Tulani Ngwenya
Johannesburg, South Africa – In a surprising turn of events, the Private Rhino Owners Association is advocating for the legalisation of the rhino horn trade, citing potential economic benefits for South Africa. The association, which initially maintained a neutral stance on the matter, now asserts that such a move could save rhinos’ lives while simultaneously providing a significant financial boost to the nation.
South Africa has been grappling with the devastating impact of illegal rhino poaching, having lost nearly 10,000 rhinos over the past 16 years. The recent discovery of 26 unreported rhino carcasses at a game farm in Limpopo underscores the urgency of addressing the issue. A US national was arrested in connection with this incident.
Pelham Jones, the chairperson of the Private Rhino Owners Association, spoke to eNCA and highlighted the potential benefits of legalising the rhino horn trade. “The most important outcome is that we get to save rhinos’ lives,” Jones stated. “The second aspect is that through this, instead of the financial benefit going to the criminals, that revenue comes back to conservation.”
Jones further emphasised the positive impact on the economy, envisioning an R80 billion boost. He explained that the revenue wouldn’t solely benefit private reserves but would also contribute around R50 billion to the government through taxes and the sale of assets.
Read more on the matter:
Find more news on Africa News 24
Poaching-weary South Africa considers legalising rhino horn trade
However, the proposal for legalising the rhino horn trade is met with caution from environmentalists and researchers. The Private Rhino Owners Association acknowledges the need for strict regulation, fearing that even a small percentage of the legal market involving illegal horns could pose a threat to the remaining rhino population.
Research indicates that private landholders currently conserve over half of South Africa’s white rhinos, with communities protecting an additional 1% of the population. The potential increase in illegal supply when legalising international rhino horn trade remains a significant concern.
While the economic benefits are touted as a potential game-changer, the debate over legalising the rhino horn trade continues, balancing economic interests with the imperative to protect and preserve endangered species.
