Question NW3760 to the Minister of Environmental Affairs
28 October 2015 - NW3760
Madisha, Mr WM to ask the Minister of Environmental Affairs
Whether she approached the United Nations with a view to soliciting its support for South Africa and other African countries that are losing rhinos, elephants and other wildlife through systematic and wide-scale poaching in order for this matter to be dealt with at both national and international level, leading to a treaty coming into force so that South Africa and other African countries can continue to derive economic benefits through ecotourism and community based enterprises linked to the efficient management of wildlife and ecosystems; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
No. Existing multilateral agreements are being used to address poaching and illegal trade in wildlife, as well as ensuring that economic benefits can be derived from the efficient management of wildlife and ecosystems.
The Convention on Biological Diversity is a United Nations convention that has, as objectives, the conservation of biological diversity, the sustainable use of its components; and the fair and equitable sharing of the benefits arising out of the utilisation of genetic resources. Furthermore, the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) provides for sustainable utilisation, and is aimed at ensuring that international trade in specimens of wild animals and plants does not threaten their survival. South Africa is a Party to these conventions, and through collaboration with other Parties, issues of concern, including poaching, is being addressed, while sustainable utilisation is promoted.
--ooOoo--