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
How Waste Affects Biodiversity and What We Can Do About It
Waste is more than an eyesore. Littered streets, polluted rivers and overflowing landfills are visible signs of a much wider environmental problem. Every year, people generate large volumes of waste, yet much of it is not managed effectively. In South Africa, more than 60% of waste has been reported as ending up in landfills. With service-delivery challenges and many major landfill sites approaching capacity, the pressure on communities and natural ecosystems continues to grow. Both terrestrial and aquatic biodiversity carry much of the impact.
Roll-out of baboon-proof bins to start as northern fence gets under way
The Cape Peninsula Baboon Management Joint Task Team is pleased to announce key developments related to the practical implementation of the approved Cape Peninsula Baboon Strategic Management Plan (CPBSMP). The Action Plan that guides the practical implementation of the CPBSMP was approved by SANParks, CapeNature, and the City of Cape Town in November 2025.
Explore the Western Cape for free this Access Week – Nature is for Everyone
A week of free access to some of the Western Cape’s most spectacular natural spaces is on offer this September, as CapeNature opens the gates to selected nature reserves for its 12th annual Access Week. Taking place from 19–25 September 2026 under the theme “Nature is for Everyone”, Access Week invites individuals, families and communities to explore participating reserves without paying a conservation entry fee.
CapeNature extends cashless payments to more nature reserves
Building on the success of its initial rollout, CapeNature will extend its cashless payment system to a further five nature reserves in September 2026, in line with its ongoing commitment to service excellence, sustainability and safety. Following the successful transition to cashless payments at Robberg, Keurbooms, Stony Point, Bird Island and Walker Bay nature reserves earlier this year, CapeNature will expand the cashless payment system to reach more visitors across the Western Cape.
CapeNature updates fees for commercial filming across its reserves
From fynbos-covered mountains and indigenous forests to rugged coastlines and Marine Protected Areas, CapeNature’s reserves have long provided a diverse backdrop for local and international film and television productions. From 1 October 2026, CapeNature is updating its commercial filming tariff structure to better align fees with the scale of productions and the demands they place on protected area management.
Western Cape communities called to join the 2026 #DontBeTrashy Drive
CapeNature in collaboration with the Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning is calling on communities, schools, businesses and visitors across the Western Cape to take part in the annual #DontBeTrashy Drive, running from 1—30 September 2026. The month-long campaign aims to reduce waste, protect biodiversity and raise public awareness about the growing impact of pollution on the Province’s land, rivers