The proposed culling of 121 baboons on the Cape Peninsula has drawn international attention, prompting UNESCO’s World Heritage Centre to formally engage with the South African Government for further information, Cape {town} Etc reports.
The development was initially brought to light by Carol Knox, a local environmental advocate. She previously raised concerns about the proposed baboon removals in a letter to the Cape Argus and has since submitted a formal complaint to the Public Protector.
The Cape Peninsula, part of a World Heritage Site and home to a genetically distinct population of chacma baboons, is the focus of a proposal submitted by the Baboon Management Joint Task Team (JTT). In line with Paragraph 174 of its Operational Guidelines, UNESCO has confirmed that it is in contact with the relevant authorities to verify the details of the plan.
According to a statement from UNESCO, when the Secretariat receives information from sources other than the State Party concerned, it must seek clarification and a response from the national government.
Local civil society organisations, including the Simon’s Town Green Group, have submitted formal objections to the proposed cull. Their submission alleges non-compliance with environmental legislation and raises concerns over a lack of public consultation and exploration of non-lethal alternatives.
A recent study cited by the group suggests that the removal of approximately 25% of the baboon population could negatively impact the population’s genetic diversity. A separate community survey found that 74% of respondents supported coexistence strategies, while 5% favoured full removal.
An online petition opposing the cull has reportedly gathered more than 7 500 signatures.
The Cape Peninsula forms part of the Cape Floral Region Protected Areas World Heritage Site and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, both of which carry international conservation obligations under the Convention on Biological Diversity.
UNESCO has not issued a position on the culling proposal and is currently awaiting an official response from the South African Government.
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Picture: Greg Williams / Supplied
