GreenLaw Foundation empowers CapeNature in marine criminal law training
The GreenLaw Foundation successfully hosted a three-day mock criminal trial training program for CapeNature and other state officials, who could be called as state witnesses, focusing on marine-related biodiversity criminal cases. The programme was held at the Betty’s Bay Boat Club, Stoney Point, from 17 to 19 February 2026. This initiative equipped 21 delegates with essential courtroom skills to strengthen prosecutions and protect South Africa's Marine Protected Areas (MPA).
Established in 2018, the GreenLaw Foundation leverages over 70 years of expertise from its directors, Kevin Pretorius and Johann Vermeulen, who have also worked with global organisations such as UNODC, FAO, CITES, and others. The course emphasised interpersonal communication, confidence as a state witness, and insights into South Africa's legal system through realistic simulations based on the Betty’s Bay Marine Protected Area. Expert presenters included retired Chief Prosecutor Mrs Amy Kistnasamy (40 years' experience), practising attorney and ex prosecutor Kevin Pretorius (38 years' litigation), and experienced conservationist Johann Vermeulen (37 years’ experience).
Post-training assessments showed a marked overall increase in participants' knowledge and confidence in testimony delivery. Delegates gained practical experience in statement writing, evidence presentation, and handling pressure as a witness in a criminal trial court, which led to improved conviction rates and deterrence of marine offences. Feedback highlighted the programme's impact, with comments like “[it] boosted my confidence" and "[it] should be mandatory for FCOs and EMIs."
The course was made possible through the support of the Shark Conservation Fund, a sponsored project of Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors. The venue and catering were supplied by local partners, On the Edge Restaurant, benefitting the Mooi Uitsig Community Trust and the Betty’s Bay Boat Club. The training reinforces a commitment to enhancing environmental enforcement. GreenLaw calls on policymakers and stakeholders to increase investment and collaborative action to safeguard marine biodiversity amid rising threats.
Related News
Wildfires intensify as climate shifts, CapeNature warns in emergency podcast series
CapeNature has released a special series of its acclaimed Green Noise podcast, offering an urgent and deeply human perspective on South Africa’s recent wildfire season. The series has a particular focus on the devastating fires in the Cederberg Wilderness and changing weather patterns. The fire in the Cederberg Wilderness, which ignited on 22 December 2025 along Uitkyk Pass
Western Cape to benefit from CapeNature’s 2026 Greening Initiative
CapeNature is launching a fun and engaging greening competition for schools and communities across the Western Cape. The competition will start on 13 April 2026 to coincide with International Plant Appreciation Day and will run until 15 May 2026. The initiative aims to inspire learners and community members to actively participate in protecting the environment.
A follow up: The potential impacts of Red Swamp crayfish in Western Cape waters
Since first being found in the canal systems of lower Olifants River in 2022 by CapeNature officials, invasive Red Swamp Crayfish (Procambarus clarkii) are being found further afield in the Western Cape at an alarming rate. This freshwater species is globally recognised as a seriously damaging invasive species.
Over 43 000 Cape Gannets on Lambert’s Bay Bird Island this breeding season
Bird Island is alive with the sounds and spectacle of seabirds, with an estimated over 43 000 Cape Gannets currently making the island their home this breeding season. The thriving colony reinforces Bird Island, Lambert’s Bay, as one of South Africa’s most important gannet breeding sites and highlights the impact of ongoing marine conservation work.
Water Week: Protecting Our Most Precious Resource
Water is fundamental to life and essential to our daily wellbeing. While this may seem widely understood, it remains important to continually remind ourselves of the value of this finite resource. Although approximately 70% of the Earth’s surface is covered by water, only about 2.5% of it is freshwater available to sustain ecosystems and human needs.
New SASS accreditor supports river biomonitoring in the Western Cape
CapeNature continues to strengthen its role in freshwater conservation through the expertise of its staff, with freshwater ecologist Jeanne Gouws receiving her South African Scoring System (SASS) accreditation as an accreditor. Having successfully passed every three-yearly assessment since 2007, she is now the official Western Cape SASS accreditor.