The Save Our Seas Foundation extends our deepest condolences following this tragic incident. Today’s shark fatality leaves us all struggling for answers. Beach safety in Cape Town is a priority issue for the Save Our Seas Foundation and we are committed to open, honest and affirmative cooperation with local communities to make beach-going as safe as possible. These qualities are most important at times of uncertainty and loss. Those affected by this tragedy as well as the whole community deserve a transparent review of this incident and we are confident that this will take place. There is a delicate and sometimes dangerous balance in sharing the ocean with sharks. We continue to promote education and awareness as essential elements of both beach safety and shark conservation. Again, this is a day of mourning and our hearts go out for this tragic loss of life.
Previous statements (4 April and 12 April) from the Save Our Seas Foundation regarding recent research activities are included below:
April 12: Save Our Seas Foundation is not involved in the activities of Ocearch in False Bay. Any activity with white sharks in the waters off of Cape Town should respect the delicate balance between humans and sharks. The best thing for shark conservation is safe beaches and bathers and it is important to work in these shared spaces with great care.
April 4: Today, the Save Our Seas Foundation issued a statement highlighting the vital role of local community awareness of shark research. The statement reads, “Excellent work is being done to include local communities in the important work of shark conservation, yet more can be done to ensure that there is transparency within local communities. Our success today and tomorrow rests on the partnership between local stakeholders, conservationists and scientists. One of the goals of the Save Our Seas Foundation is to promote global standards for best practices in ‘research and respect’ for the generous hospitability of local residents. We would encourage this affirmative and transparent standard among all parties, including film crews and private operators. As a Foundation, we are proud to support research around the world that tags, tracks and educates about sharks, skates, rays, and turtles through community outreach. Locally in Cape Town, awareness of white shark research and tagging is important to help make beaches safer, increase conservation science and build lasting bonds with communities. Any activity with white sharks in the waters off of Cape Town should respect the delicate balance between humans and sharks. The best thing for shark conservation is safe beaches and bathers and it is important to work in these shared spaces with great care.