Fishing forum continues to strengthen governance and compliance

At the same table: small-scale fishers find power in partnership

SOUTH AFRICA: Since the establishment of a formal community fishing forum some three years ago, the fishing communities along the South Coast of South Africa have reported an improved ability to voice their concerns and actively participate in decision-making processes that affect their livelihoods.

Prior to the establishment of the South Coast Small-Scale and Community Fishing Forum, many small-scale fishers operated in isolation, with limited access to support and no structured channel for raising issues.

With WWF initially bringing the fishers of the South Coast together in 2024 to discuss local marine issues, the Forum was officially established in April 2023 and has been receiving ongoing support from WWF since then. Representing the interests of eight cooperatives in the area, consisting of over 500 small-scale fishers, it has ushered in a new era for those whose daily lives are shaped by this rugged coastline.

“The Forum changed the way we work as small-scale fishers. It brought our cooperatives together and gave us a platform to learn and engage.”

“The Forum changed the way we work as small-scale fishers. It brought our cooperatives together and gave us a platform to learn and engage. It has showed us that when we work together, we can find solutions to the challenges our communities face every day,” said Themba Mkhungo from Siyadida Primary Cooperative.

One of the Forum’s key successes has been strengthening the internal governance and compliance of the cooperatives. With support, several were able to open bank accounts and update documentation. Crucially, this included tax compliance certification as per the South African Revenue Service requirement. They are now better positioned to operate more formally and strengthen accountability and are better equipped to apply for funding opportunities.

Strategic partnerships have also played a critical role in advancing opportunities for coastal communities. A collaboration between WWF and Umzumbe Local Municipality led to the implementation of a community development project that currently employs eight members from local communities.

Also, in collaboration with Moses Kotane Research Institute, eight fishers were supported to undergo skipper training and receive their certificates. They were trained in critical maritime skills complementing their indigenous knowledge and ability to safely navigating the ocean. It contributed to improved safety awareness and technical competence within the sector.

Capacity building has been a cornerstone of the Forum’s work. Governance training was facilitated by the National Development Agency (NDA), equipping 54 small-scale fishers with essential organisational and leadership skills. Additionally, species identification training was conducted by Imvelo Blue in which 110 small-scale fishers were trained to correctly identify marine species so that they can safely handle bycatch and promote responsible fishing practices.

“Through this Forum, we are building a future where Marine conservation supports, rather than limits, community livelihoods,” says Cabangile Sikhosane, WWF Community Liaison Officer.

Overall, the Forum demonstrates a living example of a whole-of-society approach that government seeks to implement, and it builds a good foundation for strengthening inclusive governance and co-management of natural resources. This approach empowers fishers and promotes sustainability within the marine sector, and should be scaled up as far as possible.