24 - 06 - 2025

Urgent Call for Maritime Safety Reform in South Africa

During a media engagement at the Cape Town Waterfront Jetty, vessel owners gathered to hear Deputy Transport Minister Mkhuleko Hlengwa discuss the ongoing National Fishing Vessel Safety Audit. This comprehensive audit, directed by the Department of Transport, has been conducted by the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) and has reached all major fishing ports across the country.



Hlengwa highlighted three critical findings from the audit thus far. Firstly, the aging fleet poses significant risks to the structural integrity of the vessels. Secondly, there are stability issues related to the vessels loading conditions, which can lead to dangerous situations. Lastly, the inefficiency of safety management systems has been identified as a major concern.



The Deputy Minister emphasized that the gathering was not merely ceremonial but aimed at ensuring oversight, accountability, and leadership in maritime safety. He pointed out that since 1996, South Africa has recorded nearly 400 fatalities in commercial fishing, with over half occurring in the Western Cape. He referenced the tragic capsizing of the MFV Lepanto, which resulted in the loss of 11 crew members last year, and the subsequent fire on its sister vessel, Armana.



Hlengwa stated that these incidents serve as warnings and calls to action that must not be ignored. The audit aims to evaluate compliance and restore accountability, particularly for small vessels, which are most vulnerable to accidents.



Thandi Mehlo, Principal Audit Officer for SAMSA in Gqeberha, noted that the age of vessels compromises their structural integrity, as steel has a limited lifespan at sea. He also mentioned challenges related to unauthorized ship redesigns and the lack of operational dry docks for vessel maintenance in recent years.



Mehlo acknowledged that exceptions had been granted to aging vessels, which has led to significant safety concerns. He expressed optimism about improvements in ship repair facilities managed by port authorities and emphasized the importance of a complete audit of all vessels within the next three years.



Looking ahead, Hlengwa outlined a roadmap that includes completing the national audit, launching a National Fishing Vessel Safety Improvement Plan, considering a recapitalization program for fishing vessels, and institutionalizing annual training and inspections. He stressed that every life lost at sea is one too many and that safety is a fundamental right for all. Hlengwa called for a movement that prioritizes life and dignity, positioning South Africa as a leader in maritime safety across the continent.