The baboon problem in the Overstrand seems to be bigger than imagined.
The Hermanus Baboon Action Group (HBAG) met with Mayor Annelie Rabie, Municipal Manager Dean O’Neill and councillors for Ward 3 of Overstrand Municipality (OM) on Monday 4 November.
A number of significant concerns were expressed by HBAG on behalf of the baboon-affected community of Hermanus East. In response, the following was confirmed: . OM has managed to secure sufficient funding to extend the Baboon Management Programme (BMP) in Hermanus East until the end of December. . OM is unable to confirm whether the BMP would be extended beyond this period.. OM is in ongoing discussions with Cape Nature and Minister Anton Bredell, the MEC of Local Government and the Environment.
“Other questions remain unanswered at this time and we are concerned that without an extension of the current mandate to appoint a service provider to manage baboons in the urban area, Overstrand will not be in a position to continue the BMP after December,” said Pat Redford, chairperson of the HBAG. “Whilst it is a relief for affected communities in Hermanus East, and the monitors themselves to know that they will remain on duty until the end of December, it is unfortunate that the future of a successful BMP remains uncertain in the long term.”
She urged residents to continue to secure their refuse 24/7. “Remove bird feeders and sugar water bottles from your gardens, and manage your immediate environment to ensure there are no attractants which may encourage baboons to visit your property,” she said.
“Please emphasise to all staff, family members, guests and property management companies who are present on your property during December, to adhere strictly to the refuse bylaw, which requires that all refuse bins are baboon proofed and secured 24 / 7, and that no exposed refuse bags are to be left on sidewalks in any of the baboon-affected areas of Hermanus East. Make use of the convenient drop-off at Voëlklip, open seven days a week.”. The next Ward 3 Public Meeting is on 26 November at 18:00 at the Fernkloof Hall.
