement the National Development Plan. An initiative to address issues such as poverty, unemployment, and inequality. Operation Phakisa enjoys presidential status as a project launched by and housed within the Presidency of the Republic of South Africa during the Zuma administration. Phakisa is a most ambitious project which includes a prominent maritime component. The use of oceans in the pursuit of political, economic, and social agendas reflects a history only second that of land. Such use unfortunately entails a destructive side.

8 May

EMS FOUNDATION ADDITIONAL INPUT TO CITES SECRETARIAT FOLLOWING CITES TIGER MEETING WITH STAKEHOLDERS IN SOUTH AFRICA

EMS FOUNDATION ADDITIONAL INPUT TO CITES SECRETARIAT FOLLOWING CITES TIGER MEETING WITH STAKEHOLDERS IN SOUTH AFRICA “The EMS Foundation notes with concern the current welfare violations and health and wellbeing implications for tigers (and other big cats) held in captivity in South Africa as well as the obvious safety concerns for humans and the unacceptable […]

19 Apr

SOUTH AFRICAN LION BONE TRADE

On the 21st of August 2018 Executive Director of the EMS Foundation, Michele Pickover and Director of Ban Animal Trading, Dr Smaragda Louw jointly presented the outcome of their eighteen month investigation into South Africa's role in the international lion bone trade at the Colloquium on Captive Lion Breeding for Hunting and the Lion Bone Trade.

13 Apr

PETITION TO LIST THE LONG-TAILED MACAQUE AND SOUTHERN PIG-TAILED MACAQUE UNDER THE ENDANGERED SPECIES ACT

In our ongoing quest for the protection of primate species around the world, the EMS Foundation proudly supported the detailed scientifically orientated petitions drawn up by Dr Lisa Jones Engel from the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals organisation, also known as PETA, which were delivered to the Secretary of the Interior and the Director of the US Fish and Wildlife Service yesterday.

31 Mar

CAPE PENINSULA BABOON STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT PLAN

The EMS Foundation is a member of the Wildlife Animal Protection Forum of South Africa, we have submitted comprehensive comments on the Draft Cape Peninsula Baboon Strategic Management Plan. We request a moratorium on the killing of baboons while this plan is being amended.

21 Mar

BREAKING GROUND THE NEW HOME OF THE OVERSTRAND WHALE BOXING CLUB

The EMS Foundation broke ground at the Hermanus Waldorf School on the 18th of March 2023 for the construction new premises of the Overstrand Whale Boxing Club. Coach and Founder of the well known club, which has produced national champions, is delighted as are the many boxers who attend the club.

21 Mar

A SENSE OF COMMUNITY

The EMS Foundation and Shambala Private Game Reserve proudly attended the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at the Leseding Community Hall in Vaalwater in Limpopo Province. Both organisations were intricately involved in the refurbishment of the community hall which will provide a much needed space for the surrounding community members.

10 Mar

WHERE ARE THE NAMIBIAN ELEPHANTS?

The EMS Foundation was reliably informed that wild caught Namibian elephants, part of a commercial transaction were transported from a temporary holding facility in Gobabis in Namibia loaded onto a Fly Pro Moldovan Cargo charter flight and flown to the UAE in March 2022. Some of these elephants were sold to Al Ain Zoo but have never been seen since.

8 Mar

THE RECLASSIFICATION OF WILD ANIMALS AS FARMED ANIMALS SUCCESSFULLY CHALLENGED IN THE HIGH COURT OF SOUTH AFRICA

The South African Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development reclassified several wild animal species in 2016 and 2019 which allowed for the "breeding, identification and utilisation of genetically superior animals" effectively managing these species as livestock. The Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT) successfully challenged the decision made by DALRRD to include 33 wild mammal species in the AIA in the North Gauteng High Court.

6 Mar

CHARLIE EXPERT BEHAVIOURAL AND MEDICAL ASSESSMENTS COMPLETED

The Members of the Pro Elephant Network (PREN) and the EMS Foundation have submitted Expert Assessment Reports of Charlie, the solitary Elephant at the National Zoological Gardens in Pretoria, to the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Barbara Creecy.

3 Mar

THE DECISION TO DRIVE THE BABOON TROOP OUT OF PRINGLE BAY

Cullinan and Associates, environmental lawyers acting on behalf of the EMS Foundation have sent an urgent letter to the Overstrand Municipality, the Baboon Management Joint Task Team, Cape Nature Overberg and Human Wildlife Solutions with regard to their decision to move the baboon troops from Pringle Bay

23 Feb

OUR KIN DISCARDED SOUTH AFRICA’S CRUEL AND GRATUITOUS TRADE AND KILLING OF NON HUMAN PRIMATES

The fourth instalment of the Extinction Business series of Reports focuses on South Africa's inhumane, unsustainable and discreditable trade in non-humane primates and their body parts. Researched, written and published by the EMS Foundation and Ban Animal Trading.

21 Feb

OUR KIN DISCARDED, SOUTH AFRICA’S CRUEL AND GRATUITOUS TRADE AND KILLING OF (NONHUMAN) PRIMATES

Part Four of the Extinction Business series of investigations and reports published by the EMS Foundation and Ban Animal Trading South Africa

16 Feb

CONCERN ABOUT THE SOUTH AFRICAN CHEETAH RELOCATION TO INDIA PROJECT

On the 16th of February 2023 environmental lawyers, Cullinan and Associates, acting on behalf of the EMS Foundation sent an urgent communication to the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Barbara Creecy. The communication raised concern about the proposed project to remove one hundred and twenty wild cheetah over a ten year period from South Africa and export them to India. The first twelve cheetah are destined to leave South Africa tomorrow, on Friday 17th of February 2023.

24 Jan

33 ORGANISATIONS EXPRESS CONCERN ABOUT THE ROLE OF THE EUROPEAN UNION AT CITES CoP19 HELD IN NOVEMBER 2022

EMS Foundation joins thirty-two organisations who have expressed concern about the role of the European Union at CITES CoP19 held in November 2022 in Panama City, Panama.

20 Jan

ASIAN BIG CATS IN CAPTIVITY IN SOUTH AFRICA

Tigers are listed as CITES Appendix 1 animals and are highly endangered. The trade in these animals is regulated and overseen by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment. DFFE has systematically over a number of years completely disregarded pleas from the NGO sector to close down this captive breeding facilities because of public safety concerns and the booming illegal tiger bone trade.

17 Jan

SUBMISSION TO THE UNITED STATES FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICES ON THE PROPOSED REVISION TO THE RULE FOR THE AFRICAN ELEPHANT

We are grateful to the US Fish and Wildlife Service for the opportunity to submit comments to the proposed revision of the rule for the African elephant promulgated under section 4(d) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as headed to increase the protection for African elephants.

17 Jan

AN AFRICAN PERSPECTIVE ON THE NEGATIVE IMPACTS OF THE COLONIAL STYLED COMMERCIALISATION OF ENDANGERED WILDLIFE SPECIES ADVERTISED AT THE JAGD UND HUND EUROPES LARGEST HUNTING FAIR IN DORTMUND, GERMANY

The EMS Foundation signed an open letter written to the Mayor of Dortmund by the Wildlife Animal Protection Forum South Africa which has also signed by members of the Pro Elephant Network and endorsed by a number of wildlife conservationists, wildlife veterinarians, politicians and lawyers from around the world.

24 Dec

REQUEST TO SUSPEND THE DECISION TO REMOVE MALE BABOONS FROM THE PRINGLE BAY TROOP

Environmental lawyers Cullinan and Associates, acting on behalf of the EMS Foundation have, today issued an urgent communication which is addressed to the Executive Mayor of the Overstrand Municipality, representatives of the Baboon Management Joint Task Team, Cape Nature and Human Wildlife Solutions.

16 Dec

A BOXER FROM THE OVERSTRAND WHALE BOXING CLUB SMASHES THE GLASS CEILING

The EMS Foundation sponsorship of the Overstrand Whale Boxing Club included the team's attendance at the annual National Boxing Championships held in December 2022. This year the event was held in Durban in KwaZulu Natal. The EMS Foundation extended the invitation to include and assist boxers from Khayelitsha in Cape Town. OWBC boxers brought six medals back to the Western Cape, these included three gold medals, two silver medals and one bronze medal.

7 Dec

COMMENTS ON THE DRAFT EIA REPORT FOR TOTAL ENERGIES – ESIA FOR PROPOSED EXPLORATION IN BLOCK 5/6/7 OFF THE SOUTH WEST COAST OF SOUTH AFRICA

On the 7th of December 2022 comments were submitted by Cullinan and Associates, environmental lawyers acting on behalf and by special instruction of the EMS Foundation to SLR Consulting South Africa.

7 Dec

COMMENTS ON THE DRAFT EIA REPORT FOR TotalEnergies – ESIA FOR PROPOSED EXPLORATION IN BLOCK 5/6/7 OFF THE SOUTH WEST COAST OF SOUTH AFRICA

ON THE 7th of DECEMBER 2022 COMMENTS WERE SUBMITTED BY CULLINAN AND ASSOCIATES ON BEHALF AND SPECIAL INSTRUCTION OF THE EMS FOUNDATION TO SLR CONSULTING SOUTH AFRICA EXCERPT FROM THE SUBMISSION: “27. Our client’s submissions and comments on the draft ESIA, in summary, are that the Competent Authority should find that: 27.1.  the Public Participation Process […]

23 Nov

COMMENT – DRAFT AMENDMENTS TO SOUTH AFRICAN MEAT SAFETY ACT

"Our client does not support the development of the game meat industry, which we assume this amendment seeks to facilitate. Our client has recently submitted to the Department of the Environment, Forestry and Fisheries a comprehensive comment on the Draft Meat Strategy for South Africa. The essence of our client's objection to the Draft Strategy is that the development of a game meat industry has serious risks and direct negative ramifications for public health, biodiversity, ecological restoration and animal well-being. The intensive breeding for commercial purposes of any wild fauna should be prohibited, not promoted."

11 Nov

COMMENT ON REVISED DRAFT WHITE PAPER ON THE CONSERVATION AND SUSTAINABLE USE OF SOUTH AFRICA’S BIODIVERSITY

The EMS Foundation and the Wild Law Institute submitted joint comments on the Revised Draft White Paper on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of South Africa's Biodiversity on the 11th November 2022.

8 Nov

EMPOWERING THE COMMUNITY IN HERMANUS IN THE WESTERN CAPE OF SOUTH AFRICA

On the 8th of November 2022, the EMS Foundation officially opened the Hermanus Waldorf High School which currently consists of three classroom and associated facilities. The EMS Foundation generously donated these buildings to the Hermanus Waldorf School to serve the communities of Hermanus and Zwelihle.

8 Nov

BUILDING CLASSROOMS AND UNLOCKING THE POTENTIAL THAT TRANSFORMS THE LIVES OF INDIVIDUALS

Given the right tools children will be able to find and achieve their personal greatness which will then, in turn, lead them to help others. In 2022, the EMS Foundation continued its mandate to enrich the lives of the less fortunate communities in South Africa. The EMS Foundation aligns itself with community leaders who are […]

12 Sep

OVERSTRAND WHALE BOXING CLUB CONTINUED TO PUNCH THEIR WAY TO SUCCESS IN 2022

The EMS Foundation is a proud supporter and the main benefactor of the Overstrand Whale Boxing Club, which is currently located in Zwelihle in Hermanus, a seaside village situated in the Western Cape Province of South Africa.We reflect on what seems to be another monumental year in the making as the boxers of the OWBC continue to receive many accolades.

