One voice for animals in the Cape

The Cape Animal Welfare Forum (CAWF) is an informal body of registered nongovernmental NGO’s working to regulate animal welfare in the Western Cape, and to sustain an effective partnership with the City of Cape Town and Provincial Government.

About us

CAWF originally started in 2006, when there came about a need for animal welfare organisations to work smarter, not harder!

A few charities met informally to discuss the provision of clinics, campaigns and general needs within the animal welfare sector, particularly relating to the provision of mobile clinics within township and informal areas. This enabled a collaborative approach by organisations who were able to support each other in a variety of ways, as well as developing healthy communications and attitudes to work that was required.
In 2012, the City of Cape Town met with organisations and requested that CAWF became a constituted body, regulated and formalised in order to “speak with one voice” to the City. In response to this request, the CAPE ANIMAL WELFARE FORUM (CAWF) was born.
Since then the City of Cape Town has supported the animal welfare sector extensively, supporting CAWF driven initiatives, assisting with much needed sterilisation campaigns and wellness projects.
CAWF members extend their sincerest thanks to the City of Cape Town for the continued support shown over the years.

CAWF Patron Alderman JP Smith with his dogs at the World Animal Day 2022 in De Waal Park, with Patricia Van Der Ross, Mayco for Community Services and Health.

Support our Events

We, and our members, rely on public support to co-ordinate our efforts to protect our animals.

latest news

City of Cape Town Mayoral Fund Sterilisations

CAWF deeply appreciates the City of Cape Town’s contribution of R1million to sterilise 1667 animals in the City of Cape Town. These ongoing contributions are a tremendous help in the on-going battle to reduce animal suffering. 1667 animals and their offspring can...

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Compassion Fatigue Workshop – October 2023

CAWF extends heartfelt thanks to Life Coach Kerrin Bain for her extensive workshop on compassion fatigue. Members of CAWF who work in the trenches, rescuing animals and dealing with extreme conditions including hostility from pet guardians have it hard, so a day...

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World Animal Day 2023

The 2023 World Animal Day was held on Sea Point Promenade on 1 October and was a howling success! Mayor Geordin Hill Lewis, together with a host of wonderful celebrities and animal welfare ambassadors judged dozens of special furry friends, who paraded and strutted...

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