Fishing incidents in South Africa’s waters in 2024, resulted in the tragic loss of eighteen (18) fishermen’s lives.
As a result, Barbara Creecy, the Minister of Transport, directed the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) to conduct safety inspections of all South African commercial fishing vessels operating in South African waters.
The first phase of a four-month process began this week in Gqeberha, and will cover all major fishing ports across the country.
The audit is expected to continue in Gqeberha throughout this week.
Mbalenhle Golding, SAMSA Acting Chief Executive Officer, said “SAMSA remains committed to protecting lives, property, and the marine environment by ensuring that South Africa’s fishing industry adheres to the highest safety standards. The audits play a vital role in shaping a robust Fishing Vessel Safety Improvement Plan, aimed at preventing future maritime incidents.”
SAMSA encouraged all fishing vessel operators to cooperate fully with the audit teams and actively participate in this essential safety initiative.
As part of this initiative, SAMSA has issued Marine Information Notice No. 6 of 2025, (dated 7 February 2025) informing the fishing industry about the upcoming safety audits and urging all vessel operators to participate in this critical exercise.