The Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA) has initiated the process to prepare for the 17th Conference of Parties (CoP17) to CITES, which will be held in Johannesburg, South Africa from 24 September to 5 October 2016.

The Department wishes to invite interested parties to register for participation in the preparation process for CITES CoP17, and to submit draft proposals for consideration by the National Scientific and Management Authority. Draft proposals must be based on Resolution Conf 9.24 of CITES which is the criteria for the Amendment of Appendices I and II, which governs the status and the impact trade has on such species.

It is important to note that the Department established the Committee of Inquiry to assist with preparations for CITES CoP17 in terms of rhino and elephant matters and therefore possible proposals pertaining to rhino & elephant matters will be dealt with by that Committee of Inquiry. The Department will coordinate and facilitate the consultation process to discuss proposal relating to other species.

The Department will convene a consultation meeting as soon as all stakeholders are registered and proposals have been received.

Interested parties are requested to send their personal details including name, address and contact details for registration, as well as any draft proposals to Mr Mpho Tjiane on email MTjiane@environment.gov.za, on or before 15 September 2015. Mr Tjiane can also be contacted on 012 399 9596 for any enquiries.

To access CITES Resolution Conf 9.24, click on:  https://www.cites.org/eng/res/09/09-24R16.php


For more information contact Albi Modise on 083 490 2871

ISSUED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL AFFAIRS