SOUTH AFRICA: Introduced to the National Assembly in May last year, the Merchant Shipping Bill has been published by the Minister of Transport for comment.

SEYCHELLES: Four new harbour pilots received their epaulettes in a recent ceremony to mark the successful completion of critical phase of their training to becoming Harbour Pilots with Limitations.

SOUTH AFRICA: With a history dating back to 1949, Seascape Marine Services is celebrating a 75-year milestone this year marking a journey of resilience and adaptation that saw the company develop out of its origins within Industrial Machinery Supplies (Pty) Ltd (IMS), an entity established by Conart Holdings which was founded as an agent for German companies, with MAN Diesel Engines being a key partner.

SOUTH AFRICA: As South Africa sets out on its journey to develop its own National Action Plan for decarbonisation, experts are calling for the substantial costs of implementing the infrastructure and other obstacles to be shared across the export/import value chain.

SOUTH AFRICA: The Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Narend Singh reaffirmed the government’s commitment to prioritise the aquaculture sector as well as the need to focus on technology and market demands during his address at the opening of the 15^th Aquaculture Association of South Africa Conference in Stellenbosch.

SOUTH AFRICA: The Department of Transport (DoT) has published the draft Aeronautical and Maritime Search and Rescue Bill with provides for the establishment of the South African Search and Rescue Organisation (SASARO) and is inviting public comments.

SOUTH AFRICA: The Aerospace Industry Support Initiative (AISI) has once again launched a call for maritime companies to apply to participate in their Marine Supplier Development Programme which aims to provide assistance to manufacturers and service providers requiring support in obtaining standards and accreditations.

SEYCHELLES: Seychelles will be assuming the role of Chair of the Contact Group on Illicit Maritime Activities (CGIMA), following the Contact Group’s second plenary meeting on 5 September.