12 Sep

OWBC CONTINUED HUNGER FOR ACHIEVING EXCELLENCE IN 2022

A TEAM FROM THE OVERSTRAND WHALE BOXING CLUB IS VOTED THE SECOND BEST IN THE PROVINCE The EMS Foundation is a proud supporter and the main benefactor of the Overstrand Whale Boxing Club, which is currently located in Zwelihle in Hermanus, a seaside village situated in the Western Cape Province of South Africa.   We reflect […]

10 Sep

COMMENTS ON DRAFT WHITE PAPER ON THE CONSERVATION AND SUSTAINABLE USE OF SOUTH AFRICA’S BIODIVERSITY

THE EMS FOUNDATION AND THE WILD LAW INSTITUTE JOINTLY SUBMITTED COMMENTS IN RESPONSE TO THE INVITATION TO COMMENT ON THE DRAFT WHITE PAPER ON THE CONSERVATION AND SUSTAINABLE USE OF SOUTH AFRICA'S BIODIVERSITY

26 Aug

COMMENTS ON DRAFT SOUTH AFRICAN ‘GAME’ MEAT STRATEGY

The EMS Foundation is a South African social justice NGO. Our key purpose is to alleviate and end suffering, raise public awareness, empower, provide dignity and promote the interests of vulnerable groups, including wild animals. The EMSF also has a special interest in biodiversity. We support the five interrelated principles of social justice, namely: equity, access, diversity, participation and rights.

26 Aug

NOMINATIONS FOR A MINISTERIAL LION TASK TEAM

On the 21st and 22nd of August 2018 a colloquium titled Captive Lion Breeding for Hunting in South Africa: Harmful or Promoting the Conservation Image of the Country was held in the Good Hope Chamber in Parliament in Cape Town. The Deputy Minister of Communication and Digital Technologies of the People's Assembly, Mr Mohlopi Philemon Mapulane, acted as Chairperson of the colloquium. Michele Pickover, the Executive Director of the EMS Foundation and Dr Smaragda Louw, the Director and Chairperson of Ban Animal Trading presented a synopsis of the Extinction Business Report that the Colloquium.

21 Aug

COMMENTS ON THE DRAFT AFRICAN PENGUIN BIODIVERSITY MANAGEMENT PLAN

the research has indicated that penguins who undergo rehabilitation have a very low reproductive rate so, although we appreciate the care for individual animals that are rescued, rehabilitated and released, increasing rehabilitation capacity will not improve the conservation of the species. Scientists have indicated that this species of penguin could be functionally extinct by 2035.

29 Jul

SANBI ANNOUNCES THE DECISION TO RETIRE CHARLIE THE ELEPHANT FROM THE PRETORIA NATIONAL ZOOLOGICAL GARDEN

the-pretoria-national-zoological-garden/ The EMS Foundation commends the ground breaking and forward thinking decision reached by SANBI and Minister Barbara Creecy with regard to Charlie. We will continue to offer our unwavering support as we continue our nineteen month transparent process with SANBI to establish the best possible future for Charlie with the support of the elephants experts from the Pro Elephant Network.

7 Jul

EVERYDAY NEEDS TO BE NELSON MANDELA DAY

THE EMS FOUNDATION AND SHAMBALA PRIVATE GAME RESERVE'S ROADMAP TO EMPOWERING CHILDREN IN LIMPOPO PROVINCE IN SOUTH AFRICA

6 Jul

JOINT STATEMENT OF 137 ORGANISATIONS POSITION ON TROPHY HUNTING

THE EMS FOUNDATION OPPOSES TROPHY HUNTING AND THE ASSOCIATED TRADE IN TROPHIES AND ASSERTS THAT “KILLING TO CONSERVE” IS NEITHER AN ETHICAL NOR A SUBSTANTIAL APPROACH TO WILDLIFE CONSERVATION.

6 Jul

JOINT POSITION ON TROPHY HUNTING

THE EMS FOUNDATION OPPOSES TROPHY HUNTING AND THE ASSOCIATED TRADE IN TROPHIES AND ASSERTS THAT “KILLING TO CONSERVE” IS NEITHER AN ETHICAL NOR A SUBSTANTIAL APPROACH TO WILDLIFE CONSERVATION.

5 Jul

EMS FOUNDATION COMMENTS ON TEEPSA BLOCK 567 SCOPING REPORT

Environmental lawyers, Cullinan and Associates, provided general overarching comments on the Draft Scoping TEEPSA Block 567 Report which should be considered during the preparation of the ESIA on behalf of the EMS Foundation.

20 Jun

COURT APPROACHED TO RELEASE THREE ELEPHANTS FROM THE JOHANNESBURG ZOO

On Monday 20th June 2022, an application to the High Court of South Africa in the Gauteng Division, Pretoria, was lodged to release three Elephants known as Lammie, Mopane and Ramadiba from the Johannesburg Zoo. These Elephants are currently being held in conditions unsuited to their basic needs.

20 Jun

EMS FOUNDATION TOWARDS FREEDOM PROJECT

On Monday 20th June 2022 an application to the High Court of South Africa in the Gauteng Division, Pretoria, was lodged to release three Elephants known as Lammie, Mopane and Ramadiba from the Johannesburg Zoo. The application is brought by Animal Law Reform South Africa (ALRSA), the EMS Foundation and Chief Stephen Fritz, represented by environmental law firm, Cullinan and Associates, against the Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ), and other governmental respondents involved with the Zoo.

18 Jun

COMMERCIAL ZOOS – LOCKING UP CITES THE POTENTIAL TO BAN THE COMMERCIAL TRADE IN CRITICALLY ENDANGERED SPECIES

The intention of CITES has always been to ensure that the trade in endangered species is tightly regulated, including a requirement that critically endangered species cannot be traded for commercial purposes. Despite this clear intention, commercial trade in critically endangered animas continue by simply eternising purées code Z (which applies to zoos), rather than purpose code T (which applies to commercial transactions).

16 Jun

ENVIRONMENTAL AUTHORISATION APPLICATION TO UNDERTAKE EXPLORATION WELL DRILLING IN AN OFFSHORE AREA BETWEEN CAPE TOWN AND CAPE AGULHAS

Well-functioning terrestrial and marine ecosystems are crucial for regulating the climate. These systems currently absorb roughly half of all human created carbon emissions. positive role of megafauna such as whales in climate change resilience is the subject of peer reviewed studies. 

3 Jun

Investing in Childhood Education in the Limpopo Province of South Africa

The EMS Foundation has empowered schools that are performing well, schools who have inspirational headmasters and headmistresses, the schools who are creating communities of learning where the power of education as a tool to change lives is recognised. 

3 Jun

INVESTING IN EDUCATION IN SOUTH AFRICA

The EMS Foundation recognises the fact that there are many talented young people who can achieve world-class results if given the correct opportunities.  The foundation has discovered that there are schools in the regions in South Africa where the organisation is actively working are offering quality education, these deserving institutions are receiving our support. 

1 Jun

THE IMPACTS ON LEVELS OF ILLEGAL KILLING OF ELEPHANTS SINCE THE CLOSURE OF CHINA’S DOMESTIC TRADE IN IVORY

The problem of stockpiling ivory remains. The disjunct between online ivory sales data and seizure data had indicated that organised criminal groups were likely stockpiling ivory for various reasons. We suspect that this was because they were ‘banking on extinction’ - literally funding poaching to create private ivory stockpiles, which they could then drip feed to the market once elephants had become extinct, or a legal trade reignited (or both). Domestic ivory bans should therefore be indefinite and complete. Unfortunately, if range states keep talking about selling their ivory, the incentive for stockpiling remains.

27 May

COMMENTS ON THE SOUTH AFRICAN CLIMATE CHANGE BILL

In this document we propose various amendments to the Bill and explain why they are necessary. Annex A contains the current version of the Bill which we have marked-up to show the amendments that should be made in order to give effect to the proposals in this document. We have done so in order to facilitate the finalisation of the Bill.

26 May

COMMENTS ON THE BIODIVERSITY OFF-SET GUIDELINE

The concept of biodiversity offsetting does not recognise the right of the individual components of ecosystems to exist and of ecosystems to remain intact and functioning. The Guideline is silent on how the welfare of individual animals is to be protected when a decision is made to authorise the destruction of a habitat, based on offsetting.

25 May

HUNTING FOR ANSWERS

The EMS Foundation sent in extensive written proposals to the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment. However, subsequent to doing this - via a Promotion of Access to Information Act (PAIA) response from the department to the EMS Foundation - we have discovered that there may be procedural unfairness and possible bias in this stakeholder process as South Africa’s position may have already been decided and this consultation may likely therefore be merely a ‘box-ticking ’exercise, particularly since South Africa’s proposals need to be sent to CITES by 17 June 2022.

25 May

EMS PROPOSALS TO DFFE FOR CONSIDERATION FOR CITES CoP19 2022

We are in the midst of an extinction crisis that could unravel life as we know it. Wildlife exploitation is the leading driver of marine species loss and the secondary driver of terrestrial species loss.

22 Apr

THE EMS FOUNDATION ASSISTS THE FLOOD VICTIMS IN KWA ZULU NATAL, SOUTH AFRICA

Since its inception, the EMS Foundation, has taken up the call to improve and uplift the lives of vulnerable South Africans and create a caring and truly sustainable future for all. As a social justice organisation, we cannot ignore the fact that more than four hundred people have lost their lives in the recent floods in KwaZulu Natal. Significant damage has been caused to an aging infrastructure, including the water and electricity supply, roads and bridges have been washed away, damage has been caused to schools and health facilities.

7 Apr

CHARLIE THE ELEPHANT HELD IN CAPTIVITY IN THE NATIONAL ZOOLOGICAL GARDENS

This statement details the timeline of the critical engagement process initiated by members of the Pro Elephant Network (PREN) and representatives of the EMS Foundation with Barbara Creecy, Minister of Forestry Fisheries and the Environment in South Africa. 

1 Apr

SNATCHED FROM THE WILD – CURATING AFRICAN ELEPHANTS FOR LIVE EXHIBITIONS IN THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

The full history of the contentious trade deal involving wild elephants caught in Namibia and exported to the United Arab Emirates into a life of captivity is well documented in the previously published Report by the EMS Foundation.

26 Mar

DEVELOPING WELFARE PARAMETERS FOR AFRICAN ELEPHANTS IN FENCED RESERVES IN SOUTH AFRICA

South Africa has many fenced reserves harbouring small to medium populations of African elephants most of whom have been translocated. Elephants on fenced reserves may be exposed to various management interventions and practices such as translocations, hunting, darting, high tourism impact, contraception programs and disruption due to infrastructure maintenance.

15 Mar

NAMIBIA’S LIVE TRADE IN AFRICAN ELEPHANTS CAPTURED FROM THE WILD

Based on the body of overwhelming scientific evidence, South Africa took the commendable decision in 2008 to ban the capture of elephants from the wild for the purposes of captivity and trade under the terms of the National Norms and Standards for the Management of Elephants in South Africa (2008). The International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Species Survival Commission African Elephant Specialist Group opposes the removal of African elephants from the wild for any captive use. This position was reaffirmed at the group’s meeting in Pretoria, South Africa in July 2019.

