Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Velani Ludidi
Published on 2024-02-22 12:43:28
The recent docking of the Al Kuwait livestock carrier in Cape Town has sparked controversy and raised questions about the treatment of the 19,000 cattle on board. The ship, which had been at sea for eight days after transporting cattle from Brazil, made an emergency stop in Cape Town for animal feed and fuel. South African authorities conducted medical assessments of the animals and provided necessary medical care. However, leaked pictures revealed the animals’ unhygienic and inhumane living conditions on the ship, leading to public outcry and demands for the cattle to be confiscated and treated in the country.
The situation has drawn comparisons to a previous incident in East London, where a feedlot manager cruelly cut off the horns of 126 rams, leading to their confiscation and treatment by the National Council of Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (NSPCA). In the case of the Al Kuwait, authorities expressed concerns about the introduction of foreign diseases to South Africa if the cattle were confiscated, as they originated from Brazil. Officials stated that their actions were in line with the Animal Protection Act and emphasized the risk of foreign diseases.
Reports have also surfaced alleging that both dead and live cows from the ship were being dumped in the middle of the ocean, with live cows deemed unsuitable for slaughter. While NSPCA officials were not aware of these reports, they highlighted the need for proper on-board carcass handling and storage equipment, stressing the importance of adhering to international and local legislations.
The South African Maritime Safety Authority (Samsa) outlined regulations for the discharge of animal carcasses into the sea, emphasizing the need for compliance with designated special areas, the opening of thoracic and abdominal cavities of the carcass, and adherence to specific guidelines. Samsa also expressed concerns about allegations of live animals being thrown overboard, stating that they would intervene if the ship did not comply with regulations. The live export industry has been under scrutiny, with claims that unsuitable animals are often offloaded and sold under similar conditions.
In response to the controversy, the Department of Transport spokesperson, Collen Msibi, clarified that the vessel had been cleared for cargo works, bunkers, and medical supplies, as well as food and water for both humans and livestock. Despite the clearance, concerns over the treatment of the cattle and the potential environmental impact of disposing of carcasses at sea continue to be raised.
The incident with the Al Kuwait has prompted widespread debate and scrutiny of the treatment of livestock in the live export industry, as well as the responsibilities of authorities in ensuring the welfare of animals during transportation. The public outcry and demands for action highlight the importance of animal welfare and the need for greater accountability in the shipping industry.
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