Deputy Minister Narend Singh has called for stronger partnerships to unlock South Africa’s oceans economy and create sustainable jobs, investment and opportunities for coastal communities.
Delivering the keynote address at the Rural Oceans Economy Indaba 2026 in the Amathole District Municipality, Singh said South Africa’s 3 000-kilometre coastline presents significant opportunities for economic growth, job creation and community development if managed sustainably.
Speaking under the theme, “Unlocking Coastal Opportunities: Partnerships for Community Growth,” the Deputy Minister said the country’s ocean economy is a strategic national asset capable of supporting industries including fisheries, aquaculture, marine tourism, shipping, manufacturing and offshore resources.
Singh reflected on the progress made through Operation Phakisa: Oceans Economy, launched in 2014 to accelerate investment, strengthen marine governance and stimulate economic development through focused collaboration between government and industry.
He said South Africa is now entering a new phase through the finalisation of the Oceans Economy Master Plan, which aims to increase the sector’s contribution to job creation, economic growth and environmental sustainability while promoting greater inclusivity and transformation.
According to Singh, coastal districts such as Amathole are well positioned to align local development initiatives with national priorities by strengthening fisheries, aquaculture, tourism and other ocean-based value chains while attracting investment into coastal infrastructure.
He emphasised that the Eastern Cape possesses extensive untapped potential, with rich marine biodiversity, vibrant coastal communities and strategically located ports that can drive inclusive economic development.
“The development of the ocean economy must therefore be inclusive, community-centred and sustainable,” Singh said.
The Deputy Minister highlighted the importance of investing in skills development, supporting cooperatives, improving access to finance and creating opportunities for youth and women entrepreneurs to participate in the blue economy.
Reflecting on South Africa’s participation at the 11th Our Ocean Conference in Kenya, Singh said the event reinforced that sustainable ocean development is essential for economic growth, food security, climate resilience and social inclusion. He added that science-based decision-making, marine conservation and strong partnerships remain central to building a resilient oceans economy.
He also reaffirmed government’s commitment to supporting small-scale fisheries, marine manufacturing, renewable ocean energy, coastal tourism and marine conservation enterprises through the Oceans Economy Master Plan.
Closing his address, Singh urged all sectors to work together to unlock the full potential of South Africa’s oceans economy.
“National government cannot do this alone. Provincial government cannot do this alone. Municipalities cannot do this alone. Communities cannot do this alone. The private sector cannot do this alone. Unlocking a sustainable oceans economy requires alignment and coordination,” he said.
