The National Council of SPCAs (NSPCA) is devastated that the Johannesburg Zoo have brought in another two elephants into a captive environment that is detrimental to any elephant’s well-being. The NSPCA are currently consulting with their legal department for a way forward.
In spite of the NSPCA addressing legal communications to the Johannesburg Zoo, and enquiries with the permitting official, Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (GDARD), two elephants were relocated to the Johannesburg Zoo on 12 June 2019.
The NSPCA had lodged official enquiries with GDARD in relation to the permit applications for elephant by the Johannesburg Zoo. The NSPCA were advised to apply for information via the Promotion of Access to Information Act (PAIA) and were informed by GDARD in the late afternoon of 12 June 2019 that the Johannesburg Zoo had applied for permits to import elephants. On the morning of 13 June 2019 – the NSPCA had received reports that the elephants were already at the zoo.
It is impossible to fulfil the basic five freedoms for elephants in captivity, from environmental requirements to social needs – a life in this zoo that is conducive to the elephants’ welfare is unattainable and it is completely irresponsible of the Johannesburg Zoo, and GDARD, to deprive these elephants of a good life.
The NSPCA remains of the opinion that wild animals belong in the wild.
If you are as passionate about animals and their well-being as we are, consider supporting our causes by donating.
Latest News Posts
Will You Be the One Who Takes Action?
Most people will scroll past this. But will you be the one who stands up for animals?
Animal welfare isn’t always in the spotlight, but it changes lives – for every neglected, abused, or suffering animal we help. Our teams work tirelessly, often behind the scenes, ensuring animals across South Africa are protected.
This work is relentless. The challenges are immense. But with more hands, hearts, and resources, we can do even more.
The equation is simple: the more supporters we have, the greater our reach, the stronger our impact.
Be part of the change. Become an NSPCA Project Partner today. From just R50 per month, you can help ensure that no animal suffers in silence.
