The Mangaung Metro Municipality in the Free State has allocated R30 million over a three-year period for the refurbishment of its Bloemfontein Zoo.
Spokesperson Qondile Khedama says the funds will also be used to ensure the Municipalitys adherence to animal regulations.
Khedama says the municipality has acquired veterinary and environmental specialists to prevent animal cruelty and ensure their welfare.
This comes after the zoo was closed in 2019 following regulatory issues that were raised by the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals SPCA, and public outcry of the terrible state the animals were in.
Khedama says the reopening of the zoo is expected to take place in 2027.