15 Mar

NAMIBIA’S LIVE TRADE IN AFRICAN ELEPHANTS CAPTURED FROM THE WILD

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5 Mar

NAMIBIAN WILD ELEPHANTS SENT INTO CAPTIVITY IN THE UAE: THE CITES TREATY – A PAPER TIGER AND AN ACTIVE ENABLER OF CRUELTY

A Legal Opinion obtained by the EMS Foundation, found that it would not be lawful for the Namibia CITES Management Authority to issue an export permit under either Appendix I or Appendix II of CITES, nor for a country outside of the range states for Loxodonta Africana to issue an import permit, particularly because Appendix II does not apply to the export and the available evidence indicates that exporting the Namibian wild caught elephants to an ex situ programme cannot meet the requirements of Article III for trade in Appendix I species, particularly the non-detriment criterion.

13 Feb

THE EMS FOUNDATION URGES THE NAMIBIAN GOVERNMENT TO COME CLEAN ABOUT THE CAPTURE, ISOLATION AND SALE OF WILD ELEPHANTS

The EMS Foundation obtained a Legal Opinion which stated that it would not be lawful for the Namibian CITES Management Authority to issue an export permit under either Appendix I or Appendix II of CITES and that, similarly, it would not be lawful for a country outside of the range states for Loxodonta Africana to issue an import permit. 

8 Feb

INSPIRING GREATNESS

The EMS Foundation is launching an extensive project in 2022 which will empower the children and the youth living in Zwelihle in Hermanus, a seaside town situated south-east of Cape Town in South Africa.

27 Dec

ARCHBISHOP DESMOND TUTU

The EMS Foundation Pays Tribute to Archbishop Desmond Tutu - An Unwavering Voice of the Voiceless and a Messenger for Compassion, Courage, Hope and Justice

24 Dec

BURNLEY FC AND THE EMS FOUNDATION INSPIRING GREATNESS WITH THE OVERSTRAND WHALE BOXING CLUB IN HERMANUS

The next generation of humans is learning life-skills in the most turbulent of times, if nurtured correctly they will be the masters of change and resilience. We all underestimate the power we have within us to turn a life around.  The EMS Foundation seeks to promote the welfare of others and recognises the importance of investing time and sharing expertise with young people.

22 Dec

WHERE HAVE ALL THE RHINOS GONE?

WHERE HAVE ALL THE RHINOS GONE? The EMS Foundation has produced a Retrospective Research Report, a compilation of, and expansion on, the work previously carried out by researchers and investigative journalists over the past two decades. On the 22nd of September 2021−World Rhino Day−the acting head of South African National Parks, Dr Luthando Dziba, said that there […]

20 Dec

WHERE HAVE ALL THE RHINO GONE REPORT

Where Have All the Rhino Gone, is a compilation of, and expansion on, the work previously carried out by researchers and investigative journalists over the past two decades. The Information contained in this retrospective report sets out to illustrate the questionable decisions that have been made over the past two decades regarding the protection and conservation of South Africa’s rhino.

14 Dec

AN INADEQUATE AND DISAPPOINTING OFFICIAL RESPONSE TO THE BREAKING POINT REPORT

The EMS Foundation and Ban Animal Trading, authors of the investigative report called the Breaking Point Report: Uncovering South Africa's Shameful Live Wildlife Trade with China, the second in the Extinction Business series, have expressed their disappointment at the inadequate official response from the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment in an open communication.

2 Dec

DINOKENG GAME RESERVE PLANS TO KILL A MATRIARCH

THE EMS FOUNDATION INFORMATION STATEMENT BACKGROUND Dinokeng Game Reserve is a 21000 hectare wildlife reserve in the Gauteng province, South Africa. It was officially opened on the 22nd September 2011 by the Gauteng Provincial Government to promote ecotourism and job creation involving more than 170 landowners. The government owns 4000 hectares of the reserve.  Dinokeng is situated one hour from […]

26 Nov

CONTROVERSIAL SEISMIC OIL AND GAS SURVEYANCE IN SOUTH AFRICA

Operation Phakisa focused on unlocking the economic potentials of South African oceans.  Offshore oil and gas extraction was one of the four areas where this potential was identified. President Jacob Zuma said that the ocean around the southern tip of Africa could contribute around a million jobs via shipbuilding and mineral resource extraction by 2033. 

17 Nov

SHAMBALA PRIVATE GAME RESERVE AND THE EMS FOUNDATION FARM TO TABLE

Shambala Private Game Reserve and the EMS Foundation have established highly productive and organic food gardens at three local schools that are situated in the same district as Shambala. The schools are Boschdraai Primary School in Vaalwater, EA Davidson Primary School in Vaalwater and Moshia Secondary School in Alma. A fourth school, in Leseding in Limpopo will be added in 2022. 

15 Nov

LEOPARD TROPHY EXPORTS AND RE-EXPORTS FROM SOUTH AFRICA

Official information obtained by the EMS Foundation from the South African Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment via the Promotion of Access to Information Act (PAIA) pertaining to leopard exports from one South African port of exit revealed starling information about leopard trophy hunting exports and re-exports in South Africa.

11 Nov

EXTINCTION BUSINESS REPORT USED IN EVIDENCE IN HIGH COURT OF SOUTH AFRICA

The EMS Foundation and Ban Animal Trading gathered extensive information whilst investigating South Africa's big cat industry and South Africa's Lion Bone Trade which resulted in the first Extinction Business series of reports. The evidence in this report was used, amongst other, in a South African High Court matter.

11 Nov

THE NINETEEN YEAR REUNION: SAFARI CLUB INTERNATIONAL AND THE GRATUITOUS INFLUENCE ON AFRICA’S TROPHY HUNTING POLICIES

Research shows that trophy hunting is not an effective tool for conservation in Africa - the trophy hunting industry is rife with mismanagement and corruption, harmful to animal populations, is grounded in in colonial systems that have marginalized, and continue to marginalize local African populations.  This comprehensive research combines the knowledge of anthropology, ecology, economics, ethology, history, indigenous studies, literature studies and political science. 

9 Nov

EMS FOUNDATION COMMENTARY ON THE PROPOSED 2021 ELEPHANT TUSK HUNTING QUOTA

In the Draft Quota itself the proposed quota for elephant is set out in a single sentence: “The annual elephant export quota for 2021 is maintained at 300 tusks from 150 animals.” It does not set any criteria for how or from which animals the proposed tusks should be harvested. As with leopard and rhino, there is absolutely no reason given for setting the quota at this level for 2021. It is therefore virtually impossible to make any meaningful comment on the proposal.

9 Nov

EMS FOUNDATION COMMENTARY ON THE PROPOSED 2021 BLACK RHINO HUNTING QUOTA

The African Black Rhino remains Critically Endangered according to the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, and there is no room for complacency. There is an urgent need for them to be protected not killed. It is counter intuitive therefore, to suggest a hunting quota for black rhino in South Africa especially while private rhino owners and the government are seeking ways to lobby for funds locally and abroad in order to protect the last remaining South African black rhino.

9 Nov

EMS FOUNDATION COMMENTARY ON THE PROPOSED 2021 LEOPARD HUNTING QUOTA

The Draft NDF was never finalized. At the Leopard Workshop, the DFFE indicated that at the time of the publishing of the Draft NDF, there was no reliable estimate for the South African leopard population, and thus this required this NDF to be revised because it is outdated. Plans to revise the Draft NDF are allegedly underway.

9 Nov

EMS FOUNDATION COMMENTS ON THE PROPOSED LEOPARD, BLACK RHINO AND ELEPHANT TROPHY HUNTING QUOTAS FOR THE 2021 CALENDAR YEAR

The EMS Foundation has provided comment on the proposed hunting and export quota for elephant, black rhinoceros and leopard for the 2021 calendar year which was published for public consultation in terms of section 99 and 100 of the National Environment Management: Biodiversity Act, Act 10 of 2004 (NEMBA) and sub regulation3 (2)(k) of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) Regulations, 2010.

20 Oct

THESE SHOES ARE MADE FOR WALKING, EMS FOUNDATION AND SHAMBALA PRIVATE GAME RESERVE INITIATIVE

In September 2021, the EMS Foundation and the Shambala Private Reserve donated 600 pairs of shoes to children in the Vaalwater district of Limpopo. Through our partnership we are committed to an on-going support of the children in that area.

15 Oct

SHAMBALA AND EMS TUTUDESK CAMPAIGN IN LIMPOPO

“There comes a point where we need to stop just pulling people out of the river.  We need to go upstream and find out why they are falling in.” Desmond Tutu

21 Sep

WORLD RHINO DAY 2021

In addition, the EMS Foundation’s retrospective report Where Have All the Rhino Gone includes familiar names of people involved in the game breeding industry, ex policemen and veterinarians who have been arrested and charged with wildlife crimes over the past two decades.  This information demonstrates that the illegal killing of rhino in South Africa for their horn has not only been carried out by anonymous individuals. 

31 Aug

THE EMS FOUNDATION GIVES RED CARD TO FAITH MUTHAMBI’S APPOINTMENT

Broadly speaking, the mandate of the committee is to consider and process any legislation referred to it; exercise oversight over the Department and entities reporting to it; consider international agreements referred to it; consider the budget vote of the Department and its entities; facilitate public participation on its processes; and to consider all other matters referred to it in terms of legislation and the Rules of Parliament. 

12 Aug

WORLD ELEPHANT DAY 2021

Elephants Killed for Trophies in the Kruger National Park System, South Africa The EMS Foundation has confirmed, via an access to information request to the Limpopo government (LEDET), that in 2020 four male elephants were killed for trophies in an open system with the Kruger National Park – the Balule Reserve. In addition, in 2020, […]

10 Aug

WORLD LION DAY 2021

Focusing Exclusively on Lion Trophy Hunting The exploitation of wild animals has been identified as one of the dominant drivers of biodiversity loss, emergence of zoonotic infectious disease, animal suffering, and financial instability.  Lion populations have dropped by more than 40% in the past two decades. There are approximately 20000 wild lions in Africa, with only 3000 in South […]

10 Aug

RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH WILDLIFE BREEDING AND AGRICULTURALIZATION OF WILD ANIMALS

Tuesday 10th August 2021  A NEW STUDY FINDS THAT A MINORITY OF ANIMALS HOST THE MAJORITY OF ZOONOTIC VIRUSES The EMS Foundation remains concerned about the devastating the negative effects of the COVID-19 global pandemic; and the growing risk of new pandemics which can be scientifically linked to the trade and consumption of wild animals. […]

2 Aug

REMEMBERING SKYE – THE LEADER OF THE WESTERN PRIDE OF LIONS IN THE KRUGER NATIONAL PARK

“Trophy Hunting is a form of selective elimination of the strongest members of a pride, based on whatever distinction has been accepted in the hunting fraternity.”  DAVID MABUNDA The Umbabat Nature Reserve is a privately owned nature reserve situated adjacent to the Kruger National Park on the bank of the Nhlaralumi River in the Bushbuckridge […]

28 Jul

EMS FOUNDATION AND WILD LAW INSTITUTE STATEMENT ON THE SUBMISSION TO DFFE

MEDIA STATEMENT: A BRIEF OVERVIEW OF THE SUBMISSION TO DFFE REGARDING THEIR POLICY POSITION ON THE CONSERVATION AND ECOLOGICALLY SUSTAINABLE USE OF ELEPHANT, LION, LEOPARD AND RHINOCEROS South Africa 28TH JULY 2021 The EMS Foundation and the Wild Law Institute, both NPOs, jointly submitted written comments to Minister Barbara Creecy’s (GN 566 published in Government […]

28 Jul

EMS FOUNDATION AND WILD LAW INSTITUTE COMMENTS ON DFFE DRAFT POLICY POSITION 28TH JULY 2021

THE CONSERVATION AND ECOLOGICALLY SUSTAINABLE USE OF ELEPHANT, LION, LEOPARD AND RHINOCERO Please read the full submission: Concluding Comments of the EMS Foundation and Wild Law Institute DFFE Submission: Humanity has overstepped the planetary boundary in respect of biological diversity and consequently has entered a “danger zone” where it will be negatively affected by sudden events […]

24 Jul

GUIDELINE FOR COMMENTS ON DFFE DRAFT POLICY POSITION

Upon request, the EMS Foundation has provided useful information for interested individuals who want to get involved with the important decision making processes which concern us all in South Africa.

