South Africa’s ocean economy has attracted more than 4 billion rand (approximately 233 million U.S. dollars) in investment over the past decade, according to Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dion George. The announcement underscores growing investor confidence in the country’s maritime potential and its capacity to generate inclusive, sustainable growth across coastal and rural communities.
Speaking in Cape Town on Thursday, Minister George described the ocean as “a renewable source of jobs, revenue and resilience,” stressing that effective management of marine resources is central to South Africa’s broader development and climate strategy. “Our aquaculture facilities, harbours and marine protected areas are proof that the ocean is not only heritage—it is industry, tourism and growth,” he said.
The Oceans Economy Master Plan, a key framework guiding national maritime policy, projects that South Africa’s ocean industries could contribute 166 billion rand to gross domestic product and create more than 600,000 jobs by 2035. The plan highlights aquaculture, fisheries, coastal tourism and marine conservation as crucial to driving sustainable economic diversification, particularly in coastal provinces facing high unemployment rates.
Operation Phakisa, launched in 2014, remains central to these efforts. The government-led initiative aims to unlock the full economic potential of South Africa’s maritime domain while safeguarding its ecosystems. Administered through the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), the programme has facilitated significant progress in expanding aquaculture ventures, upgrading harbour infrastructure, and promoting small-scale fisheries.
The Fishing for Freedom campaign, under the same programme, has revitalised harbour economies by creating employment in fish processing, boatbuilding and tourism. At the same time, the establishment of new Marine Protected Areas has helped strengthen biodiversity conservation while enhancing the country’s appeal as a global destination for eco-tourism, including whale watching and marine recreation.
Central to the government’s maritime strategy is Marine Spatial Planning, which seeks to harmonise economic activity with ecological stewardship. Through this approach, ocean zones are designated for specific uses—balancing development needs with environmental protection. The DFFE has also advanced an Inland Fisheries Policy aimed at strengthening food security and promoting rural enterprise through sustainable freshwater resource management.
Experts and policymakers view South Africa’s progress as part of a wider continental movement towards recognising the ocean as a critical economic and ecological frontier. The initiative aligns with the African Union’s Agenda 2063, which positions the blue economy as a key pillar of Africa’s transformation. With 38 coastal states and a combined exclusive economic zone of more than 13 million square kilometres, the continent’s maritime resources offer vast opportunities for shared prosperity—if managed equitably.
“South Africa’s approach illustrates how marine resources can be used to advance both economic growth and social equity,” said a researcher from the University of Cape Town’s Marine Research Institute. “The real test will be ensuring that these benefits reach communities, not only industries.”
Observers note that governance, infrastructure and environmental challenges remain. Regulatory delays, pollution risks and limited local participation continue to threaten the long-term sustainability of the sector. Minister George acknowledged these challenges, reiterating the government’s commitment to maintaining transparency, ecological balance and inclusive economic participation.
As South Africa deepens its engagement with its ocean economy, its experience may inform broader African efforts to transform maritime resources into instruments of sovereignty and shared well-being. The nation’s evolving relationship with its seas reflects a shift towards African-centred development—one that values stewardship, inclusion and sustainability over extraction and dependency.
