In a controversy that has ignited debate over wildlife management and public participation, the City of Cape Town’s plan to capture and confine two troops of wild Cape Peninsula baboons has drawn strong objections from conservationists and animal welfare groups.

Animal Survival International (ASI) has raised alarm over what it sees as legal intimidation against campaigners who have publicly opposed the proposed enclosure.

The issue escalated after a member of the Cape Point Baboon Trust was reportedly served with a cease-and-desist letter by lawyers representing the private landowner where the enclosure is planned.

Luke Barritt, campaign director at ASI, warned that the move sets a dangerous turning point in conservation decision-making, arguing that public participation and scientific debate are being suppressed.

“This is not just about baboons,” he said.

“This is about the right of communities, scientists and civil society to speak openly when wildlife and public resources are at stake. We cannot allow the decision makers to silence people who have the best interests of animals at heart.”

The Cape Peninsula Baboon Management Joint Task Team (CPBMJTT), which includes representatives from CapeNature, SANParks, and the City of Cape Town, confirmed that no legal threats are being used to suppress public engagement.

“The entire process around the Action Plan has been and remains open and transparent,” the Task Team said.

The proposed Action Plan was submitted to an independent expert panel in July 2025 for review and comment and shared with the Cape Peninsula Baboon Advisory Group before its approval in November 2025. The Task Team stressed that it cannot comment on litigation pursued by private individuals or organisations.

The relocation plan, which involves moving two baboon troops to a purpose-built sanctuary, is being carefully planned.

“No relocation of either troop will occur until full compliance with all legislative requirements has been achieved and the purpose-built sanctuary is complete,” the Task Team said.

Each troop will reside in its own enclosure designed to exceed Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries standards, providing more than the minimum 1.5 hectares per 20 adult baboons.

Concerns have also been raised about whether the proposed enclosure aligns with the Cape Peninsula Baboon Strategic Management Plan, which prioritises coexistence-based strategies, fencing, and waste management over extreme containment.

Biologist Savannah Anderson stressed the need for principled, long-term decision-making. “Conservation measures are never easy to implement. However, we must follow the line of action that truly serves the long-term interests of the baboons and the people who live alongside them. That is the only path to sustainability for future generations,” she said.

The CPBMJTT highlighted that the management of the Cape Peninsula Chacma baboon population is a shared responsibility, and the planning process has focused on balancing wildlife welfare, public safety, and community engagement.

“What is best for the Peninsula baboon population is also best for people,” they said. The Action Plan, which outlines these measures, is publicly available. ASI and the Cape Point Baboon Trust continue to advocate for transparency and community involvement. “This moment calls for leadership, not intimidation,” the organisation said.

“Priorities must be reframed back to the baboons and the broader community and away from private entities and expedient solutions.”

In a show of public support and awareness, the Cape Point Baboon Trust will host Boogie for Baboons, a fundraising and awareness event on Sunday 25 January at the Brass Bell in Kalk Bay.

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