KARIEGA – Although SPCA Uitenhage has been given notice by the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM) to vacate by 20 February 2026 a facility it has occupied for nearly six decades, municipal officials have assured that no animals will be euthanised owing to space constraints.
Member of the Mayoral Committee for Public Health, Thsonono Buyeye, confirmed that the animals currently housed at the pound may remain under the care of the municipality’s newly appointed animal pound service provider should the SPCA not have alternative placement.
“There is a service provider on site who has responsibility for the welfare of animals in our city,” Buyeye said. “There’s enough space for the animals and there will be enough care for them. There is no reason for animals to be put down on the basis of lack of space when space is available at the pound.”
In a statement, SPCA Uitenhage said it currently has 60 animals in its care and raised concerns about their future following the termination of its contract. The organisation said it was concerned about what would happen to the animals once it vacates the premises.
Buyeye, however, emphasised that the new service provider is fully qualified and capable of caring for the animals. He confirmed that Busy Bee has been appointed as the municipality’s new pound service provider.
“The service provider is very experienced, even internationally,” Buyeye said. “He has worked in Namibia, Zimbabwe, Cape Town and Port Alfred. He has also worked for the Department of Agriculture in the Eastern Cape as a chief state veterinarian and currently looks after horses at the Arlington Race Course. He knows his business.”
Buyeye added that a site veterinarian will be stationed at the facility to ensure adequate animal care.
Addressing speculation surrounding the municipality’s decision not to renew its contract with SPCA Uitenhage, Buyeye said the municipality was under no obligation to do so, citing a formal tender process.
“Regarding the bidding process, the SPCA did not submit a bid, and it would be illegal to award a tender to an organisation that did not participate,” Buyeye said. “Busy Bee was one of the service providers that did bid.”
Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality has since officially welcomed its new animal service provider, whilst expressing appreciation for the long-standing service rendered by the previous provider.
In a statement, it stated that the incoming provider is expected to assume responsibilities immediately, particularly in addressing the growing problem of stray animals, including dogs and cattle, across the metro. “Areas such as Motherwell have been identified as high priority, where roaming animals have caused damage to property, including graves and tombstones, and pose potential health risks through disease transmission,” said the statement.
The municipality said its primary objective remains the protection of residents through effective control of stray animals and prompt responses to public complaints.
