SAMSA Launches Joint Inspections with the Department of Employment and Labour’s Inspectorate and Enforcement Services in South Africa’s Commercial Fishing Sector

In a landmark initiative to improve labour standards and promote decent work in the commercial fishing sector, SAMSA and the Department of Employment and Labour (DEL)’s Inspectorate and Enforcement Services Branch have started joint inspections on fishing vessels operating out of Cape Town.

This first phase of inspections, concluded on Friday, 23 May 2025, marked a significant milestone in a collaborative process that has evolved over the past three years. The initiative is rooted in the provisions of the International Labour Organization’s (ILO) Work in Fishing Convention No. 188 of 2007 (C188), which South Africa ratified in 2013.

The inspections follow an extensive programme that relates to stakeholder advocacy and engagement across the sector. Over the past few years, SAMSA, DEL, and the ILO have consulted widely with industry employers, fishing communities, trade unions, academic institutions, employer organisations, bargaining and statutory councils, and various arms of government. These engagements have focused on addressing the complex and long-standing issues that affect the safety, dignity, and rights of fishers.

The joint inspections are the result of systems and mechanisms developed through sustained support from the ILO. These enable SAMSA and DEL to assess working and living conditions aboard vessels and ensure that employment practices meet the standards outlined in both national legislation and Convention 188.

The current Cape Town inspections form the second phase of a national rollout. Future joint inspections are being planned for the Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, and Northern Cape provinces.

This historic collaboration not only underscores South Africa’s commitment to upholding international labour standards but also sends a strong signal to the fishing industry: fair, safe, and decent working conditions at sea are non-negotiable.

Advancing the Blue Economy Through Gender Equality: SAMSA’s Role on the Global Maritime Stage

The South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) recently took part in the World Maritime University’s (WMU) International Conference on Advancing the Blue Economy through Gender Equality.

The timely 3-day event held from 19 – 21 May came after the world-wide 2025 International Day for Women in Maritimecelebrations, reinforcing the momentum for gender equity in the maritime sector.

Representing SAMSA at the conference were Mr. Sibusiso Rantsoabe, the Manager for Occupational Health & Safety and Maritime Welfare, and Ms. Lulama Mthembu, Senior Manager in the Office of the Chief Operations Officer. Their participation underscored SAMSA’s commitment to fostering gender equality as a cornerstone of sustainable growth in the blue economy – spanning maritime, ocean science, fisheries, and beyond.

During the opening session, SAMSA addressed the barriers women face in entering and thriving within the maritime industry. A key highlight was the presentation of the SAMSA Gender-Based Violence (GBV) at Sea program, structured around three critical pillars, Education and Awareness, Support for Victims and Enforcement and Accountability.

The detailed GBV campaign includes a nationwide outreach, with brochures distributed to seafarers at various ports and a roadmap of future activities aimed at fostering safer, more inclusive maritime environments. SAMSA also emphasised the need to influence international policy in order to protect South African seafarers abroad

In a focused session led by WMU and Lloyd’s Register, SAMSA contributed to a study examining how Africa – and particularly African women—can play a pivotal role in supplying the next generation of seafarers. The study, which surveyed Maritime Education and Training (MET) institutions across six African countries, revealed sobering statistics:

Only 23% of MET students are women.
Just 22% of students at Universities of Technology (DUTs) successfully graduate.

These figures highlight systemic challenges, including gender disparities, limited training opportunities, a shortage of qualified instructors, and concerns around psychological safety—all contributing to high dropout rates.

Mr. Rantsoabe emphasised the importance of psychological safety and early awareness in combating GBV at sea. He advocated for comprehensive induction programs that prepare cadets for the realities of maritime life and equip them with the tools to report incidents effectively.

SAMSA’s active role in this global dialogue reflects a broader commitment to transforming the maritime sector into a more equitable and resilient space. By championing gender equality and psychological safety, SAMSA is not only shaping the future of South African seafarers but also contributing to a more inclusive global blue economy.

SAMSA Welcomes Ghana Maritime Authority Director General to Strengthen Regional Maritime Cooperation

The South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) recently hosted Navy Captain Dr. Kamal-Deen Ali, a newly appointed Director General of the Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA), at its Cape Town offices for strategic discussions aimed at deepening maritime cooperation between the two countries.

Attended by Mr. Eugene Alec Rappetti, Executive Manager: Maritime Special Projects, and Captain Lee Michael De La Rue, Senior Examiner, from SAMSA, the meeting focused on exploring shared interests and enhancing collaboration across various maritime domains. SAMSA took the opportunity to provide an in-depth overview of its operations, including its mandate, organisational structure, and regulatory responsibilities within South Africa’s maritime sector.

Key topics covered during the engagement included South Africa’s ship regulatory framework, the organisation of SAMSA’s technical and inspection services, and processes related to the Cabotage Regime, Ship Registry, and Maritime Management.

The meeting culminated with both authorities identifying areas for potential collaboration. Dr. Kamal-Deen Ali expressed strong interest in partnering with SAMSA on matters such as revenue collection models, training and responsibilities of ship surveyors, and the training and certification of seafarers. Additionally, Capt. LM De La Rue shared insights into South Africa’s seafarer examination procedures, maritime training initiatives, and the accreditation of training institutions.

This meeting marks an important step in building closer ties between South Africa and Ghana in the maritime field. Both SAMSA and the GMA affirmed their commitment to promoting maritime safety, regulatory excellence, and skills development in their regions.

SAMSA Boating Unit Hosts Gatekeeper Workshop at Eagle Waters for Inland Waters Strategy

As part of its ongoing implementation of the Inland Waters Strategy, the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) recently rolled out a focused Gatekeeper workshop for officials stationed at Eagle Waters Wildlife Resort in Harties on the 8 to 9 April 2025. The training was facilitated by SAMSA Boating Unit represented by Mr. Vusi Dube and Mr. Tendani Rodney Mukhithi, with critical support from Mrs. Sylvia Arendse from the Certification Unit.

The Gatekeeper workshop forms part of SAMSA’s broader inland waters safety strategy, emphasising that safety protocols begin long before a vessel hits the water. The gatekeeper concept introduces a structured approach to vessel inspections and operational readiness at the access control points of launching facilities. It empowers ground-level officials with the critical knowledge and skills to ensure that only compliant and seaworthy vessels are granted access to the water.

By upskilling the Eagle Waters team, SAMSA is reinforcing the importance of front-line safety enforcement.

The Gatekeeper workshop trained Eagle Waters officials to perform essential safety checks, validate vessel documentation, and verify compliance before granting access to the water. By placing trained personnel at the “gate,” SAMSA is empowering agencies to intercept potential risks early, thereby preventing unsafe practices and reducing incidents on the water.

As these training courses continue, they will help build a stronger foundation for safe boating practices and better regulatory enforcement. The collective efforts of all involved contribute to ensuring that South Africa’s waterways remain safe for everyone.

The second day of the initiative culminated in a successful safety awareness campaign at Hartbeespoort Dam (Harties Dam), which saw enthusiastic engagement from the boating community. Boaters, families, and members of the public were educated on personal safety practices and the importance of licensing and vessel maintenance.

The combination of training and community outreach demonstrates SAMSA’s commitment to building sustainable partnerships with local authorities, while reinforcing national water safety goals through the Inland Water Strategy. The Gatekeeper concept, now being adopted at key sites across the country, is a practical and impactful tool for making South Africa’s inland waters safer for all users.