IWMC.org - 2nd Symposium - Issues of Relevance

Culling of Seals in Namibia: A Conservation Necessity B. J. van Zyl Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resource, Namibia

Fisheries interactions. Although the government policy on utilization of marine resources call for sustainable harvests, seals are perceived by the fishing community as being a threat to fish stocks and in competition with commercial fisheries. Research on the potential impact of seals on fish stocks and fisheries has been initiated through a programme monitoring changes in seal diet (using scat analysis), and studies of feeding behaviour (VHF and satellite telemetry). However, a review of the available data on diet and seal predation estimates, as ell as recommendations for future research in this field, are needed in order to evaluate seal management strategies and the potential effects of changes in seal harvesting policies on the sealing industry, the fish stocks and the fishing industry.

Sealing methods. Sealing methods are currently regulated through the Sea Birds and Seals Protection Act (Republic of South Africa, Act No. 46 of 1973, amended in 1985) and the Sealing Regulations (1976). Although this legislation is still in force in Namibia, several amendments have been called for by the industry. Due to changes in sealing practices and in public opinion, sealing methods have become a contentious issue. In addition, Namibia is in the process of incorporating seabirds and seals into the revised fisheries act.

The Current Socio-Economic Contribution of the Seal Industry. When the current concessionaires became involved in sealing in 1990, the Industry was non-existent. No markets existed for any of the raw products other than the male genitals. No information on harvesting techniques, products or markets was available. The infrastructure was in a very poor state. The challenge of the new regulations - … regarding the use of the whole seal carcass was met and new products, markets and techniques were developed. The Industry has already created 162 job opportunities. The average family size in Namibia consists of 6 people, and therefore approximately 970 people are currently dependent on the sealing industry for their day-to-day survival.

Products: MEAT: Carcass meal. High protein animal fodder. Canned meat as well as dried meat for human consumption awaiting health clearance.

SEAL OIL: Seal oil as a supplement to animal fodder. Omega 3 oil for human consumption already successfully marketed in Namibia and the RSA and soon to be exported to Europe. Seal oil-based skin ointment.

SKINS: Raw, salted pup skins with rising demand world-wide The bull skins are processed in the RSA into shoe leather..

CURIOS: Seal skins are processed locally and used in the manufacturing of handbags, wallets etc Seal teeth and whiskers are used in manufacturing of jewellery in Namibia and the RSA.

MALE GENITALS: Exported to the east. The importance of this product is diminishing because of the vast world-wide supply.

TOURISM: Tourist facilities were developed at Cape Cross. These include a restaurant, museum, curio shop) etc.

Anti-sustainable use NGO's. The Ministry of Fisheries had to deal with IFAW (International Fund for Animal Welfare) in the past pertaining to the issue of seal culling. The Ministry has offered IFAW the opportunity to "buy-out" the two right holders on conditions:

a. they should pay the annual levies based on the annual TAC, and

b. they must establish a trust fund to pay the workers who will lose their jobs a pension.

IWMC World Conservation Trust