Dr Dion George, the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, has announced a 36% increase in the allocation of certain key fish species.
George said this is a bold move in government’s support to small-scale fishers, providing them with greater access to marine resources that will enable business growth and create jobs at harbours across the country.
“This 36% increase in fish allocations for own use is about improving livelihoods, empowering fishing communities, and stimulating economic activity in our coastal regions. By supporting small-scale fishers, we’re ensuring that they become central players in driving local development and sustainability.”
The increased allocations form part of a broader strategy to promote inclusive economic growth and job creation while preserving South Africa’s rich marine biodiversity.
A Departmental report (2023) indicates numbers of fish stock have recovered from 43 back in 2012 to about 77 in 2023.
According to the report, there are 2,000 fish species in South Africa.
16% of these are endemic to SA.
Commercial, subsistence and recreational Fisheries catch more than 630 marine species.
Picture: Catch Cook