Threats like piracy, trafficking, and illegal fishing have led to South Africa linking its maritime security to the growth of its Blue Economy. To grow its Blue Economy, the country is upgrading its port infrastructure and ship-repair facilities in hubs like Durban and Cape Town in attempts to increase global trade resilience; Operation Phakisa, marine aquaculture and fish processing are receiving targeted investment to create coastal jobs and support food security; it has expanded its Marine Protected Areas to help replenish fish stocks and boosts coastal tourism and through the SADC Integrated Maritime Security Strategy, South Africa works alongside neighboring African countries to conduct joint patrols and harmonise standards against maritime crimes.

Former Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Willie Aucamp, speaking at the 7th Ministerial Conference of the Benguela Current Convention in Luanda, Angola in May.

South Africa’s commitment to the strengthening of scientific cooperation through joint research and shared resources, securing sustainable financing for the Commission, building regional capacity, and intensifying efforts to combat illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing, while ensuring that emerging marine activities are guided by sound science.

In June the country inducted four new-generation indigenous naval platforms within a month. Speaking during the launch, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the new naval vessels will significantly bolster the nation’s operational capabilities, enhance maritime domain awareness, and strengthen the security of its coastal waters.

The maritime domain and its impact on South Africa’s economy has also been highlighted by President Cyril Ramaphosa, who said the country is abundantly endowed with natural resources, which must be harnessed to a greater level to boost economic growth and job creation.

“South Africa has got huge and wonderful natural resources, which we need to exploit to a higher level…we can grow our economy enormously and make South Africa a hub as far as the ocean economy is concerned,” Ramaphosa said in April, following a guided tour of the Port of Ngqura’s operations.

Developing economies like India and South Africa are increasingly recognising the immense employment-generating potential of the maritime sector not as an isolated industry but as a major engine of employment and economic growth.