The Transnet National Ports Authority said in a statement that it understands the concerns about the livestock carrier Al Kuwait docking in Cape Town.
Also read: Update: SPCA exposes harrowing conditions aboard ‘Kuwaiti death ship’
Rajesh Dana, port manager at Cape Town, stated that they consulted with stakeholders before allowing Al Kuwait to dock.
‘TNPA’s decision to allow the docking of Al Kuwait was made based on a thorough assessment of various factors and in consultation with the state veterinarian, Port Health and the Maritime Security Coordination Centre. The vessel docked on Sunday for animal feed, vessel stores, bunkers and to afford the relevant parties the opportunity to conduct medical assessments on the animals on board as well as administer the necessary medical care.’
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Dana went on to say that the safety and well-being of the animals on board were paramount in making the decision, and the TNPA granted the vessel permission to berth in Cape Town on these grounds.
‘Port Health cleared the vessel and in so doing confirmed that all potential health issues would be managed and controlled. The State Vet Directorate for Animal Health granted permission for the vessel to be docked.’
Dana stated that the TNPA is still monitoring the situation with all relevant stakeholders. ‘TNPA continues to collaborate closely with the vessel agent, terminal operator, state veterinarian, Port Health, Border Management Authority and the National Council of Societies for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals to monitor the well-being of the animals and manage the risk associated with the livestock vessel docked in the port.’
Dana added that the vessel was expected to depart on Tuesday and that operations were being expedited to ensure its timely departure.
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74K South Africans call for halt to live animal shipments amid Al Kuwait controversy