Fishing in top six priorities for Department

Minister’s statement on first 100 days

SOUTH AFRICA: “Fishing for Freedom” has been named as one of the Six Big Priorities by Dr Dion George, Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment during his briefing on his first 100 days in office.

Outlining each of these priorities for the Department during the 7^th Administration, George, said that they would help address pressing environmental complexities within the country as well as stimulate socio-economic development.

According to the Minister, the Fishing for Freedom initiative is aimed at connecting local communities to the ocean economy while promoting marine conservation.

“This initiative is dedicated to our coastline which is firstly a source of natural beauty but also serves as a vital resource that supports the livelihoods of tens of thousands of South Africans. It is imperative that we manage these resources sustainably and equitably,” he said.

Focusing predominantly on the plight of small-scale fishers and coastal communities in his briefing, George also noted the need to streamline and simplify application processes for local fishers. “This will empower individuals and small enterprises, promote inclusivity in the fishing industry and ensure that economic opportunities are accessible to those who need them most,” he said.

Later during the question and answer session, he added that recreational anglers may soon be able to purchase their permits at their local supermarket and that pensioners may become exempt from applying for a recreational permit.

George is embarking on a comprehensive 12-harbour tour to engage directly with communities. “So far, I have conducted oversight visits at four of these harbours, where I have met with local fishers, community leaders, and stakeholders. These visits have provided invaluable insights into the everyday realities and opportunities within the sector,” he reported, adding that discussions had centred around infrastructure needs and safety concerns as well as market access and training opportunities.

With the threat of litigation still hanging over the department relating to the goals of conserving the country’s penguin colonies, the Minister confirmed that the aim was to keep the matter out of the courts.

Scheduled to meet with the parties involved today, George seems determined to work towards a solution, but admits that if all efforts fail it will go to court.

“I am certain we can reach a settlement that will ensure the future of our African penguin population in the wild,” he said.

“The Fishing for Freedom initiative embodies our dedication as a Department to creating a balanced approach where economic empowerment and environmental stewardship go hand in hand. By connecting local communities more directly to the ocean economy, we are not only enhancing livelihoods but also fostering a deeper respect and responsibility towards our marine environments,” he said.

Noting the significant reduction in the Department’s budget, George said that their sixth priority was represented by the whale.

“Over the medium term, the Department's budget has been reduced by nearly R2 billion. In recognising that effective conservation and environmental initiatives require substantial resources, we have been actively working to attract donor income and ensure financial efficiency within our department and its entities.”

The DFFE plans to diversify its funding sources and George confirms that a number of promising discussions were already underway to secure funding for key conservation projects and community-based environmental programs.

“By diversifying our funding sources, we are enhancing our capacity to implement impactful initiatives without placing additional strain on the national budget.”

Addressing aquaculture

Deputy Minister Narend Singh highlighted the Department’s involvement in the recent conference on aquaculture held in Stellenbosch last month.

“The conference provides the only local specific aquaculture platform of its kind for industry players, experts, students, and government to share information and move the industry forward,” he said noting the importance of fish farming in supplying the demand for seafood.

 “Since the 1990s, the majority of the growth of seafood production has been from aquaculture while capture fisheries have remained relatively stable.

South Africa’s small aquaculture sector has been identified as a priority area for growth, job creation and economic development.

“As we face the challenges of climate change, population growth, and food insecurity, aquaculture offers us a powerful tool for sustainable development. It represents an opportunity to enhance our nutrition and food security, generate employment, especially in rural areas, and drive economic growth while protecting our environment and promote sustainable utilisation of our natural resources,” he concluded.

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