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.

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.

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.

The 5th Special Tripartite Committee (STC) of the MLC, 2006, convened at the ILO Headquarters in Geneva on 07 – 11 April 20025. South Africa was represented by the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) by Azwimmbavhi Nelwamondo (Chief Examiner) and Mr Sibusiso Rantsoabe (Manager: OHS & Maritime Welfare) and virtually by Mr Mabuse Moagi (Senior Examiner – Engine).

The Meeting of the STC established under the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC, 2006) serves to review and propose amendments to the convention’s standards, ensuring they remain relevant to the evolving maritime industry. Its primary purpose is to facilitate collaboration between governments, employers, and workers to improve the working conditions of seafarers globally.

The 5^th STC MLC, 2006 was notably enhanced by the inclusion of proposals for discussion, such as the designation of seafarers as “key workers.” Additionally, there was a focus on the protection of human rights for female seafarers and other “vulnerable groups.” Provisions were adopted to ensure their shipboard needs are met and to provide protection against issues of violence and harassment, including sexual harassment, bullying, and sexual assault.

The topic on prevention of violence and harassment, including sexual harassment, bullying and sexual assault is very close to the South African delegation as this was part of the outcomes of the GBV at sea Seminar held in 2022 and forms part of the strategy of the SAMSA GBV at sea programme.  In total there were 16 proposals up for discussion at the meeting.

There were other important proposals that also enriches the MLC and mostly drawing from the experience gained during the Covid 19 pandemic. The agenda for the meeting was very rich and resulted in long hours of 09h00 – 22h00 daily. A significant amount was accomplished in just one week, thanks to the outstanding leadership of the committee and the collaborative efforts of the government and the social partners. On Friday 11 April 2025 all proposals that made it into voting were adopted.

The complete texts of amendments that were adopted can be found here.

South Africa is acknowledged as one of the countries that produces a high number of female seafarers. It was important to establish an instrument at international level that protects them since they are mostly working in international waters. This amendment also provides more power to Flag States administration like SAMSA to deal with these cases.

The South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) celebrated 27 years of existence on 1 April 2025.

The celebration was marked by various activities, including a heartfelt message to staff from the ACEO and video messages from excited staff members as the spirit of gratitude sailed across all SAMSA regions.

Since its establishment in 1998, SAMSA has grown into a leading authority in the South African maritime sector, anchored by a clear mandate: to safeguard lives and property at sea, protect the marine environment, and advance the nation’s maritime interests.

The 27th anniversary has been more than a date on the calendar – it has been a season of reflection, recognition, and heartfelt appreciation.

At the heart of it all is a deep recognition of the colleagues who keep SAMSA steady on its course, from frontline operations to behind-the-scenes support, our teams have weathered storms and steered forward service delivery and excellence.

Every achievement over the past 27 years is a chapter written by dedicated individuals committed to SAMSA’s mission. Not forgetting the invaluable support of our stakeholders over the years, your contributions never go unnoticed.

Here’s to nearly three decades of impact and to the people behind the progress. We look forward to many more years of Safe Ships and Clean Seas!

The Minister of Transport, Hon. Barbara Creecy directed the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) to conduct safety inspections of all South African commercial fishing vessels operating in South African waters.

This comes after serious fishing incidents that occurred in South Africa’s waters in 2024 that resulted in the tragic loss of eighteen (18) fishers’ lives. These Fishing Vessel Safety Audits will be conducted over a four-month period and will cover all major fishing ports across South Africa with the first phase beginning at the Port of Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha) from 3 to 7 March 2025.

The launch event, held in Gqeberha on Wednesday, 5 March 2025 was attended by the SAMSA Board Chairperson, Mr Mahesh Fakir, the Deputy Chairperson, Mr Tau Morwe and Acting CEO, Ms Mbalenhle Golding, reflecting the Authority’s commitment to improving maritime safety. The launch also received substantial media coverage, highlighting the importance of the initiative.

The SAMSA audit team began inspections in Port Elizabeth engaging with vessel owners, crew members, and industry representatives to assess compliance, identify risks, and evaluate emergency preparedness. The audit will continue in Gqeberha throughout this week before moving to other ports in the coming months.

SAMSA Acting CEO Mbalenhle Golding emphasised the importance of the initiative, stating: “SAMSA remains committed to protecting lives, property, and the marine environment by ensuring that South Africa’s fishing industry adheres to the highest safety standards. The audits play a vital role in shaping a robust Fishing Vessel Safety Improvement Plan, aimed at preventing future maritime incidents.”

SAMSA encouraged all fishing vessel operators to cooperate fully with the audit teams and actively participate in this essential safety initiative.

As part of this initiative, SAMSA has issued Marine Information Notice No. 6 of 2025, (dated 7 February 2025) informing the fishing industry about the upcoming safety audits and urging all vessel operators to participate in this critical exercise. The complete marine notice can be found here

SAMSA remains committed to protecting lives, property, and the marine environment by ensuring that South Africa’s fishing industry adheres to the highest safety standards. The audits will play a vital role in shaping a robust Fishing Vessel Safety Improvement Plan, aimed at preventing future maritime incidents.

All relevant stakeholders are encouraged to engage with their audit teams and support this initiative to build a safer and more resilient maritime sector.