In an exciting announcement, the Two Oceans Aquarium recently revealed plans for the construction of a stand-alone Turtle Conservation Centre, set to commence in 2026.

This initiative forms a crucial part of the V&A Waterfront’s Granger Bay precinct improvement project, aiming to enhance turtle conservation efforts.

Ann Lamont, Executive Chairperson of the Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation, expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “The Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation is thrilled to share this news with our ocean-loving community.”

Lamont emphasized the center’s multifaceted purpose, integrating turtle education, research, veterinary science, and tourism under one roof.

She highlighted the significance of providing public visibility to their turtle conservation work, which is currently conducted behind the scenes.

The upcoming Turtle Conservation Centre, a first of its scale in Africa, will encompass a rehabilitation hospital, education facilities, exhibition spaces, a restaurant, and a shop.

Lamont also stressed the importance of showcasing various turtle species and educating the public on marine ecosystems and conservation efforts.

Talitha Noble-Trull, Manager of the Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation Turtle Conservation Centre, underscored the urgent need for expanded facilities.

“Our work with turtles is critical, given the impact of climate change and plastic pollution threatening all seven species.”

She emphasized the center’s capacity to assist with turtle rescues along the entire African coast, extending beyond South Africa.

The Aquarium’s successful release of over 1000 turtles into the ocean over the past two decades demonstrates the importance of such conservation efforts.

Notable cases include Bob, the green turtle, and Novombu, a loggerhead turtle, both rehabilitated after enduring significant challenges.

The decline of sea turtle populations underscores the urgency of efforts to rehabilitate them back into the wild.

Despite surviving for millions of years, all seven species are now classified as endangered or critically endangered due to human activities.

For updates on the development of the new centre, the public is encouraged to follow the Two Oceans Aquarium and Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation on social media.

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