A six-week workshop aimed at improving the relationship between locals and baboons is under way in Plettenberg Bay.
The initiative is led by Miila Kauppinen, a PhD candidate from Wageningen University & Research in the Netherlands, who is conducting research on human-baboon conflict and coexistence in SA.
The workshops provide a platform for community members, organisations and local leaders to engage in open discussions on baboon management.
Participants are also gaining skills in communication, leadership and conflict mediation to help address differing views on human-baboon interactions.
“With increasing biodiversity loss and the impacts of climate and landscape change, humans need to take action to move towards a more regenerative society,” Kauppinen said.
“If we can learn to coexist with baboons, a species that locals have lived alongside for generations, perhaps we can better coexist with other species that are increasingly endangered.
“Baboons and all wildlife are part of the precious web of life that supports us.”
The workshop also focuses on understanding the complexities of human-baboon coexistence in the urban-rural interface and encourages participants to develop community plans to improve these interactions.
In January 2024 Kauppinen, along with Dr Ruth Kansky from Stellenbosch University and two Dutch supervisors, conducted a survey with residents in the Bitou municipality to explore human-baboon interactions.
While the survey did not cover the entire municipality, it revealed that many residents valued the region’s biodiversity and wished to learn more about local wildlife, including baboons.
Most respondents, however, preferred that baboons remained outside densely populated residential areas.
In areas such as Nature’s Valley and Plett South, appointed baboon monitors have helped reduce conflicts, allowing locals to better appreciate the presence of baboons in their natural habitats.
Kauppinen said that initiatives allowing wildlife to thrive while maintaining community appreciation contributed to preserving Plettenberg Bay as a nature-focused coastal town — a factor that also benefited tourism.
“Human management is crucial in mitigating conflicts with baboons,” Kauppinen said.
“Engaging estate agents, newcomers and diverse stakeholders early on can prevent potential issues. During the workshop, we aim to explore how to enhance accountability and co-operation in these efforts.”
The workshops, which started on Tuesday, will run once a week from 9am to 1pm until November 30 at the Piesang Valley Community Town Hall and other venues in The Crags and Nature’s Valley.
A Saturday option is available for those unable to attend on weekdays.