19 Jul

A HOLISTIC FRAMEWORK TO RESOLVE HUMAN AND WILDLIFE ISSUES IN THE CAPTIVE BIG CAT SECTOR

The EMS Foundation commends the Honourable Minister for her commitment to ending inhumane and irresponsible practices in the wildlife industry which greatly harm the reputation of South Africa and to ending the captive lion industry so that South Africa does not captive breed lions, keep lions in captivity, or use captive lions or their derivatives commercially.

15 Jul

TRADING IN MISERY SOUTH AFRICA’S RECENT LION EXPORTS

The EMS Foundation has obtained official information from the South African Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment via the Promotion of Access to Information Act also known as PAIA about lion exports from the Oliver Tambo International's Airport situated in Johannesburg, South Africa. The detailed and specific information contained in this document illustrates the magnitude of this South African industry over a very specific time frame.

6 Jul

SOUTH AFRICAN LION BREEDERS EXPORT LION CUB PETTING INDUSTRY TO IRAQ

Exporters and importers of wild animals circumvent CITES regulations and the South African government can no longer simply defer to CITES with regard to its export of wild animals. Despite the acknowledgement by political leaders, and a high level panel of experts, of the importance of reputation for future conservation success, nonetheless the international damage to South Africa’s reputation is allowed to continue unabated.

6 Jun

CONFIRMATION OF THE SCALE OF THE CAPTIVE WILDLIFE INDUSTRY IN SOUTH AFRICA

The EMS Foundation, with partner organisations, was instrumental in demanding new policies for, amongst other, the captive-bred big cat industry and therefore should be involved in the new policy process for all categories of their submissions from the onset. The EMS Foundation co-authored and published a 204 page submission, with Animal Law Reform South Africa. This submission was presented to the High-Level Panel of Advisors to DFFE on the 15th June 2020.

21 May

TROPHY HUNTING OF LEOPARDS IN SOUTH AFRICA

Exquisitely beautiful and elusive, leopards unsurprisingly form part of South Africa’s so-called iconic ‘Big Five’, yet their current conservation status is a population in persistent decline[1] and, alarmingly, they are extinct in 67% of South Africa

9 May

THE CAPTIVE LION INDUSTRY – WHAT TO DO NEXT?

The EMS Foundation has been actively lobbying government on this issue since its inception in 2014. On the 27th of March 2020, the High-Level Panel of Experts, publicly requested written submissions to be made in respect of the management, breeding, hunting, trade, handling and related matters of elephant, lion, leopard, and rhino. On the 15th June 2020 the EMS Foundation and Animal Law Reform South Africa made a submission to the panel of experts, as did sixty-nine other organizations and individuals.  

3 May

GUIDELINES FOR THE TRANSPORTATION OF LIVE ANIMALS BY SEA

The EMS Foundation, represented by Environmental lawyers Cullinan and Associates, submitted comments on the Draft Guidelines for the Transportation of Live Animals by Sea to the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development in South Africa on the 30th April 2021.

3 May

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE US FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE CoP19 RESOLUTION CONSIDERATIONS

The World Health Organisation, the World Organisation for Animal Health and the United Nations Environment Programme have recently made an unprecedented call to governments and national authorities asking them "to suspend the trade in live caught wild animal of mammalian species for food or breeding purposes and to close sections of food markets selling live caught wild animals species as an emergency measure."

22 Apr

EARTH DAY 2021 HOW MANY ASIAN TIGERS ARE IN CAPTIVITY IN SOUTH AFRICA

On several occasions since early 2016 we had been asking your Department (DFFE) if it knew the number of Asian tigers in South Africa and if they monitor and audit the facilities in South Africa that keep Asian Big Cats. They continuously and consistently replied that they do not have any information as tigers are ‘exotics’ and therefore not their responsibility. This despite the fact that they are CITES Appendix I animals.

15 Apr

GLOBAL EMERGENCY RESPONSE MEASURES COVID_19 GLOBAL PANDEMIC

In light of the continued devastating effects of the global pandemic, COVID-19, and in order to reduce public health risks associated with the sale of live wild animals for food in live and traditional food markets, the World Health Organisation (WHO), the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) and the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) have issued a document, “food safety and Covid-19 guidance on actions that national governments should urgently adopt in order to make traditional markets safer and to recognize their central role in providing food and livelihoods for large populations”.

12 Apr

CONCERN FOR THE ANIMALS AT THE NATIONAL ZOOLOGICAL GARDENS

On Sunday 11th of April 2021, the EMS Foundation received messages, and was repeatedly tagged on various social media platforms, from concerned South African citizens about the conditions at the National Zoological Gardens in Pretoria (NZG)

23 Mar

THE SOUTH AFRICAN CLIMATE JUSTICE CHARTER

The EMS Foundation is extremely concerned by the fact that it is clearly not safe to exercise our fundamental human rights in defence of our environment in South Africa.  Furthermore, we are devastated to learn that no arrests have been made in either of these assassinations.

2 Feb

DENIAL AND WHITEWASHING IS PUSHING THE RHINO SPECIES TO EXTINCTION

Minister Barbara Creecy stated: "While the extraordinary circumstances surrounding the battle to beat the COVID_19 pandemic contributed in part to the decrease in rhino poaching in 2020, the role of rangers and security personnel who remained at their posts, and the additional steps taken by the government to effectively deal with these and related offences, also played a significant role."

18 Jan

Kataza Can Stay in the Cape Province, Has This Been Considered?

For the record, the EMS Foundation is not in agreement with the baboon management protocols which include paintballing, firing bare bangers, the inappropriate relocation, permanent captivity of male baboons or the killing of baboons. “On average for management purposes, we kill about seven baboons a year – habitual raiders - it is a danger to the public to have them in urban areas” -Julia Wood, Biodiversity manager for the City of Cape Town. Cape Town ratepayers have been paying fourteen million rand a year for the services of a baboon management company.

15 Jan

KATAZA

According to their own statement, on the 12th of January 2021, the Cape of Good Hope SPCA submitted an application to CapeNature for a permit to capture, transport and relocate Kataza/SK11 from the Western Cape to Limpopo. Receipt of such application was not confirmed to the EMS Foundation on the same day by Dr Ernst Baard, Executive Director of Conservations Operations, CapeNature.

17 Dec

BUA NOI

Zoos cannot provide the amount of space gorillas have in the wild, gorillas roam for large distances.  Zoos do not provide natural habitats and this is particularly true of the Paka Zoo in Bangkok.  The well-being of gorillas is dependent on their environment, Bau Noi lives in unnatural surroundings on her own this could mean that she might have developed physical health problems or anxiety, depression and even psychosis.  Bau Noi was captured from the wild, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on torture in 2011 concluded that solitary confinement for humans beyond fifteen days constituted cruel and inhumane punishment.

3 Nov

CLEAR AS MUD – The Official Response to Questions Relating to Trophy Hunting in the Associated Private Nature Reserves, the Greater Kruger National Park

On the 6th August 2020 the EMS Foundation wrote an open letter to the Minister of the Environment, Forestry and Fisheries Barbara Creecy, the CEO of SanParks Fundisile Mketeni, the Minister of Tourism Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane and SH Makhubele the CEO of LEDET with regard to our concerns relating to the elephant hunt that took place in the Balule Nature Reserve an associated Private Nature Reserve which joins the Kruger National Park on the 5th December 2019. To date we have not received a response to this letter.

1 Nov

The EMS Foundation and Animal Law Reform South Africa – Answers to the DEFF High Level Panel Written Questions

The EMS Foundation and Animal Law Reform South Africa made a formal written submission to the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment High Level Panel on 15 June 2020, a virtual presentation at the public consultation held by the HLP on 6 October 2020 and answered questions orally.

30 Oct

The Ill Treatment of Kataza (SK11) is the Tipping Point for the Need to Reconfigure the Protection of Chacma Baboons and their Natural Habitat in the Western Cape of South Africa

Over and above the destruction and fragmentation of their habitat, and despite being listed as a CITES Appendix II threatened species, baboons are offered very little protection in the Western Cape. Baboons are shot and poisoned, illegally captured and traded, hunted and used by traditional healers for medicinal purposes. In addition, they are also vulnerable to such hazards as power lines pylons, veld fires and road accidents.  

30 Sep

DECEASED, A HUMPBACK WHALE, ANOTHER VICTIM OF FISHING EQUIPMENT ENTANGLEMENT SOUTH AFRICA

Dr Hofmeyer also reported a further two incidents in his interview with SABC News. “On the same day that the whale came ashore we also found on the beach a White-chinned Petrel, a type of sea bird, also entangled in fishing gut, and a dolphin washed ashore with a series of parallel cuts on its back which could only have been caused by a vessel propeller. Three animals have been killed here, directly because of human behaviour.”

7 Sep

WHALE ENTANGLEMENTS AN URGENT REQUEST FOR IMMEDIATE MORATORIUM ON THE USE OF NON-MOVABLE FISHING DEVICES

The EMS Foundation hereby submits a formal request for an immediate moratorium on the use of non-movable fishing devices, which include, but are not limited to, crayfish traps. We are extremely concerned by the documented accounts of whale fatalities in South African water which are a result of these devices.

28 Aug

PUNCH YOUR WAY TO SUCCESS AT THE OVERSTRAND WHALE BOXING CLUB

The founder of OWBC, Mzi Damesi, has an insatiable passion for boxing. He coaches children who live in Zwelihle at the club, which is housed in shipping containers. This club is not only is the training ground for aspiring young boxers it is also a place of refuge. Mzi Damesi's club keeps the children off the streets and out of harm's way. The club has become a safe haven for many children.

27 Aug

A Rainbow in Someone Else’s Cloud

"Education is the great engine of personal development. It is through education that the daughter of a peasant can become a doctor, that the son of mineworker can become the head of the mine, that a child of farm workers can become the President" Nelson Mandela

10 Aug

PLUNDERED SOUTH AFRICA’S COLDBLOODED INTERNATIONAL REPTILE TRADE

Plundered, South Africa’s cold-blooded international reptile trade, is the third investigative report in The Extinction Business Series. The two previous reports examined South Africa’s lion bone trade and South Africa’s live wildlife trade with China. The Reports focus on how loopholes and ineffectual controls in the permit system, which includes CITES, are enabling international laundering and smuggling of live wildlife. The same applies to the global trade in live reptiles and amphibians, the focus of the Plundered Report.

10 Aug

THE EXTINCTION BUSINESS SPECIAL REPORT:

PLUNDERED South Africa's Coldblooded International Reptile Trade INVESTIGATIVE REPORT RESEARCHED AND WRITTEN BY THE EMS FOUNDATION AND BAN ANIMAL TRADING

7 Aug

CALL TO THE G20 TO SUPPORT A BAN ON THE INTERNATIONAL WILDLIFE TRADE AND AN IMMEDIATE PERMANENT CLOSURE OF WILD ANIMAL MARKETS

We, the EMS Foundation and the World Animal Protection - Africa, with the endorsement of the undersigned African organisations, request President Cyril Ramaphosa―as a member of the G20 and as Chairman of the African Union―to support a G20 ban on international wildlife trade and an immediate and permanent closure of wild animal markets.

