The DA calls on the ANC government to explain the rationale behind allowing extensive underwater military explosions so close to the world-renowned Boulders Beach in Cape Town, which provides sanctuary for the endangered African Penguin. The African Penguin is currently under severe threat with experts predicting that the species could go extinct by 2035.
The sanctuary is one of South Africa’s most popular tourist hotspots and forms an important part of Cape Town’s history and culture. Sadly, the ANC government does not see any problem with allowing these explosions to continue, while endangering marine life.
We echo calls from the DA-led City of Cape Town for the close monitoring of the military underwater explosions and the impact on African Penguins and other local sea life. Whilst the DA-led City and Province share the concerns around the African Penguin colony, the jurisdiction for allowing underwater military explosions off our coast lies with the ANC-led National Government.
We have seen the devastating impact of ANC disregard for the African Penguin in Gqeberha where the colony on St Croix Island has been decimated due in part to poorly regulated activities in the harbour. We cannot allow a repeat in Cape Town.
The DA will be writing to the chairperson of the committee on Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment to request an urgent presentation from the Department of Defence and Military Veterans and SANParks on the explosions. The most sensible solution, if these activities are essential, would be for them to be moved to an area that does not pose a risk to the African Penguin and other vulnerable sea life.
Be part of the mission to rescue South Africa, get help registering to vote at check.da.org.za