Archive

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

19 May

CHEETAH PERMIT QUESTIONS

12 May

THE EMS FOUNDATION TOWARDS FREEDOM PROGRAMME

THE EMS FOUNDATION TOWARDS FREEDOM PROGRAMME WATCH THE STORY HERE: https://youtu.be/W96wDDXkGLo Since its inception, the EMS Foundation has worked to free elephants from captivity. This focus area has developed into a specialized EMS Foundation programme with individually focused projects.   In 2015 the EMS Foundation, undertook a review and assessment of the captive elephant industry in […]

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.

22 Mar

OBJECTION TO THE ISSUING OF PERMITS FOR KEEPING, EXHIBITING AND TRANSPORT TO CAPTIVITY OF ELEPHANTS

Objection to the issuing of permits of keeping, exhibiting and transport permits for elephants by CapeNature to a life of captivity

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)