5 Aug

UNETHICAL TROPHY HUNTING OF ELEPHANT IN THE GREATER KRUGER NATIONAL PARK

On Monday 3rd August 2020, the Daily Mail newspaper with a readership of over 2.3 million people in the United Kingdom published an article with images and a video which were supplied by the organisation called People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA). The article is about a Californian trophy hunter called Aaron Raby who, on 5th December 2019, killed an elephant in the Balule Nature Reserve in the Associated Private Nature Reserves (APNR) which adjoins the Kruger National Park in South Africa.

27 Jul

RITA MILJO, REMEMBERING THE FEARLESS HEROINE OF BABOONS IN SOUTH AFRICA

n 2002 Nelson Mandela was with her for a release of troop of baboons at Shambala Wildlife Reserve in Limpopo in South Africa. The image above is from that special time, with grateful thanks to the management of C.A.R.E.

18 Jul

EMS FOUNDATION CELEBRATES MANDELA DAY 2020

In honour of Nelson Mandela, the founder of the EMS Foundation, Elizabeth Steyn has delighted the smallest children in the care of the Non-Government Organisation called Where Rainbows Meet with warm jackets, hoodies and shoes.

30 Jun

PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO THE MEAT SAFETY ACT

We, Animal Law Reform South Africa and the EMS Foundation, welcome the opportunity to provide our comments and hereby do so in relation to the Proposed Amendments to the Meat Safety Act gazetted for public consultation on the 28th February 2020 (“Proposed Amendments”).

16 Jun

SUBMISSION IN RESPECT OF DEFF HIGH LEVEL PANEL THE EMS FOUNDATION AND ANIMAL LAW REFORM SOUTH AFRICA

Please note that this Submission is non-exhaustive and does not represent all the responses to the issues and matters raised herein. We reserve the right to provide any further or additional information on aspects raised herein.

8 Jun

EMS FOUNDATION AND BAN ANIMAL TRADING BREAKING POINT REPORT MEMORANDUM TO MINISTER CREECY

On the 21st of May 2020 Minister Barbara Creecy publicly responded to the EMS Foundation and Ban Animal Trading Report on the legal wildlife trade between China and South Africa. The EMS Foundation and the Ban Animal Trading organisation have drafted a memorandum regarding the measures that should be taken in response to the aforementioned report.

1 Jun

THE DEMOCRATIC ALLIANCE FULFILLING IT’S ROLE AS A CREDIBLE ALTERNATIVE TO THE RULING GOVERNMENT

The EMS Foundation published a report called the Extinction Business in 2018. The report highlighted a two year investigation into South Africa’s Big Cat Captive Breeding Industry which included the concise details of South Africa’s controversial Lion Bone Export business. The publication of this report led to a two-day colloquium held in Parliament in 2018. The Parliamentary Committee recommended that this industry be shut down immediately. Minister Creecy has ignored this recommendation. Judge Kollapen rule in August 2019, in the Gauteng High Court, that the lion bone export quota is unlawful and constitutionally invalid.

22 May

THE BREAKING POINT REPORT – PRESS RELEASE 22ND MAY 2020

The Minister of Environment, Barbara Creecy, initiated a meeting with the EMS Foundation and Ban Animal Trading in response to the publication of The Breaking Point Report which highlighted the shameful live wildlife trade between South Africa and China. The meeting was held this morning. We welcome the Minister’s commitment to investigate the serious issues raised in our Report, within a three month period.

18 May

EXPOSED: ILLEGAL WILDLIFE TRADE BOOMING THANKS TO LEGAL WILDLIFE TRADE

An investigation by EMS Foundation (EMS) and Ban Animal Trading (BAT) culminated in a report confirming the connection between illegal and legal wildlife trade. The report, BREAKING POINT: Uncovering South Africa’s Shameful Live Wildlife Trade with China, details the illegal and questionable trade of thousands of live animals under the pretense of legal trade.

17 May

THE BREAKING POINT – UNCOVERING SOUTH AFRICA’S SHAMEFUL LIVE WILDLIFE TRADE WITH CHINA

South Africa has become the largest exporter of live wild animals to Asia, where many wild animals are killed to extract potions from their carcases and are eaten as delicacies. Some are sent to languish in atrocious zoos. Some are inserted into the murky world of the illegal wildlife trade. The reality is that the South African government fails to apply its strong regulatory powers and by design or neglect allows strikingly large numbers of animals to be exported.

17 May

THE EXTINCTION BUSINESS SPECIAL REPORT:

THE EXTINCTION BUSINESS INVESTIGATIVE REPORTS PART TWO: BREAKING POINT - UNCOVERING SOUTH AFRICA'S SHAMEFUL LIVE WILDLIFE TRADE WITH CHINA RESEARCHED AND WRITTEN BY THE EMS FOUNDATION AND BAN ANIMAL TRADING South Africa

14 May

WILDLIFE ANIMAL PROTECTION FORUM SOUTH AFRICA SUBMISSION TO THE CHINESE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND RURAL AFFAIRS

Captive wildlife industries in China have experienced unprecedented growth in recent decades. The members of the Wildlife Animal Protection Forum South Africa, in their invited submission to the Chinese government, has chosen to focus on four such industries.

5 May

DISTRACTIONS ASIDE, CONSERVATION NEEDS RADICAL CHANGE

The realities are uncomfortable. We cannot continue to allow wildlife trade because of the potential public health risks and because it contributes to the degradation of nature. And those who will be most negatively impacted by a degraded planet are the very same impoverished communities that wildlife trade proponents seek to benefit.

30 Apr

THUMA MIA, I AM HERE, SEND ME, Inspiring Us to Serve

A life-saving food delivery from Pick n Pay purchased by the Trustees of the EMS Foundation and Shambala Private Game Reserve for redistribution in the community of Vaalwater, in the Limpopo Province of South Africa.

29 Apr

WHO STANDS TO BENEFIT, IF THE WILDLIFE TRADE CONTINUES?

An open letter released by the Lion Coalition called on the World Health Organisation (WHO) to “release a formal position statement containing clear advice to governments to institute comprehensive and rigorously enforced bans on live wildlife markets and to close down the commercial wildlife trade which poses a risk to public health.

27 Apr

“Sometimes it Falls Upon a Generation to be Great” Nelson Mandela

Freedom Day is a public or Bank Holiday in South Africa and commemorates the first democratic post-apartheid non-racial elections that were held on April 27th 1994, which saw Nelson Mandela elected as President. The EMS Foundation assisted three hundred families with food security in Ocean View in celebration of Freedom Day 2020.

13 Apr

NOW IS THE TIME TO BAN THE WILDLIFE TRADE

The current public health crisis is forcing global leaders to reflect on what went wrong and what can be done to prevent future pandemics. Evidence suggests wildlife trade is responsible for the COVID-19 outbreak. But the question remains, what is the best path forward?

8 Apr

Building Relationships in the Vaalwater Community, Bridging the Trust Gap

n the image is the headmaster of the Moshia Secondary School, situated in the Alma a village in the Vaalwater district of Limpopo, Mr Setu, with the Trustee of the EMS Foundation and Shambala Private Game Reserve Mr Rajan Desraj, the Executive Director of the EMS Foundation, Michele Pickover, Patron of the EMS Foundation Mrs Elizabeth Steyn and Mayor Marlene van Staden with the local South African Police Station Commander. The image was taken at the celebration of the refurbishment of the Moshia Secondary School in 2020.

4 Apr

I CHOOSE TO BE HERE – THE ART OF GIVING DURING THE GLOBAL COVID_19 PANDEMIC

The EMS Foundation's key purpose is to alleviate and end suffering, and provide dignity to the most vulnerable groups of people in South Africa. In keeping with our purpose we made the decision to assist the community leaders that we have aligned ourselves with. Food security for their people has become a priority to these community leaders

27 Mar

LOVE AND THE ART OF GIVING DURING THE TIME OF THE COVID_19 GLOBAL PANDEMIC

"A fundamental concern for others in our individual and community lives would go a long way in making the world the better place we so passionately dreamt of" Nelson Mandela

25 Mar

A LOOMING CRISIS – THE CAPTIVE BIG CAT INDUSTRY, COVID_19 AND GOVERNMENT CULPABILITY

Since at least as far back as the late 1990s, various NGOs have warned your department about the harmful and negative effects of breeding lions (and other big cats) in captivity. Yet, the South African government has done nothing to slow the growth of the captive lion breeding industry, nor has it given any indication of wanting to do so. This letter lays bare the facts and calls for immediate action. First, it details the risks embedded in captive lion (and other big cat) breeding and why the industry should be terminated.

21 Mar

The South African Captive Bred Lion Industry and Associated Global Health Risks

As a consequence of the extensive evidence presented against the captive big-cat breeding industry and its abhorrent offshoots such as canned hunting and the unregulated lion bone trade, Parliament instructed the Minister of Environmental Affairs (at the time) and her Department – in December 2019 – to shut down the industry, which is a major ethical, legal and administrative embarrassment for South Africa. 

18 Mar

The EMS Foundation Formally Requests Further Public Consultation on the DEFF Threatened or Protected Species Amended Regulations and Lists

Substantial amendments have been made both to the TOPS Regulations and the List; and five years have elapsed since the last public consultation on the proposed amendments; and that a further consultation with the public is therefore required by law prior to implementation of the proposed amendments.

26 Feb

WILDLIFE ORGANISATIONS UNITE TO RESPECT AND SECURE THE WILDLIFE AT THE SANWILD WILDLIFE SANCTUARY IN SOUTH AFRICA

An offer has been presented to the trustees of the SanWild Wildlife Trust which translates into an enormous investment. The offer has been made with the best interests of the wild animals at SanWild at heart, as well as that of the legacy of the SanWild Trust. The offer has been made despite SanWild’s complicated history, the lack of public trust and support, and the on-going and immense problems that it is facing.  

23 Feb

THE MOSHIA SECONDARY SCHOOL PROJECT 2020 “Inspiring Greatness”

A team from Shambala and two parents of pupils at the school set to work to begin the transformation process. The project was funded by Shambala Private Game Reserve and the EMS Foundation. The management team from Shambala and two parents of pupils at the school carried out all the hard work and managed the project.

6 Feb

THE EMS FOUNDATION BID TO SAVE ELEPHANTS FROM HUNT IN BOTSWANA

Please read our request to the Director of Wildlife and National Parks in Botswana for a revision of the qualifying criteria to enable us to bid on the hunting packages on the 7th February 2020 with the express intention that the elephants in these packages are not hunted should our bids be successful.

31 Jan

THE INTERNATIONAL UNION FOR THE CONSERVATION OF NATURE PAPER DOES NOT PROVE THE BENEFITS OF TROPHY HUNTING

The EMS Foundation has analysed the IUCN document, which is typically hauled out by proponents of trophy hunting or referred to by governments who have become reluctant to ban trophy hunting imports. The analysis serves primarily to inform the British government's deliberations over whether to ban trophy imports (and what kind of ban would be appropriate). More broadly, it exposes holes in the paper's arguments and brings other evidence to bear that suggests it has not been sufficiently rigorous in its appraisal of the conservation benefits of trophy hunting. In a nutshell, it provides a contrary view to conventional wisdom in conservation circles and suggests that alternatives to trophy hunting are feasible and socio-ecologically preferable in the long run.

