Donkeys’ ears are often cropped as a way for their owners to identify the animals. (Photo: KDS)
Warning: The post contains content that may upset some readers.
The Karoo Donkey Sanctuary (KDS) says its fight to put an end to the commercial slaughter of donkeys is now in a decisive phase. The organization also made an urgent appeal to people to support its campaign on this.
Jonno Sherwin, founder and CEO of KDS, is a great campaigner for the well-being of donkeys and has repeatedly pleaded for an end to the slaughter of the animals for the international trade in donkey skins. However, the shelter warns that without financial support, it will be difficult to sustain this work.
“Every investigation, every submission to the government, every meeting with stakeholders, every kilometer traveled and every effort to expose cruelty and protect South Africa’s donkeys is funded with our own limited resources,” says Sherwin.
“Our bank account is empty and we urgently need help to continue the work.
In recent months, Sherwin has repeatedly corresponded with the government, including the minister of agriculture, so that South Africa can align itself with the African Union’s 15-year-long moratorium on the slaughter of donkeys for their skin and body parts.
Member states adopted the moratorium in recognition of the growing threat the donkey skin trade poses to donkey populations, rural jobs and animal welfare across the continent.
Sherwin says that rather than acting in accordance with the moratorium, South Africa has adopted what is described as the so-called “controlled export model” which enables the annual legal slaughter of up to 10,500 donkeys for their hides.
Also read: Look | Donkey heaven where abused long ears can thrive
The shelter warns that South Africa’s donkey population has dropped significantly. (Photo: KDS)
The donkey shelter has sent several formal letters to the minister and the department of agriculture, outlining serious concerns and a plea for intervention. However, the shelter has still not received any significant feedback from the government.
The shelter also warns that South Africa’s donkey population has dropped significantly over the past few years, while the demand for donkey skins is increasing. Donkeys, which once formed an integral part of rural communities across large parts of the country, are now becoming increasingly rare. There is also growing concern about the theft, illegal slaughter and unsustainable exploitation of the animals.
Investigations by the KDS indicate worrying welfare issues at some licensed donkey slaughterhouses and camps.
South Africa is already experiencing the consequences of the trade in donkey skins. The shelter therefore warns that the government’s continued lack of action is accelerating the decline of a species that has supported local communities for generations.
“This is no longer just an animal welfare issue. It’s a conservation issue. It’s about income. It’s an ethical issue.
“South Africa’s donkey population has already experienced a significant decline – and yet the slaughter continues.
“Every day without intervention puts more animals at risk.”
Sherwin says remarkable progress has already been made, and that people can help to be a voice for those who cannot speak for themselves. The KDS appealed to everyone, from animal lovers to conservationists and concerned citizens, to help continue its work.
Donations will be used directly for –
- the rescue, feeding, veterinary care and lifelong protection of donkeys already at the shelter;
- investigations into donkey welfare, transport and slaughter practices;
- raising awareness and engagement with government, policy makers and regulatory authorities;
- public awareness campaigns and educational initiatives;
- efforts to secure better legal protection for donkeys in South Africa; and
- national and international cooperation aimed at ending the donkey skin trade.
“With the support of the public, we can ensure that future generations inherit a South Africa where donkeys are protected, respected and valued and not slaughtered for their skins.”
- For more information visit the Karoo Donkey Sanctuary’s Facebook page.