Cape Town – The African Oceans Council (AOC) has come out in support of the call by Transport Minister Barbara Creecy for the South African Maritime Authority (SAMSA) to conduct urgent safety inspections on all commercial fishing vessels operating in South Africa.
This after a Viking Fishing Company fishing vessel, FV Armana, with 20 crew on board was on fire early on Sunday morning about 60 nautical miles off the Gansbaai coast in the Western Cape.
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“As the AOC, we note the incident and it is very fortunate that all crew members were reported safe,” the council said.
“We encourage safe and secure seas across the continent.
“However, we note with concern that 18 people have lost their lives in five incidents in 2024.”
The AOC said a critical factor exacerbating these tragedies was the outdated state of fishing vessels in South Africa.
SAMSA estimates that 1 800 fishing vessels in operation are old, too small, and lack the modern technology needed to ensure safety and efficiency.
“Financing the upgrade and replacement of these vessels would not only protect human lives but also create a valuable opportunity to stimulate the shipbuilding industry, which has the potential to generate thousands of new jobs,” AOC said.
The fishing sector employs 27 000 direct jobs across the country’s coastline and contributes R6 billion annually to the local economy.
“The fishing industry is at a crossroads and to remain competitive, resilient, and safer, it requires significant investment in larger, more modern vessels that are better equipped to meet today’s operational and safety challenges,” said AOC.
“Modernisation in the fishing industry will not only safeguard the lives of the crew but also enhance the economic contribution of this crucial sector.
“As the AOC, we remain dedicated to advocating for these necessary reforms across Africa’s maritime sectors.
“The tragic loss of life this year serves as a sobering reminder that innovation, enhanced safety protocols, and investment in better-equipped vessels are essential for the sustainable future of our maritime industries.”
The AOC said it strives to ensure that Africa’s maritime sector was equipped for a safer and more prosperous future.
Marine safety and marine security were the basis for the blue economy to remain relevant and for inter-Africa trade to increase.
“As the AOC, we would like to appeal to industry players to join this and other thematic topics at the inaugural African Maritime Investment Indaba they are hosting and taking place between 6 to 8 November at the Durban Exhibition Centre,” the council said.
