Background
The present critical situation of many African wildlife species is mainly due to habitat destruction & habitat loss as a result of the massive global human population explosion - forcing previously free roaming wildlife species into either captivity or extinction.
This urgent conservation challenge opened the door to the establishment of numerous captive wildlife facilities throughout southern Africa, many of which mainly sustain themselves through ecotourism.
In order to compete in a very demanding global tourism environment, the South African captive wildlife industry must set an industry standard of ethical and responsible wildlife tourism for the region. Hence, SAWTA was established by the industry to provide and help implement such an industry standard FOR the industry.
Captive Wildlife Tourism Industry
REALITY: Extensive habitat loss forces previously free-roaming wildlife into Captivity or Extinction
SA Wildlife Tourism Association
The South African Wildlife Tourism Association (SAWTA) strives to improve the lives of people and wildlife in the region through the implementation and support of an Ethical & Responible Wildlife Tourism standard for the SA wildlife tourism industry. SAWTA offers membership, certification and accreditaion programmes for businesses, venues and ventures associated specifically with the wildlife tourism industry in South Africa.
Our Vision
To provide and support an Ethical & Responsible Wildlife Tourism Standard for wildlife tourism providers in South Africa through official certification & accreditation that will benefit both the people and wildlife in the region.
"SA wildlife tourism standards for the industry by the industry"
Our Mission
To provide and implement an Ethical & Responsible Wildlife Tourism standard for the wildlife industry in South Africa that will not only support the stakeholfers in the wildlife tourism industry but will contribute positively to the conservation and survival of Africa's wildlife.
Our Objectives
Industry Standard
Build regional capacity to improve the lives of people and wildlife in the region through the setting & implementation of an Ethical & Responsible Wildlife Tourism Standard.
Certification & Accreditation
Facilitate and support an Ethical & Responsible Wildlife Tourism Standard for best practise wildlife tourism providers in South Africa through official SAWTA certification & accreditation.
Knowledge & Education
Generate knowledge and global understanding of Ethical & Responsible Wildlife Tourism, especially with regard to captive wildlife tourism facilities and destinations in South Africa.
Interest of members
Represent the interests of members and assist in facilitating the implementation of relevant actions/projects that will help to achieve ethical & responsible wildlife tourism in the region.