An analysis of nature conservation legislation in South Africa with particular reference to the wildlife trade.

Wildlife trade in South Africa is currently regulated in terms of a highly fragmented potpourri of provincial Ordinances, Acts, Decrees and Proclamations which are, in numerous aspects, inconsistent, incomplete, outdated and overly complex.

 

 This confusing legislative structure makes it extremely difficult for conservation authorities already facing budgetary and capacity constraints, to carry out their work effectively and efficiently. As a result, a joint research project was initiated between the Institute of Criminology (University of Cape Town) and TRAFFIC east/southern Africa to analyse existing provincial and national laws relevant to the regulation of the wildlife trade in South Africa.

 

This 18-month study led to a series of recommendations that were intended to be used as a tool in aligning provincial legislation and policies and ensuring their compatibility with national legislation. The final report includes an overview and analysis of provincial and national laws, an outline of key themes that should be included in policy and legislative development and a series of recommendations and alignment options that will be submitted to provincial and national authorities to assist in amending, developing and drafting nature conservation and biodiversity legislation.

Electronic copies of the report are available in pdf format at the following address:

(go to 'publications' and 'ecological criminology').

If access to the internet is not possible, copies may be obtained from Maria Hauck at: mhauck@law.uct.ac.za