Dear Editor
The DA expresses our deep concern and condemnation of the distressing conditions endured by the 19 000 cattle on board the Al Kuwait live export vessel currently docked in Cape Town. The unbearable smell emanating from the vessel, attributed to a buildup of faeces and ammonia, underscores the urgent need for intervention to address the welfare of these animals.
We commend the swift action taken by the National Council of Societies for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (NSPCA) and the Cape of Good Hope SPCA in leading the fight against the export of live animals by sea. Their dedication to ensuring the welfare of these animals is commendable, and we extend our gratitude to the Sea Border SAPS for their assistance in granting access to the vessel.
The DA acknowledges the court order obtained by the Cape of Good Hope SPCA, allowing them to inspect the vessel and assess the conditions of the animals on board. The ongoing inspection, which began yesterday, is crucial in addressing the deplorable conditions faced by the cattle during their journey from Brazil to the Middle East.
Live export, as evidenced by this situation, exposes animals to perilous conditions such as dangerous levels of ammonia, rough seas, extreme heat stress, injuries, dirty environments, exhaustion, and even death. The cramped conditions also pose a significant risk for the rapid spread of diseases. We stand united in our commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of these animals.
As the inspection continues until the ship’s departure on Wednesday, February 21, 2024, we urge all relevant authorities to collaborate in addressing concerns related to inadequate hygiene and veterinary care.
Our party stands united in advocating for the humane treatment of animals and will closely monitor the situation to ensure that swift and effective measures are implemented to safeguard the welfare of the cattle on board the Al Kuwait live export vessel.
Regards
Noko Masipa MP
DA Shadow Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development
Scarlet Mary
A new teacher enters a classroom full of students.
The teacher stands at the front of the room and greets the students, \”Good morning, class.\”
None of the students say anything. One boy at the back of the classroom stands up, \”Good morning, teacher.\”
Puzzled, the teacher carries on. The following morning, the same thing happens. Day after day goes by, and it\’s the same routine.
One morning after greeting the class and the same student standing and greeting, the teacher has had enough, \”Why is it, that every time I walk in and greet the entire room, only you stand up and greet me?\”
In the most broken English, the boy replies, \”Because I are the only one here, what\’s name are Klass\”
Fire Bite
Hayibo! – wow! [Hai-bo] Derived from the Zulu word meaning “definitely not!” This word is usually expressed on its own, at the start or end of a sentence when something seems amazing.Example: “Hayibo! Ha! Ha! I can’t believe that!”