Published in the Weekend Argus/IOL, 31 July 2025
In a powerful mobilisation against the proposed live animal export regulations announced by the Department of Agriculture (DoA) on 11 July, Stop Live Export South Africa (SLESA) and Compassion in World Farming (CIWF) are calling on citizens to make their voices heard.
They said these draft regulations threaten to continue the controversial practice of transporting live animals by sea, which SLESA categorically condemned it as unjust, inhumane, and economically misguided.
Founded in February 2024, SLESA is a coalition of South Africans including social justice and animal welfare organisations committed to the abolition of live animal exports. With support from over 50 groups and a growing number of individual advocates, the organization focuses on education and advocacy to combat the suffering inflicted on animals through this trade.
An SLESA spokesperson asserted the urgency for public involvement, stating: ‘These regulations cannot be passed without scrutiny. We need a significant, united public response to ensure a rigorous consultation process – one that includes the South African public and all animal welfare organisations. We only have until 25 August to submit objections. The time to act is now.’
📣📣📣 SPEAK UP AGAINST LIVE EXPORT
Want to submit your comments on the draft regulations? Download the documents below to get started:
To submit your comments on the draft regulations, email VPH@dalrrd.gov.za and copy RegulationsComments@stopliveexport.co.za. Please retain a copy of your submission for reference.
For those who do not wish to submit detailed comments but simply wish to demand a ban, sign the campaign to stop live exports at Dear South Africa platform.
Note: The deadline for submissions is 12pm on 25 August 2025.
👉 DOWNLOAD THE FULL MEDIA RELEASE [PDF]
To join the movement and stay informed:
- Sign the Petition to ban live export by sea
- Facebook: Stop Live Export SA
- Instagram: @stoplxsa
- Website: stopliveexport.co.za
- Subscribe to the Stop Live Export SA newsletter
