Efforts led by BirdLife South Africa and SANCCOB culminated in a court order protecting the endangered African penguin, following a settlement with commercial fishers. No-take zones around key breeding colonies will help prevent extinction, with implementation required within two weeks. The agreement has been positively received by conservation organizations, emphasizing the need for proactive measures to protect marine ecosystems.
Recent initiatives by BirdLife South Africa and the Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB) have led to significant advancements in the conservation of South Africa’s critically endangered African penguin. This victory includes a court order issued by Deputy Judge President Ledwaba, which grants protection to the species against threats from the commercial sardine and anchovy fishing sectors.
The court order follows a carefully negotiated settlement between the non-governmental organizations and commercial fishers, with state endorsement. This agreement established no-take zones at six critical breeding colonies for African penguins, ensuring vital foraging areas remain intact and helping to avert the species’ extinction.
The designated no-take zones extend an impressive 20 km radius around Robben Island, as well as closures at Stony Point, Bird Island, and St Croix Island, in addition to existing regulations around Dassen Island and Dyer Island. The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) is tasked with enacting these closures within two weeks by modifying the permit conditions for commercial fishers, extending until 2035.
This landmark order has received strong support from key conservation groups. Craig Smith from WWF South Africa commended the agreement and emphasized the need for swift implementation to coincide with the penguin breeding season. Similarly, Kate Handley from the Biodiversity Law Centre highlighted the importance of protecting biodiversity and preventing extinction through government action.
Dr. Alistair McInnes, a seabird conservation programme manager at BirdLife South Africa, remarked on the order’s significance in the campaign to protect Africa’s sole penguin species. He underscored that the livelihoods of individuals benefiting from managed marine ecosystems will be safeguarded through these measures.
The recent court order protecting the African penguin represents a remarkable collaboration between conservationists and the fishing industry. The establishment of no-take zones aims to secure critical habitats for these endangered birds. Timely implementation is crucial, especially with the upcoming breeding season. Stakeholders have expressed optimism that these efforts will contribute to the preservation of marine biodiversity and the sustainability of the ecosystem supporting both the penguins and the fishing industry.
Original Source: witness.co.za
