Extension of the period for public comment on the draft white paper on the Conservation and Sustainable use of South Africa’s biodiversity and the draft Game Meat Strategy until 26 September 2022

The public has been granted an extension to comment on the Draft White Paper on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of South Africa’s Biodiversity and on the Draft Game Meat Strategy, published in July for consultation.

The Draft White Paper was published in the Government Gazette 46687 (Notice No 2252) on 8 July 2022. The date for submissions has been extended from 10 September 2022 to 26 September 2022 at the request of members of the public.

Similarly, the draft Game Meat Strategy for South Africa was published in the Government Gazette 47024 (Notice No.2293) on 18 July 2022.  The closing date for comments has also been extended until 26 September 2022.

The draft White Paper  emphasises the need for a holistic approach to sustainable use, which ensures responsible and humane use of South Africa’s biodiversity, and the ending of poor and harmful practices. Equally importantly, the White Paper also ensures transformation, with access and beneficiation by communities adjacent to protected areas, as well as for previously disadvantaged individuals.

An important companion strategy that has been released together with the White Paper on sustainable use, is the Game Meat Strategy. The strategy acknowledges the significant contribution made by current wildlife businesses and the various associations that drive critical elements of the value chain.

The Department believes, that if properly implemented, the Game Meat strategy will allow for compatible land use on the outskirts of our national parks, and ensure a sustainable off take for surrounding communities.

The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment has, since July, undertaken extensive public consultation processes including face-to-face meetings with stakeholders to solicit their comments.

The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Ms Barbara Creecy had earlier emphasized the importance of the public participation process to gain the inputs from a broad range of interested and affected stakeholders. The Minister is pleased with the extensive participation to date, and the large number of submissions that have already been received.

Members of public, including interested and affected stakeholders, are encouraged to take advantage of this extension to make valuable contributions and submissions to improve the Draft White Paper on conservation and sustainable use of South Africa’s biodiversity, and to finalise the draft Game Meat Strategy.

Source: Government of South Africa