The Cape Peninsula Baboon Management Joint Task Team (CPBMJTT) is working to secure baboon rangers for December 2024 and prepare for the transition starting on 1 January 2025, assuring affected communities that measures are being implemented, Cape {town} Etc reports.
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The Task Team comprises representatives from SANParks, CapeNature, and the City of Cape Town.
In June 2024, the CPBMJTT hosted engagements with communities from baboon-affected areas about the Cape Peninsula Baboon Strategic Management Plan (CPBSMP), its implementation, and the development of area-based solutions in cooperation with the individual communities.
Residents raised concerns about the NCC Environmental Services contract, which manages the Urban Baboon Programme and provides rangers, ending on 31 December 2024.
Over the past few months, the CPBMJTT has been exploring several options to address the upcoming bridging period.
The CPBMJTT is working on several processes to ensure the presence of baboon rangers in the coming months.
A short-term solution involves a Request for Quotation (RFQ) by the City of Cape Town to secure rangers during the festive season.
An interim solution will see a contractor appointed monthly for 12 months.
Meanwhile, the preferred long-term plan is a partnership with a non-profit organisation to manage key tasks, including education campaigns, community outreach, and the provision of rangers, funded by the CPBMJTT, communities, and external donors.
The above measures are underway with urgency and intent as we are transitioning to a more sustainable urban baboon programme that involves communities as well as the parties to the CPBMJTT.
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Picture: Gallo
