The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, has expressed optimism regarding the revitalisation of the Western Cape’s 12 Proclaimed Fishing Harbours, as detailed in a comprehensive report for September 2025.
This initiative aims to bolster coastal economies and operational efficiency in the fishing industry, reflecting the government’s commitment to enhancing both livelihoods and environmental sustainability, reports Cape {town} Etc.
‘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,’ George stated.
The revitalisation project has yielded tangible results, particularly in the operational aspect of the harbours. During the first quarter of the 2025/26 financial year, 33 vessels successfully underwent slipping, side slipping, and launching activities across various harbours.
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Presently, over 300 vessels are moored across the 12 harbours, demonstrating the significance of these facilities to the local fishing community.
As part of ongoing assessments, the second quarter operational report, covering July to September 2025, is scheduled for release on 3 October. This will shed further light on the improvements made and operational results achieved in the latter part of the year.
A noteworthy aspect of the current operations includes the planned removal of sunken vessels in Hout Bay. Two vessels, the Edelweiss and African Unity, are set for removal during the next low tide in October 2025, with the Department closely collaborating with the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) to ensure compliance with the Wrecks and Salvage Act.
This initiative is essential not only for operational efficiency but also for maintaining harbour safety.
As part of enhanced security protocols, the government has taken proactive steps to protect these harbours. On 29 September, purchase orders were issued for electronic security installations at Kalk Bay, with plans to extend similar improvements to Lamberts Bay, Hermanus, Gansbaai, and Gordon’s Bay in early October.
The installation process is expected to commence this month, indicative of a focused effort on securing these vital infrastructure points.
Additionally, ongoing re-advertisements and requests for quotations for security enhancements at Hout Bay, Laaiplek, St Helena Bay, Still Bay, Arniston, and Struisbaai illustrate the commitment to ensuring safety across all harbours.
Notably, Saldanha Harbour and Paarden Eiland Workshop are already benefitting from 24/7 monitoring and rapid armed response capabilities, reinforcing the safety net for these essential coastal facilities.
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Picture: Minister Dr. Dion George / Facebook
