Regarding Kabul Zoo

CWI is a proud supporting member of the Asia for Animals Coalition.

This morning they sent all members an email with details regarding the situation at Kabul Zoo. We are providing the full text of that email here to stop the spread of misinformation.

Please know that we have no additional details, and we are not actively engaged in this situation. Any other updates will also be provided here and in our social media.

WHAT IS THE SITUATION AT KABUL ZOO?

The zoo is still in operation, and the staff continue to care for the animals the best they can under the circumstances.

The zoo is currently not in any immediate danger.

They have supplies of food and water and are in the process of acquiring further supplies..

ARE THERE CONCERNS ABOUT THE ANIMALS?

Given that the situation in Afghanistan is unstable, there are concerns for the animals at Kabul Zoo. However, as of 25th August we can confirm that zoo staff are working as normal and the animals are safe.

WHO IS WORKING ON THIS ISSUE?

Both The Mayhew and One World Actors Animal Rescues (OWAP), and the Zoological Society of London are in touch with Kabul Zoo.

These organizations are not directly involved in the zoo’s activities, but are in direct contact with the zoo’s director. The Asia for Animal Coalition’s 22 core member organisations are here to support these organisations and are monitoring the situation.

Director of Kabul Zoo, Mr. AzizGul Saqib, has confirmed that, although the situation is fluid and the future as yet uncertain, that the animals have food and water. Mr Saquib stated:

" We providing the complete standard menue of the food" and that the Zoo staff and vets are still on-site and tending to the animals.."We will be in contact if we need any thing for the animals”

STATEMENT from the Zoological Society of London

ZSL London Zoo, part of international conservation charity ZSL, is committed to providing support to Kabul Zoo. The two zoos have worked together over the years, with our teams sharing expert knowledge and experience. With the rapidly changing situation in Afghanistan, ZSL London Zoo’s team remain in contact with Kabul Zoo at this time and will continue to provide support and advice whenever and wherever possible.

STATEMENT from THE MAYHEW

Mayhew is a UK registered animal welfare charity, working primarily with dogs and cats. Our work in Kabul with our branch, Mayhew Afghanistan, is delivery of a mass canine rabies vaccination programme and a TNR programme for the city’s free-roaming dog population. We do not have a shelter there.

The safety of our staff is a priority at this time, but we are hoping to resume our operations if and when circumstances allow and it is safe to do so. There will still be free-roaming dogs in Kabul and rabies will raise its ugly head again.

Mayhew’s relationship with Kabul Zoo started in 2002 when we were part of a group of NGOs that helped rebuild the zoo. Dr Mohammadzai DVM, our Afghanistan Country Director, has facilitated connections for Kabul Zoo with ZSL London and also provided training for vets and carried out more complex surgeries for them. We have a warm relationship with the Zoo Director.

WHAT CAN I DO TO HELP?

Share news only from trustworthy sources.

Please support organisations working on the ground.

We are currently seeking advice on the best organisation to receive donations in support of Kabul Zoo. This will be updated as soon as we have more information.