The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, has welcomed the progress that has been outlined in the September 2025 report on the revitalisation of the Western Cape’s 12 Proclaimed Fishing Harbours.
The report highlights steady improvements in infrastructure, safety, and operational efficiency, all aimed at supporting coastal economies and sustainable fisheries.“Our Proclaimed Fishing Harbours are central to coastal livelihoods and the fishing industry. The work being done to enhance their safety and functionality reflects our commitment to both people and the environment,” the Minister said.Key updates include the following:
- Harbour operations: In the first quarter of the 2025/26 financial year, 33 vessels were managed through slipping, side slipping, and launching activities. More than 300 vessels are currently moored across the 12 harbours. The second quarter operational report (July–September 2025) is due on 3 October.
- Salvage of sunken vessels: In Hout Bay, the Edelweiss and African Unity are scheduled for removal by their owners at the next low tide in October 2025. The department is working closely with the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) to ensure compliance with the Wrecks and Salvage Act.
- Security measures: Purchase orders for electronic security installations were issued for Kalk Bay on 29 September, with Lamberts Bay, Hermanus, Gansbaai, and Gordon’s Bay to follow in early October. Installations are expected to begin this month. Re-advertisements for Hout Bay, Laaiplek, and St Helena Bay are underway, while requests for quotations are being processed for Still Bay, Arniston, and Struisbaai. Security at Saldanha Harbour and Paarden Eiland Workshop already includes 24/7 monitoring and rapid armed response.