21 Jan

The EMS Foundation and UK DEFRA CONSULTATION – TROPHY HUNTING POLICY BRIEFING

These animals are part of the country's national heritage but are permitted to be shot by foreign trophy hunters for the benefit of a small number of wealthy white landowners. Tellingly, governance breaches in the APNR abound. How much money actually accrues to the local communities remains unknown due to a lack of transparency in the industry."

30 Nov

WHALE COAST CONSERVATION

Comment on the Proposed Overstrand Municipality Amendment By-Law on Municipal Land Use Planning 2019 and Associated Documents

28 Nov

The Long Tentacles of Safari Club International (SCI) Undermining Conservation Efforts in Africa

It is time to put an end to the narrative that poor rural African communities unequivocally support trophy hunting. It is also time to put an end to the idea that trophy hunting can somehow be well governed in corrupt contexts. The practice is self-evidently repugnant, and the willingness of some scientists to ignore such repugnance in the name of science is deeply unscientific. There is, in the end, no dichotomy between morality and science. The fact that the SCI and its Foundation have to go to such great lengths to justify killing under the banner of ‘conservation’, and actively exclude dissenting voices through AWCF meetings, tells you everything you need to know. Trophy hunting is fundamentally extractive and clearly has colonial roots. Rationalising it now as an anti-colonial policy choice under ‘sovereignty’ is deeply disingenuous. 

26 Nov

WAPFSA RESPONDS TO THE THE HIGH LEVEL ADVISORY COMMITTEE APPOINTED BY DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT, FORESTRY AND FISHERIES

We are disappointed and deeply concerned with the selection of the Committee as well as the Department’s lack of transparency and clarity in respect of the selection thereof. In our Nominations Letter, we put forward extremely qualified candidates who collectively have decades of experience and extensive qualifications in their respective fields of ethical conservation management, biodiversity policies, wildlife trade, legislation, animal protection, economics and welfare species-specific expertise.

25 Nov

THE FUTURE OF THE SANWILD WILDLIFE SANCTUARY

For 20 years the SanWild Wildlife Sanctuary, situated in Gravelotte in Limpopo, has received public donations in its capacity as a public benefit organisation in order to sustain itself. According to research carried out the Sanctuary has, in our opinion, been grossly mismanaged, as clearly indicated by the media statement referred to. Public money has allegedly been misappropriated and the animals treated as mere commodities, the very opposite of a sanctuary.

11 Nov

South Africa’s Positional Play at CITES is Poor Form

Stakeholders in the wildlife ranching industry were at pains to moan about how ‘western’ NGOs have ‘captured CITES’, which in their view is a trade convention as opposed to a conservation convention. It might be worth reminding everybody that the very first part of the preamble to the Convention text recognises ‘that wild fauna and flora in their many beautiful and varied forms are an irreplaceable part of the natural systems of the earth which must be protected for this and the generations to come.’ Every element of the trade regime is premised on this need for protection.

4 Nov

The EMS Foundation Visits The Overstrand Whale Boxing Club

The EMS Foundations has supported the Overstrand Whale Boxing Club, in Hermanus in Cape Town South Africa since June 2019. The Patron and Executive Director of EMS Foundation, Liz Steyn and Michele Pickover expressed their satisfaction and joy at Boxing Club achievements in September and confirmed their support to training, competitions and travelling. “We believe in everything you are doing”. 

22 Oct

EMS Presentation to the Parliament Portfolio Committee on Environmental Affairs:

On the 22nd of October, economist Dr Ross Harvey presented to the Portfolio Committee (PC) an analysis called "Bred for the bullet: Why big cats should not be bred in captivity", which was a summary of the current state of the predator breeding industry in South Africa in an effort to empower portfolio committee members to hold the Department of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries (DEFF) to account.

16 Oct

MEDIA RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Pressure Mounts on Governments to Stop Baby Elephant Imports

A letter has been delivered by hand to the Chinese ambassador to the United Nations, urging the Chinese president to halt the reportedly imminent import of 33 captive elephants from Zimbabwe to undisclosed captive facilities in China (word on the ground estimates that the transport will occur today or tomorrow). The letter is penned by a group of thirty-five global specialists in elephant biology, husbandry, elephant management, legal and policy analysis, economics and conservation, most of whom are based in Africa.

16 Oct

Urgent Letter Regarding Import of Elephants to Pakistan from Africa

Namibian environment ministry confirmed on the 1st November 2019 that there was no longer any application under consideration to export elephants to Pakistan. A group of 35 global specialists in elephant biology, husbandry, elephant management, legal and policy analysis, economics and conservation, most of whom are based in Africa expressed their concerns to both the Namibian and Pakistan governments. The EMS Foundation said in its letter that globally public sentiment was running against the keeping of this iconic African species in captivity.

16 Oct

Urgent Letter Re Proposed Export of Elephants from Namibia to Pakistan

Removing baby elephants from their families is increasingly recognised as an ethically and ecologically unacceptable practice. It is universally recognized that elephants are wide-ranging, vastly intelligent, sentient beings with a highly organised social structure including strong family bonds that can last a lifetime. Elephants also have basic needs for stimulating ecological and social environments, and for the freedom to exercise choice over their foraging options and companions. These needs cannot be met under captive conditions and elephants so deprived inevitably suffer from physical and mental pathologies.

15 Oct

Local Boxers Big Hit at Nationals

Overstrand Whale Boxing Club’s boxers marched through the streets of Zwelihle with a banner and posters to thank EMS Foundation for the organisation’s support. The talented young boxers also displayed the trophies they won at various boxing tournaments.

15 Oct

Presentation: Chief Stephen Fritz

EMS Foundation held an elephant conference in Hermanus, global elephant experts attended to discuss African elephants in captivity in zoos around the world. Chief Stephen Fritz a community leader opened the conference explaining the important of the elephant in the Khoisan culture.

15 Oct

Presentation: Dr Gay Bradshaw

Dr Gay Bradshaw holds doctorate degrees in both ecology and psychology She holds a Master's in geophysics Her research expertise focuses on the sources and healing of human-caused violence to Animals. She was first to diagnose Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in free living Elephants and Chimpanzees.

15 Oct

Presentation: Jim Karani

Jim Karani is Africa’s first Animal lawyer and an Advocate of the High Court of Kenya. He speaks about policy contexts including trade in Elephants and the CITES “acceptable destinations”.

15 Oct

Presentation: Dr Joyce Poole

Dr Joyce Poole is the Co-director of ElephantVoices. Joyce is an elephant ethologist/ecologist, and conservation biologist and is a world authority on elephant reproductive, communicative and cognitive behaviour. She speaks about who elephants are and why they are not suited to captivity.

15 Oct

Presentation: Kahindi Lekalhaile

Kahindi Lekalhaile is the Chief Operations Director at the Africa Network for Animal Welfare. He presented at the EMS Foundation global elephant conference held in Hermanus called: Taking Elephants Out of the Room. He spoke about animal welfare considerations for decision makers on keeping elephants in captivity.

15 Oct

Presentation: Prof. David Bilchitz

Professor David Bilchitz is a Professor of Fundamental Rights and Constitutional Law at the University of Johannesburg. Professor Bilchitz presented at the EMS Foundation elephant indaba, Taking Elephants Out of the Room, held in Hermanus in South Africa. He is Director of the South African Institute for Advanced Constitutional, Public, Human Rights and International Law (SAIFAC)  He spoke about the policy framework of “Sustainable Use” in relation to animal welfare and elephants in South Africa.

10 Oct

Indaba of Experts Concludes that Elephants Should Not be in Captivity

On 6 September 2019, the EMS Foundation, convened an international Indaba and Panel Discussion with national and international elephant behavioural specialists in Hermanus, Western Cape, South Africa, to discuss the issue of elephants in captivity and to develop a framework as well as policy guidelines for dealing with elephants in captivity.

7 Oct

Fighting for Positive Change

Coach and founder of the Overstrand Whale Boxing Club (OWBC) Mzi Damesi has big dreams of taking boxing to local communities with a ‘pop-up’ boxing ring. “Boxing is a great sport: it teaches youngsters discipline, courage, self-defence skills and the resilience to handle life’s challenges,” he says.

7 Oct

Local boxing Club Rakes in Awards

In Swellendam on 27 July, Siphamandla Damesi won the Newcomer of the Year Overberg Sport Council award. Siphamandla has been winning almost nothing but gold medals and trophies since 2018 and the club is hoping he will be chosen for the South African team for 2020.

7 Oct

Alleged Smuggling of Lion Bones Called “Legal” by Minister’s Spokesperson

The export of lion bones from South Africa is currently illegal. In order to be legal, a yearly quota is supposed to be proposed by the South African Scientific Authority including the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) through the National Convention on the international Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) Management Authority, then approved and communicated to all provincial conservation departments and managed at National level under the authority of the Minister of Forestry and Fishery and Environmental Affairs, Barbara Creecy.

4 Oct

Giving new meaning to the word Disingenuous!

Barbara Creecy, South Africa’s Minister for the Environment, Forestry and Fisheries, yesterday – 3 October 2019 – addressed the launch of South Africa’s National Biodiversity Assessment. This occasion follows hot on the heels of the Minister appearing in selfies with Greta Thunberg, whose speech to the United Nations Climate Action summit on 23 September has made some angry white men hot under the collar (or even angrier).

4 Oct

Compatibility of Trophy Hunting as a Form of Sustainable Use with IUCN’s Objectives

The debate about the justifiability of trophy hunting ranges from stressing economic benefits at one end of the spectrum to fundamental ethical objections at the other. Supporters base their argument largely on the perceived virtue of economic benefits and advantages for conservation. The claim is that local communities financially benefit from hunting and funds raised can be directed toward conservation efforts. These claims are based on financial, empirical evidence, but the benefits appear to be nowhere near as widespread as claimed. For example, in Zimbabwe as little as 3% of the income for trophy hunting actually reaches local communities.

22 Sep

Exporting Chimpanzees from South Africa to China: Utterly wrong but Technically Allowed by CITES Loopholes?

All our attempts to engage with and confirm this with both the North West province (including their spokesperson) and the Hartbeespoort Snake and Animal Park have been unsuccessful, as neither returned our calls or responded to our enquiries.   

10 Sep

Elephants in Captivity Under the Spotlight: Taking Elephants out of the Room

ln Hermanus on 6 September, at the Municipal Auditorium, elephant specialists from around Africa and the world participated in a conference, Taking Elephants out of the Room, to begin the process of dealing with issues of their captivity, welfare and the ethics of confining these sentient creatures. The aim was to create a framework within which to assess the ‘imprisonment’ of captive elephants and to set standards for their ethical treatment.

9 Sep

Presentation: Audrey Delsink

TAKING ELEPHANTS OUT OF THE ROOM EMS FOUNDATION ELEPHANT INDABA Taking Elephants out of the Room, September 2019 Image Credit: https://www.iol.co.za/ios/news/problem-planning-not-problem-elephants-23b719ac-507e-4848-8097-13a9d89278d0 © Copyright EMS Foundation 2019. All rights reserved.

9 Sep

Presentation: Marion E. Garaï

TAKING ELEPHANTS OUT OF THE ROOM EMS FOUNDATION ELEPHANT INDABA Taking Elephants out of the Room, September 2019 Image Credit: https://rss.com/podcasts/allaboutanimals/554892/ © Copyright EMS Foundation 2019. All rights reserved.

