This year, the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) decided to shake things up a bit and get SAMSA staff involved in packing meal packs for communities in need in line with the theme “It is in your hands”, which reminds us that combating poverty and inequity is everyone’s responsibility!
The fun filled SAMSA staff activation demonstrates how our employees, who are the heart of the entity, contribute to meaningful social change.
We are proud to have partnered with Rise Against Hunger, an NGO that specialises in food aid programs. This partnership reflects the true spirit of collective responsibility, demonstrating how strategic collaborations can lead to lasting community impact.
The South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA), in collaboration with the International Maritime Organization (IMO), is proud to announce the National Workshop on Promoting Shipping Decarbonisation and Aligning with the IMO Net-Zero Framework, that will take place on Thursday, 10 July 2025, in Pretoria, South Africa.
This landmark event – the first of its kind following the historic approval of the IMO Net-Zero Framework at MEPC 83 in April 2025 – will bring together maritime industry stakeholders, policymakers, and thought leaders for an in-depth dialogue on: • Understanding the new IMO Net-Zero Framework • Clarifying Member State roles and responsibilities • Strengthening institutional support for shipping decarbonisation • Aligning national and regional goals with global commitments • Preparing strategically for the Framework’s adoption in October 2025
Be part of a catalytic platform that will define Africa’s contribution to global maritime decarbonisation and shape the path forward for a sustainable, future-ready industry.
The conference held in Pretoria takes place from Monday 7 to Wednesday 09 July 2025 at the CSIR International Convention Centre, Pretoria, South Africa.
This year’s theme “Mobility solutions to southern African challenges” will engage all stakeholders involved in the transport sector on solutions to providing optimum, effective, and efficient transport solutions to improve service delivery to better respond as a sector, to the needs of all users of our transport systems.
The Transport Minister, Honourable Barbara Creecy delivered the opening address which focussed on the Department of Transport’s agenda to transform passenger and freight transport in South Africa – with the aim of driving economic growth, creating jobs, and improving road safety.
The SAMSA board chairperson, Mr Mahesh Fakir was also present at the opening of this year’s SATC conference. SAMSA will also be chairing a dedicated maritime session on Wednesday, on 09 July 2025 focused on maritime decarbonisation, aligning with the 2023 IMO Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Strategy and the recently approved IMO Net-Zero Framework during MEPC 83.
On 25 June 2025, the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) proudly joined the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the whole maritime fraternity in celebrating the International Day of the Seafarer in Cape Town, at the Makers Landing.
This annual observance, designated by the United Nations (UN) honours the indispensable role of seafarers in sustaining global trade, security, and the movement of essential goods.
This year’s theme, “My Harassment Free Ship,” resonates deeply. It calls for urgent action to eliminate harassment and discrimination at sea, and to foster safe, respectful, and inclusive working environments for all maritime professionals.
The SAMSA event brought together seafarers, cadets, industry leaders, stakeholders, maritime institutions, high school pupils, exhibitors and government representatives in a show of solidarity and shared commitment to improving life onboard.
Through its Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) office, SAMSA continues to lead impactful initiatives – ranging from gender-based violence (GBV) awareness campaigns to training workshops and confidential reporting mechanisms – ensuring that every individual working in South African waters, including the men and women who work at the ports to repair ships and load or offload cargo from ships feels seen, heard, and protected.
The event included a panel discussion that tackled crucial issues such as mental and emotional wellness at sea, and the importance of psychological support for seafarers working in isolated and high-pressure environments.
SAMSA takes seriously the task of contributing to building a maritime sector where safety is human-centered, and leaves no place for harassment. As we navigate a future of expanding trade, technological change, and climate challenges, let us remain anchored in one unwavering principle: Respect for the Seafarer.
