It is truly humbling to witness the outpouring of grief and respect across social media as South Africans mourn the passing of such a super-human. We often take for granted the tireless work of the organisations and legends that keep our society ticking, but every now and then, we are reminded of the true champions walking among us.
If you have been wondering, "Who is this Steve Smit?" the man whose name has been flooding your timeline with such deep sadness here is why he mattered so much to our city and country.
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Image source: Living and working in the city, many of us are guilty of viewing the vervet monkey as a nuisance rather than a creature simply confused by the fact that green flora is rapidly being traded for grey concrete. As their habitat shrinks, do we ever pause to wonder where they are supposed to go, and who the real invaders are?
Steve Smit understood this better than anyone. As the founder of Monkey Helpline based in Durban, Steve left his day job to dedicate over 30 years of his life to safeguarding monkeys and the organisation he co-founded with Carol Booth in 1995.
Affectionately known as the "Monkey Man," Steve was a pillar of wildlife advocacy. As highlighted by WAPFSA, he was a key voice in the Wildlife Animal Protection Forum South Africa. His passion didn't stop at vervets; he also championed the Chacma baboon one of the largest of all monkeys, famously found in regions like the Western Cape (Mainly Cape Town) consistently fighting against policies that put these incredible creatures at risk as human populations expand.
Following his passing on 12 August 2026, even the Democratic Alliance (DA) extended their condolences, honouring his legendary contribution to our wildlife.
Steve's legacy is one of pure dedication. He taught us to look at our wild neighbours with empathy instead of annoyance. While losing this absolute force of nature leaves a massive void, his vital work lives on through every single life he saved.
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Personally as a business, we are not affiliated with Monkey Helpline, but we love what the organisation represents. With Steve having passed, we can still contribute to what he dedicated his life to doing. Do you want to get involved with the cause? Then you can check out how to support them and get involved here.