The State of Animal Welfare Address
A vehicle to inform supporters and key stakeholders about the present conditions of Animal Welfare in South Africa
The State of Animal Welfare Address (SOAWA) is an important moment on the FOUR PAWS calendar — a platform dedicated to informing our supporters and key stakeholders about the current state of animal welfare in South Africa.
More than just a report, SOAWA is a reflection of our societal impact and the ongoing journey towards a more compassionate country for animals. It is an opportunity to share the powerful stories, data, and achievements that demonstrate meaningful progress in animal welfare, while also shedding light on the suffering that many animals continue to endure.
Through this address, we invite South Africans to confront the realities faced by animals and to join us in driving positive, lasting change.
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The State of Animal Welfare 2024
On 10 May 2024, FOUR PAWS hosted its first inaugural State of Animal Welfare Address (SOAWA) at Cape Town’s District Six Homecoming Centre. This landmark event united key stakeholders to reflect on the state of animal welfare in South Africa, unpack urgent challenges, and chart a path toward meaningful change. Insights from a nationwide FOUR PAWS survey was revealed - highlighting public concerns and reaffirming the organisation’s mission to expose cruelty and protect animals across the country.
Click here to view highlights from the evening.
Note: Any advertisements that may appear during the viewing of this video are unrelated to FOUR PAWS. We assume no liability for this content.
The State of Animal Welfare 2025
Hosted annually by Fiona Miles, Director of FOUR PAWS South Africa, #SOAWA unites government, academia, civil society, and industry leaders to assess the state of animal welfare and shape bold, collaborative solutions for a humane, sustainable future, with this year’s edition opening its doors to the public to join the conversation on South Africa’s animal welfare journey. This year’s theme, “Animal Welfare: A Pillar of One Health and Sustainable Development,” highlighted the integration of animal welfare into South Africa’s One Health Action Plan, pandemic prevention strategies, and sustainable food systems.
Click here to view highlights from the day.
