The harmonisation of legislation between South Africa and Mozambique : towards a legally binding instrument in the fight against rhino poaching

Abstract

South Africa and Mozambique have experienced an alarming increase in rhino poaching incidents over the past recent years, threatening the survival of the rhino species. People have always considered living and non-living species as tradable products to be used purely for economic gain, and this has had a negative impact on biodiversity. This crime against wildlife is ranked in the same level as the crime of human trafficking and illicit drug trade and is being classified as organised in nature. The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) banned international trade on endangered species like the rhinoceros. South Africa and Mozambique each have legislation available to protect wild life and the environment. Additionally, there is the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park which is a collaborative effort between South Africa, Mozambique and Zimbabwe to protect biodiversity within their borders. Furthermore, South Africa and Mozambique have signed a Memorandum of Understanding aimed at working together to eliminate the scourge of rhino poaching that has occurred mostly at the border shared by both countries in Kruger the National Park. With all the legislation available, there is still continuous reports of rhino poaching incidents. The question is whether the said legislation is effective in eliminating the crisis of rhino poaching. This is because solutions to rhino poaching require a multifaceted approach which is already being implemented to ensure the survival of the rhino species. Hence the need for the harmonisation of legislation between South Africa and Mozambique.