It has been a harrowing 70 days for lone baboon Kataza, but thankfully he will finally be allowed to return to his troop and back to the life he knew.
Cape Town, South Africa (09 November 2020) – Just over 70 days ago, the City of Cape Town made the call to remove Kataza, the head of his troop, and relocate him away from his family. The call was made with very little concern for Kataza’s wellbeing, and it left thousands of people angered by the inhumane isolation he has had to endure.
When challenged as to why the baboon was removed from his home, the city gave several reasons. Thankfully, people got organised, and a legal team was established by Ryno Engelbrecht to challenge the City. He launched a court application to have Kataza returned to his natal troop.
While they worked on fighting the city’s decision, Kataza was left to roam the streets of Tokai, away from the forest, placing himself in constant danger of being hit by a car. It was then that a group of volunteers came together to stand by him day and night to ensure his safety. These volunteers were known as “Angels”.
While under the protection of the volunteers, it became evident that the move was having a detrimental effect on Kataza’s well-being. He was not foraging for food correctly and instead fed from bins that were not baboon-proofed. He was also shunned from the surrounding baboon troops, meaning he slept alone and even got badly bloodied and beaten.
The City requested a meeting with Ryno’s legal team this past Friday and then issued a letter stating that baboon management would be taken over by the CapeNature.
CapeNature has committed to overseeing the return of Kataza to his home troop in Slangkop, Kommetjie and will ensure that proper baboon management is a key focus in the future.
Kataza will be returned following the approved guidelines for baboon management. They hope to get him home as soon as possible. He will be captured, checked over by the vet and given any medical care needed before reintegrating with his troop.
CapeNature and an independent animal welfare organisation will be requested to monitor his capture and release. They ask that the public give them the space needed to make this a smooth reintegration.
Kataza will be given a clean slate from now on and any transgressions of his past, cannot determine the actions of his future. The City is giving him a fair chance and ask that others do too. He will be given a grace period and opportunity to spend time within the Slangkop troop home range.
You can read in detail, all the role-players of this long-awaited victory here. The Baboon Matters Trust are answering any queries the public have on that post.
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