9 Sep

Presentation: Yolanda Pretorius

TAKING ELEPHANTS OUT OF THE ROOM THE EMS FOUNDATION ELEPHANT INDABA Taking Elephants out of the Room, September 2019 Image Credit: https://www.up.ac.za/research-matters/news/post_2993274-learning-from-the-intelligence-and-emotion-of-elephants © Copyright EMS Foundation 2019. All rights reserved.

9 Sep

Presentation: Lynne James

TAKING ELEPHANTS OUT OF THE ROOM THE EMS FOUNDATION ELEPHANT INDABA SPCA Zimbabwe Lynne James is the Chair of the Mutare SPCA in Zimbabwe. She speaks about the capture of Zimbabwe’s elephants

9 Sep

Presentation: Antoinette van de Water

TAKING THE ELEPHANT OUT OF THE ROOM THE EMS FOUNDATION ELEPHANT INDABA Taking Elephants out of the Room, September 2019 © Copyright EMS Foundation 2019. All rights reserved.

9 Sep

Presentation: Keith Lindsey

TAKING THE ELEPHANTS OUT OF THE ROOM THE EMS FOUNDATION ELEPHANT INDABA Taking Elephants out of the Room, September 2019 © Copyright EMS Foundation 2019. All rights reserved.

9 Sep

Presentation: Lenin Tinashe Chisaira

TAKING THE ELEPHANT OUT OF THE ROOM THE EMS FOUNDATION ELEPHANT INDABA Taking Elephants out of the Room, September 2019 © Copyright EMS Foundation 2019. All rights reserved.

30 Aug

No Governance, No Science and No Sustainability in South Africa’s Captive Lion Breeding Industry

It has been clear for a long time that – to put it euphemistically – there has been a catastrophic absence of governance in South Africa’s captive lion breeding industry. The national Department of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries (DEFF) is tone-deaf to the global scientific community’s abhorrence of the industry. A strong indicator of zero governance is that DEFF repeatedly says that it does not know how many lions are in captivity in South Africa and how many facilities are involved in the various immoral activities associated with the industry (such as unregulated slaughter for the lion bone market). For this reason, in May 2019 the EMS Foundation submitted a request under the Promotion of Access to Information Act (PAIA), no. 2 of 2000 to get an answer to these questions.

26 Aug

It’s not a Numbers Game

The shooting of elephants is often defended on the grounds that it provides conservation benefits that could not otherwise be achieved. For instance, not all conservation areas are amenable to photographic tourism, which means that they require other sources of funding to prevent the conversion of that wilderness landscape to agriculture whether that be through culling or trophy hunting. This argument is likely reflective of a false dichotomy, but that is not the subject of this article. Another argument typically offered in favour of culling elephants  is that elephants destroy large trees, which has negative cascading ecological effects. The natural order of vegetation is ostensibly upended, and other species suffer as a result.

26 Aug

Access to Information Request Reveals that South Africa holds 77 tonnes of Stockpiled Ivory: This is Untenable

South Africa doesn’t make its ivory stockpile numbers publicly known, so in May 2019 the EMS Foundation submitted a request under the Promotion of Access to Information Act (PAIA), no. 2 of 2000. In response, the Department of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries (DEFF) revealed that the national ivory stockpile held by government bodies is nearly 77 tonnes. The majority of this ivory is held by South Africa National Parks (SANParks), with the remainder split between other government bodies that manage ivory. Of the total tonnage, 50 tonnes are comprised of ‘management’ ivory, which includes ivory removed from ‘culled’ elephants, natural mortality or ‘damage causing animals’. A further 15.8 tonnes are confiscations, while 10.9 tonnes fall into the ‘unknown’ category. Private ivory stockpiles also feature a remarkable 8.9 tonnes, 7.3 of which are ‘management’, while 1.6 are of ‘unknown’ origin.

26 Aug

SOUTH AFRICA’S RHINO HORN STOCKPILE

In response, the Department of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries (DEFF) revealed that that the government is holding 27 tonnes of rhino horn through SANParks and other government bodies. This consists of 15,003 horns. The PAIA response also states that the total number of horns held privately is 18,884, amounting to 22 tonnes. This makes the average weight of the government horns 1,8kg and the average private horn 1.19kg. The average front horn of a white rhino weighs 4 kg, so the weight discrepancy needs to be explained. Horns accruing from natural mortality (combining government and private stockpiles) weigh 45 tonnes, while confiscated horn is 25 tonnes.

20 Aug

Open Letter by Elephant Specialists, Re Captive Elephants and Import of Wild Elephants for Captivity

This letter, signed by 54 experts who "collectively are world-renowned authorities on elephant behaviour, sociality, welfare, care and conservation," was sent to US Fish and Wildlife today in opposition to any prospective imports of wild-caught elephants from Zimbabwe or, by extension, any nation.

19 Aug

The Environmental Movement in South Africa

An Analysis Of Animal-Based Issues, Campaigns And Organisations “The animals of the world exist for their own reason. They were not made for humans any more than black people were made for whites or women for men.” Alice Walker Oppression of animals that are not human often takes place invisibly. Social constructs and arrangements as […]

7 Aug

WAPFSA Comments on Biodiversity Bill

We want to highlight the importance of today’s Lion Bone Judgement which has major implications for CapeNature and the issuing of permits to facilities keeping captive wildlife and offering wildlife/human interaction. We request a moratorium on issuing of permits until processes and procedures will be in place to implement the judjment which we request you […]

6 Aug

High Court Judgement on Lion Bone Quota

Lion Bone Judgement in Full: A landmark decision was reached in the High Court in the matter NSPCA vs Department of Environmental Affairs on the 6th of August 2019. The decision was made in regard to South Africa’s controversial lion bone trade. The trade in lion bone in 2017 and 2018 was ruled unlawful and […]

30 Jul

The EMS Foundation And Ban Animal Trading Investigation

The first part of the Extinction Business series of investigative reports was published in July 2018, the result of eighteen months of research. Titled the Extinction Business South Africa's Lion Bone Trade researched, written and published by the EMS Foundation and Ban Animal Trading South Africa.

30 Jul

SSN Briefing to the South African Minister of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries

Many congratulations on your appointment as Minister of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries. The fact that you were asked to take on this vast portfolio speaks much for your track record. We wish you every success in the job and hope there will be opportunities for us to work together to help advance South Africa’s efforts to protect and conserve its wildlife. We represent organisations that are members of the Species Survival Network (SSN), and in particular its Rhinoceros and Elephant Working Groups. Founded in 1992, SSN is an international coalition of over 80 non- governmental organizations committed to the promotion, enhancement, and strict enforcement of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). As a group of conservation organisations with extensive knowledge of, and decades of experience with, wildlife policy, particularly in relation to trade, we have prepared the attached briefing on the impacts of international trade on endangered species, in the hope that you will find the time to read and consider it. We have prepared it in the knowledge that poaching crises, however daunting they may appear, can be - and have been - dealt with successfully, provided that the full range of available tools are used and that policies that directly undermine efforts to conserve wildlife are not adopted

18 Jul

Donation of Tutudesks to schools in the Vaalwater area of Limpopo

The EMS Foundation and Shambala Private Game Reserve donated Tutu Desks to six schools in Limpopo Province to help make teaching and learning effective. Tutu desks are made to last each pupil the duration of the school career.

16 Jul

Letter RE: Euthanizing of Baboons as a Strategy

Following the euthanasia of five baboons in the last three months, we met with a group of concerned interested and affected parties and discussed their concerns. The consensus of the meeting was that there is an urgent need to call for a moratorium on killing baboons, until such a time that there is a more in-depth assessment of the current situation. The undersigned organisations are in support of such a moratorium. In our opinion, there is a deep underlying incompatibility between the killing of baboons in terms of the latest Guidelines and not resolving the factors that contribute to the raiding behaviour that create the very basis for the implementation of these Guidelines.

16 Jul

Ability Organic Garden

The EMS Foundation currently supports the Ability Garden in the Overberg region of the Western Cape in South Africa. This is a food security project. Establishing food gardens at various organisations and schools is one of the EMS Foundation's key projects in South Africa.

12 Jul

Octopus Trapping in the False Bay, how to move forward

"It is of serious concern to us that 13 whales have been entangled in octopus-trap fisheries along the South African coast over several years, with 9 whales having succumbed to their injuries. Although very dangerous, octopus traps are not the only line catch devices causing entanglements; other fatalities have been recorded and have been linked to crayfish line traps. It is our understanding that both octopus and crayfish catch devices, as well as other line nonmovable systems, are a huge threat to marine life and simply should not be permitted in or near protected areas and along all known whale reproductive routes".

18 Jun

Determination of the 2019 Leopard Trophy Hunting Quota Submission

From Members of the Wildlife Animal Protection Forum South Africa to Minister and Department of Environment Forestry and Fisheries, 18 June 2019. © Copyright EMS Foundation 2019. All rights reserved.

17 Jun

2019 Lion Bone Quota Submission

WILDLIFE ANIMAL PROTECTION FORUM SOUTH AFRICA SUBMISSION TO MINISTER BARBARA CREECY For the determination of the 2019 Lion Bone Quota – Submission from Twenty-Five NGOs represented by the Wildlife Animal Protection Forum South Africa to Minister and Department of Environment Forestry and Fisheries, 17 June 2019. © Copyright EMS Foundation 2019. All rights reserved.

4 Jun

Local boxing club an inspiration to all

The RDP Centre in Zwelihle erupted into jubilant celebrations on Saturday afternoon, when the EMS Foundation handed over a substantial donation to the Overstrand Whale Boxing Club. The heart-warming handover ceremony, hosted by William Ntebe and Fikiswa Gxamesi of the Zwelihle Youth Café, kicked off when an overjoyed Coach Mzi Damesi and his more than […]

28 May

OWBC Hits for Gold

The Overstrand Whale Boxing Club (OWBC) competed in a number of competitions recently: Coach Mzi would like to thank Liza van Coppenhagen for allowing them to do fundraising at the Hermanus Country Market, as well at the Hermanus community for their support. The funds raised allowed the boys to attend all three competitions. ©EMS Foundation […]

1 Apr

Response from Wildlife Animal Protection Forum South Africa

TROPHY HUNTING IN BOTSWANA Response from Wildlife Animal Protection Forum South Africa to Sub-Committee on Hunting Ban Social Dialogue Report and Recommendation Wildlife Animal Protection Forum South Africa is a coalition of twenty-six South African wildlife NGOs. We implore the government of Botswana not to implement the recommendations handed to the President on 21st February […]

22 Feb

Response from Wildlife Animal Protection Forum South Africa to Sub-Committee on Hunting Ban Social Dialogue Report and Recommendation

Wildlife Animal Protection Forum South Africa is a coalition of twenty-six South African wildlife NGOs. We implore the government of Botswana not to implement the recommendations handed to the President on 21st February 2019. Image Credit: https://www.grahamsalessafaris.com/elephant-hunting-botswana/ © Copyright EMS Foundation 2019. All rights reserved.

