THE Durban animal welfare community is mourning the loss of Steve Smit, co-founder of Monkey Helpline and a dedicated animal rights activist, who died yesterday (August 12) after a struggle with stage 4 cancer.

Also read: Busting 5 myths about vervet monkeys

A man of worth 

Affectionately known as monkey man, Smit was a prominent figure in efforts to protect Durban’s vervet monkeys and other local wildlife. His partner, Carol Booth, who also co-founded Monkey Helpline, shared that Smit was much more than just his public persona.

“Many know him for his passion, incredible wit, storytelling, dashing Tarzan looks and so much more. But few knew him as the loving dad to his three children, also step-dad to his two other children. He was a loved brother, son, mentor, activist and hero,” she said.

Beyond his deep care for animals, Booth remembers him as a complex individual who gave it his all and often expected nothing in return for his efforts.

The animals’ advocate 

Smit’s commitment to animal advocacy began decades ago. In 1985, he established the Front for Animal Liberation and Conservation of Nature (Falcon). This organisation served as a basis for much of his early work in animal advocacy. Falcon later evolved, and Smit went on to co-found Animal Rights Africa (ARA) and Monkey Helpline.

His activism involved addressing some of the most challenging wildlife and animal welfare issues of his time. In the late 1990s and early 2000s, Smit actively campaigned against the international wildlife and ivory trade, arguing against the relaxation of ivory export bans. In 2003, he presented a case to parliament’s portfolio committee on environmental affairs, advocating for the legal recognition of individual animals’ rights within biodiversity legislation. He continued to oppose the live animal trade in the following decade, challenging government policies that he felt prioritised financial gain over animal welfare.

His true passion

However, it was through Monkey Helpline that Smit became most widely recognised by Durban residents. What started as an extension of his earlier activism became his primary focus. For years, Smit and Booth responded to calls concerning vervet monkeys, addressing cases of abuse, illegal shootings with pellet guns, poisonings and debunking harmful myths about urban wildlife. His work brought him into contact with numerous members of the public and countless monkeys needing assistance.

Remembering Smit

To commemorate Smit, Booth is inviting those who knew and cared for him to plant one of his favourite trees: the sycamore fig tree. 

“To plant a sycamore fig tree in Steve’s memory and honour his love for nature and community, we encourage you to find a suitable location, your garden, a park or a designated conservation area, and nurture its growth,” said Booth. 

Participants are encouraged to share photos of their trees and their tributes using the hashtag #PlantForSteve. 

While Smit’s life has come to an end, the legacy and impact he has left behind speaks volumes to his character. 

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