The Northern Cape High Court in Kimberley has ruled that registered conservation breeding operations may apply for permits to export rhino horn taken from live, captive-bred white rhinos, reports Cape {town} Etc.
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EWN reports that Judge Pule Tlaletsi said the law permits exemptions where horns come from animals bred in captivity and pressed the Management Authority to act where those conditions are satisfied.
‘In circumstances where the Management Authority is satisfied that the rhino horn comes from a white rhinoceros that was bred in captivity for conservation purposes, the Management Authority shall, upon application, issue a permit/certificate to that effect,’ the judgement reads.
According to News24, the case was brought by Rockwood owner Wicus Diedericks and by Derek Lewitton after provincial officials refused earlier export applications.
The court ordered authorities to process Rockwood’s permit application within seven days and to give written reasons if they refuse again.
Derek Lewitton, who has campaigned after losses on his reserve, welcomed the ruling. ‘This fight now turns into a war for the hearts and minds of the public. And we need to fight hard. We can’t give that up like we had in the past,’ he said.
Proponents say ethically harvested horn, which is keratin and regrows like hair and nails, could generate funds for security, job creation and community conservation, shifting revenue away from poachers.
The national Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment said South Africa remains committed to international conservation obligations and noted it is considering its legal options following the ruling.
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