21 Feb

Parliamentary Inquiry into Benefit-Sharing Agreement in the Western Boundary of the Kruger National Park between SANParks, APNR and Communities

5 – 6 February 2019 Parliament slams Kruger Park for defying directive not to sign agreement with neighbours Kruger National Park has been condemned by Parliament for signing an agreement which it had been expressly forbidden to sign by the Portfolio Committee on Environmental Affairs. Read the full article on the Daily Maverick Trophy hunting […]

21 Feb

Comments on Draft Norms and Standards for the Management of Elephants in South Africa

Elephants are highly intelligent, sensitive and social creatures that have their own intrinsic worth, a worth that needs to be protected. They further have immeasurable value to our country, its people, our heritage and future generations. They have complex social systems and qualities beyond our understanding. There is various scientific research in this regard. The […]

21 Feb

CALL FOR MORATORIUM ON HUNTING IN THE ASSOCIATED PRIVATE NATURE RESERVES SOUTH AFRICA

CALL FOR MORATORIUM ON HUNTING IN THE KRUGER NATIONAL PARKS ASSOCIATED PRIVATE NATURE RESERVES The purpose of this letter is request an urgent undertaking from SANParks that it will not sign a new agreement between themselves and the Associated Private Nature Reserves (APNR) until the process that the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Environmental Affairs directed […]

29 Jan

Free Lammie the Elephant from the Jo’burg Zoo: Elephant Behavioural Specialists Support our Call

Elephant Reintegration Trust, The EMS Foundation, and Humane Society International-Africa, submit an open letter to the City from the world’s most renowned elephant behavioural specialists and researchers in support of the Proposal to release the elephant named Lammie (#FreeLammie) at the Johannesburg Zoo to a rewilding facility. © Copyright EMS Foundation 2019. All rights reserved. Image Credit: Ban […]

13 Nov

SA Parliament hits out at Captive Lion Breeding & the Lion Bone Trade

In a move to hold the wayward Department of Environmental Affairs to account, and signalling the beginning of the end of the captive and canned lion industry in South Africa, the official Parliamentary Committee on Environmental Affairs Report and Recommendations on the Captive Lion industry in South Africa has been published.

10 Oct

EMS Foundation, BAT and Animal Law Reform Objections to Draft Regulations on Rhino Horn Trade

The proposed regulations establish a system for permits to be issued for a person to “sell give, donate, buy, receive, accept as a gift or donate, or in any similar way dispose of or acquire, a rhinoceros horn”. While this system appears to be targeting so-called ‘domestic’ trade in rhino horn within the borders of South Africa, it is highly likely that such legal trade will be exploited to smuggle rhino horn to the key Asian markets where consumers are willing to pay ‘top dollar’ for it.

26 Sep

Lion Cubs Born Through Artificial Insemination at Ukutula Conservation Centre & Biobank

The undersigned includes some of the world’s leading lion conservation and research organisations, and representatives from multiple sectors including animal welfare, animal protection, multi-cultural and faith-based NGO’s. Based on our cumulative knowledge and experience, we do not support the captive breeding of lions, whether assisted or not, because it does not contribute to biodiversity conservation or address the main threats to wild lion conservation. Furthermore, the captive lion breeding industry in South Africa is associated with the exploitation of lions through interaction activities (lion cub petting and lion walks), canned trophy hunting of lions (the trophy hunting of tame lions in enclosed spaces) and the lion skeleton trade.

10 Jul

Using African Honeybees as a Deterrent Method for African Elephant Impacts on Marula Trees in South Africa

Elephants Alive thanks the EMS Foundation for their generous funding which allowed for twenty-five new superior Beepak hives have now been hung in iconic Marula trees in Jejane Reserve

1 Jul

THE EXTINCTION BUSINESS SOUTH AFRICAS LION BONE TRADE

Over the last eighteen months, the EMS Foundation and Ban Animal Trading have been gathering extensive information and investigating South Africa’s international ‘lion’ bone trade. This data has provided the basis of The Extinction Business Report - SOUTH AFRICA'S LION BONE TRADE

19 Jun

Tiny Bees Buzz to the Rescue as Elephants Wreak Havoc

Read Full Report: https://dw.com/en/tiny-bees-buzz-to-the-rescue-as-elephants-wreak-havoc/a-44287843 Elephant numbers in South Africa’s Kruger National Park are rising — which is good news. But the prominent pachyderms are destroying habitat for other animals. Can the tiny bee provide a last line of defense? © Copyright EMS Foundation 2018. All rights reserved.

15 Jun

Kruger Lions: Hunting for Skye and the Truth

Let’s get this straight. The gratuitous killing of wild animals for pleasure and profit under the guise of conservation is not only highly contested and refutable, but is at the heart of the public outrage over the trophy killing of a male lion on the borders of the Kruger National Park last week".

31 May

The Culling of Hippopotami

Letter concering the well-being and safety of up to 2,000 wild hippopotami that currently live in Zambia’s Luangwa Valley and face destruction. © Copyright EMS Foundation 2018. All rights reserved.

10 Apr

Appeal to President Cyril Ramaphosa for Urgent Actions Against the Criminal Rhino Horn Syndicates Required

We respectfully urge you to publicly denounce the syndicates responsible for South Africa’s rhino poaching crisis and allocate adequate resources to investigate and prosecute these criminals to the full extent of the law. By taking swift action South Africa can overcome the immense challenges threatening the continued survival of the rhino and once again save […]

5 Mar

Call for Thai Government to Revoke Zoo Licence for Business Behind Notorious Tiger Temple

https://www.nhm.ac.uk/wpy/gallery/2012-the-tourist-tiger-trail A total of 28 NGOs have today called on the Government of Thailand to revoke a zoo licence for the business behind the infamous Tiger Temple. The Tiger Temple – a tourist attraction and captive tiger facility notorious for tourist ‘tiger selfies’ – has been repeatedly implicated in illegal trade in tiger parts, as […]

28 Feb

TIGERS IN CAPTIVITY IN SOUTH AFRICA

TIGERS IN CAPTIVITY IN SOUTH AFRICA NUMEROUS FACILITIES AND INDIVIDUALS HOUSING AND BREEDING ASIAN BIG CATS A TOTALLY UNREGULATED INDUSTRY Our research has shown that the industry is growing as there are more facilities and more tigers. Our research clearly shows that inbreeding is rampant and given the lack of regulation or control by South […]

15 Feb

Supporting Efforts to Save the Critically Endangered Vaquita in Mexico’s Gulf of California

https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/population-vaquita-porpoises-has-dwindled-to-ten-but-rebound-isnt-out-of-question-180980068/ Scientists say there may now be fewer than 30 vaquitas left. According to the Center For Biological Diversity, vaquitas are about the size of small humans, topping out at about 5 feet long and 120 pounds, with black borders around their expressive eyes and rounded mouth. They’re known to be shy and elusive — but […]

30 Jan

Treatment of Animals at Rangunan Zoo

Asia for Animals Coalition letter to Ministry of Forestry, Indonesia regarding the treatment of animals at  Ragunan Zoo. © Copyright EMS Foundation 2018. All rights reserved.

11 Jan

Sign-on letter to CNN – U.S. Regarding the Documentary Trophy: January 2018

We understand CNN – U.S. will be airing a pre-recorded interview with the CEO of Born Free USA, Prashant Khetan, on January 11 and a live conversation between Mr. Khetan and Philip Glass, a hunter featured in Trophy, on January 12. We are respectfully asking you to please reconsider airing this “shockumentary” on your esteemed […]

11 Jan

Letter to Zimbabwe President regarding the export of baby elephants to China: January 2018

https://edition.cnn.com/2019/11/24/africa/zimbabwe-elephant-trade-intl/index.html The EMS Foundation signed a letter to President Emmerson Mnangagwa urging him to immediately halt the further capture and export of young, wild elephants from Zimbabwe’s parks to captive facilities overseas. © Copyright EMS Foundation 2018. All rights reserved.

10 Jan

Letter Regarding The Prosecution of Nguyen Mau Chien

LETTER REGARDING THE PROSECUTION OF NGUYEN MAU CHIEN On behalf of the undersigned organisations, we are writing to congratulate you on your government’s commitment to tackle wildlife trafficking. This has been demonstrated by the landmark investigation and enforcement effort that has led to the upcoming first-instance trial of Nguyen Mau Chien and his associates Nguyen […]

29 Nov

The African Lion Conservation Community’s Response to the South African Predator Association’s Letter

The African Lion Conservation Community’s Response to the South African Predator Association’s Letter We wish to express that SAPA’s letter is fraught with inaccuracies, false statements, and a flawed viewpoint that is shaped for the economic benefit of captive lion breeders. We recommend that USFWS maintains their current position which is to ban the importation […]

24 Nov

Humane Society – Trophy Hunting – FACA Comments

COMMENTS OPPOSING THE ESTABLISHMENT OF AN INTERNATIONAL WILDLIFE CONSERVATION COUNCIL Comments Opposing the Establishment of an International Wildlife Conservation Council The Humane Society of the United States, Humane Society International, Humane Society Legislative Fund and the undersigned groups strongly urge the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to not establish the euphemistically-named International Wildlife Conservation Council […]

22 Sep

EMS Foundation Ensures Release Back into the Wild of Twelve Young Baboons Destined for Research at the University of the Free State

Release Back into the Wild of Twelve Young Baboons Destined for Research at the University of the Free State On Wednesday 20th September 12 young and highly stressed baboons, who weeks before had ruthlessly been ripped from their families by controversial primate trapper and zoo (Eventiera) owner Erich Venter for heartless use in biomedical research […]

14 Sep

EU CITES MA Letter – Importation into the EU of hunting trophies from Annex B species

IMPORTATION INTO THE EUROPEAN UNION OF HUNTING TROPHIES FROM ANNEX B SPECIES We therefore request that the European Commission and EU Member States urgently revise Commission Regulation 865/2006 to require the issuance of import permits for hunting trophies from all Annex B species. © 2017 EMS Foundation. All rights reserved.

10 Nov

Letter to the Minister of Environment, Zimbabwe, regarding potential exports of live elephants from Zimbabwe to captive facilities

EXPORTS OF LIVE ELEPHANTS FROM ZIMBABWE TO CAPTIVE FACILITIES Letter from the Species Survival Network (SSN) to the Minister of Environment, Zimbabwe, regarding potential exports of live elephants from Zimbabwe to captive facilities. © 2016 EMS Foundation. All rights reserved.

30 Sep

Objections and Comments on the Published Norms and Standards for the Management of Damage Causing Animals

As part of the public participation process for The Norms and Standards for the Management of Damage Causing Animals in South Africa, please find the following general comments and specific suggestions. Read the full document © 2016 EMS Foundation. All rights reserved.

24 Sep

ENOUGH IS ENOUGH: How South Africa’s policies are killing Africa’s wild animals

This Report tries to unpack South Africa’s role in a world where Africa’s animals are literally “Under Siege”. We highlight an obvious pattern: legal trade in both ivory and rhino horn is part of the problem and should be prohibited, because it has been used to launder illegal ivory and rhino horn which in turn […]

3 Nov

Protected: DESPITE CALLS FROM SANBI FOR EXPRESSION FOR INTEREST FOR THE RETIREMENT OF ZOO ELEPHANT IN 2023 AND A SIGNED AGREEMENT IN 2024 ZOO STAFF PROTEST PUT ELEPHANT AND RELOCATION TEAM’S LIFE AT RISK

There is no excerpt because this is a protected post.

28 Feb

SOUTH AFRICA’S RHINO HORN STOCKPILES INTRINSIC TO ILLEGAL TRADE

Rather than banking on the extinction of rhinos, South Africa must embrace rhino horn stockpile destruction as an anti-poaching, anti-trafficking, and demand reduction tool to meaningfully contribute to the ethical protection of rhino populations in Africa and Asia and to mitigate their extinction. Doing so will send a strong signal that South Africa is firmly committed to preserving and protecting rhinos, and to truly ensuring their welfare and well-being. By virtue of the precautionary approach, South Africa, and other CITES States Parties must act in the best interest of the conservation of the species and urgently uplist rhinos currently on Appendix II to Appendix I.

19 May

CHEETAH PERMIT QUESTIONS