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A pioneering project led by the University of Cape Town’s Department of Biological Sciences is developing artificial intelligence (AI) tools to improve onboard monitoring of fish catches in South Africa’s trawl fishery for hake. By combining AI with video technology, the project aims to deliver more accurate and transparent data on what’s being caught at …

AI-powered monitoring project aims to transform fisheries data collection Read More »

A pioneering pilot project has launched in Cape Town that could revolutionize the way fishing nets are recycled in South Africa – and potentially across the globe. Spearheaded by non-profit company OCEAN Action Network (OCEAN) and Ocean Plastic Technologies (OPT), the project will introduce the country’s first harbour-based facility for recycling fishing nets, located at …

South Africa launches first on-site fishing net recycling pod in groundbreaking sustainability initiative Read More »

An innovative project in the South African trawl fishery for hake, led by Imvelo Blue Environment Consultancy, aims to improve compliance with Bird Scaring Line (BSL) deployment – a key method for reducing seabird bycatch. The project is one of three to be funded by a £25 000 (about R610 000) grant from the MSC’s Ocean Stewardship …

Innovative tech boosts seabird protection in South African trawl fishery Read More »

The South African trawl fishery for hake is advancing its commitment to sustainability as it prepares for recertification under the updated Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) Fisheries Standard. Certified since 2004 and successfully re-assessed three times, the fishery is now taking proactive steps to meet the Standard’s latest best-practice requirements. To support this transition, the South …

South African hake fishery pioneers sustainability with new innovations and partnerships Read More »

Right-holders in the South African trawl fishery for hake are aiming for a fifth certification from the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) and are intensifying efforts to present robust evidence of sustainable fishing practices. A team of independent assessors is expected to complete the final audit of the fishery under the current MSC certification (2021–2026) by …

Industry sets its sights on MSC re-certification Read More »

Against the backdrop of a shifting international market, South African hake is well-positioned to meet rising demand, particularly from the European Union and North America. Global groundfish supply is projected to remain stable in 2025 and in the years to come, holding steady at approximately 6.8 million tons per year, in line with the 20-year …

Cape hake set for a strong year with 4% TAC increase and robust demand Read More »

SADSTIA Chairman Innocent Dwayi, has extended his congratulations to Dion George, newly appointed Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, and assured him of the Association’s intention to work constructively with government to strengthen the fishing industry in South Africa.  “We welcome the appointment of Dr Dion George as Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the …

SADSTIA welcomes newly appointed Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Read More »

Doug Butterworth and Johann Augustyn, who both play pivotal roles in the management of the deep-sea trawl fishery for hake, were presented with certificates of “Special Recognition for Excellence and Accomplishments” at the inaugural Fishing Industry Gala Awards that took place in Cape Town in October. The black-tie event was attended by the leaders of …

Fisheries experts honoured with special awards Read More »