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EmailIphone Application    Posted: 28th August 2013
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Whale shark attraction rejected

Animal conservationists celebrate Kenya's decision

A whale shark tourist attraction has been officially rejected by the Government of Kenya, following concerns from various animal welfare activators.

The National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA) of Kenya judged that the proposal for an artificial marine enclosure situated off the southern coast should be denied.

Its decision was made on the grounds that it would deny whale sharks their right to exist in their natural habitat, it would be in contravention of Kenya's 1962 Animal Cruelty Act and it fails to recognise that the whale shark tourism can be promoted in the wild.

NEMA also made it clear that the project, which would create an artificial marine enclosure stocked with wild-caught specimens of the world's largest fish, would not adequately engage with local communities.

Aaron Nicholas, conservation manager for Born Free Foundation, said that the charity has been working with regional marine scientists, local marine charities and other campaigners to mount a lobby against the Seaquarium scheme.

In February, the foundation presented its concerns at a public hearing.

"[We lobbied] particularly on the grounds that it is unethical to incarcerate these magnificent creatures and that the venture undermined Kenya's rich legacy of conserving and promoting wildlife conservation and tourism in the wild," he said.

The foundation also highlighted that whale sharks are an internationally important migratory species that plays a key role in the marine ecosystem.

Will Travers, CEO of Born Free, commented: "We are determined to support actions that protect whale sharks, while ensuring that benefits are shared with local communities.

"We plan to fund the training of boat skippers and crew in Tanzania later this year, to ensure that they understand and adhere to regulations concerning whale shark tourist viewing. We hope that we can extend this important initiative to Kenyan waters as part of a regional approach to whale shark conservation."

Image courtesy of Born Free Foundation

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FIVP publishes CMA Compliance Checklist

News Story 1
 FIVP has published a CMA Compliance Checklist to support independent practices with the Market Investigation Order.

The document includes deadlines for small and large businesses, with tick boxes for each of the tasks. The organisation also invites practices to contact them for support with requirements.

Rita Dingwall, FIVP chair, said: FIVP appreciates that navigating the new CMA requirements can feel daunting. We hope this checklist will make things a little easier, helping independent practices work through what is required with confidence. 

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News Shorts
APHA launches free virtual work experience programme

The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), in collaboration with Springpod, has launched a free virtual work experience programme, giving young people across the UK the chance to explore careers dedicated to protecting animal and plant health.

The on-demand programme offers a unique insight into career opportunities within APHA, showcasing how students can contribute to tackling some of the UK's most critical biosecurity and environmental challenges.

Designed for students aged 13 and over, the course includes more than 10 hours of engaging content featuring real-life industry insights, scenario-based challenges, and practical guidance on applying for jobs. To register for the course, visit the APHA website.