South Africa is moving ahead with plans to prohibit new captive lion breeding facilities as part of a broader overhaul of its biodiversity and wildlife protection legislation.
Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Dion George has confirmed that his department is making rapid progress toward publishing a prohibition notice that will ban the establishment of new captive lion breeding operations for commercial purposes. This forms part of efforts to phase out intensive wildlife breeding and update animal welfare regulations under the Threatened or Protected Species (TOPS) framework.
“This marks a turning point in our approach to wildlife conservation,” said George. “By prohibiting new captive lion breeding facilities and addressing critical animal well-being provisions in the TOPS regulations to be published in due course, we are committed to enforcing clear, effective and legally robust measures that protect South Africa’s natural heritage and address concerns raised by the public, conservation experts and other stakeholders.”
The ban follows recommendations in the Ministerial Task Team Report and supports the objectives of the Policy Position on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Elephant, Lion, Leopard and Rhino. It also aligns with international conservation best practices and ethical wildlife management standards.
The 30-day consideration period required after the notice was tabled before the National Council of Provinces on June 10 has now lapsed. The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment has completed the necessary administrative steps for promulgation by the Executive Authority.
In parallel, the department is engaging with provincial MECs under Section 87A(3) of the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act to facilitate implementation.
George is expected to provide further updates at upcoming stakeholder engagements.
