Minister Barbara Creecy on Fisheries and Environmental Budget Vote 2023/24

by
1 min read
waste management climate change

Minister of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment, Ms. Barbara Creecy, delivered the 2023/2024 budget vote in the National Council of Provinces (NCOP), highlighting various initiatives and programs aimed at addressing climate change, biodiversity loss, and environmental pollution.

Waste Management Improvements

During the budget vote, the Minister emphasized the Department’s focus on waste management, acknowledging that South Africa currently allows approximately 80,000 tons of plastic to leak into rivers and oceans. In line with this, South Africa has committed to developing a global legally binding instrument for plastic pollution, aiming to complete negotiations by the end of 2024.

Furthermore, the Presidential Good Green Deeds program will be revitalized, creating 2,000 work opportunities per province for 12 months, focusing on cleaning and greening the provincial capitals, supporting municipalities in cleaning up dump sites, planting trees, and curbing littering.

Climate Change, Air Quality, and Biodiversity

Creecy stressed the importance of climate change adaptation for provincial and municipal governments, stating that the Department is working on building climate resilience at the local level and incorporating necessary measures into provincial and municipal plans and budgets. Additionally, the Minister announced plans to domesticate the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework agreement.

SANParks and iSimangaliso

SANParks’ Socio-Economic Transformation Action Plan promotes greater participation of black-owned businesses, particularly those run by women, youth, and persons with disabilities. SANParks will also donate game to emerging game farmers, fostering the expansion of the wildlife economy. For the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, infrastructure projects and biodiversity conservation efforts are expected to create around 5,000 work opportunities in the coming year.

SANBI and Regulatory, Compliance, and Enforcement

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) provides crucial biodiversity information for sustainable environmental decision-making. It has implemented the Biodiversity Human Capital Development Strategy to address youth unemployment through various programs. Furthermore, the Department has been training provincial environmental management inspectors, ensuring compliance with regulations, and supporting inter-provincial investigations.

Oceans, Coasts, and Fisheries Management

The Department continues to work with provincial parks agencies to manage Marine Protected Areas. Safety measures for bathers will be improved with the development of a tidal pool in Port St. Johns, Eastern Cape.

Fishing provides economic benefits to the nation and improves the lives of coastal communities. The Department is finalizing appeals for the 2021/22 Fishing Rights Allocation Process (FRAP), supporting small-scale fishing cooperatives with programs and infrastructure. Furthermore, Working for Fisheries projects in the four coastal provinces will create 1,500 work opportunities and 900 full-time equivalents.

In conclusion, the Minister thanked stakeholders for their collaboration in environmental conservation and reiterated the Department’s commitment to address environmental issues and improve waste management, climate change adaptation, biodiversity conservation, and fisheries management.

Tags:

You might be interested in

A Russian-Spanish journalist and Cape Town native, channels his lifelong passion for South Africa into captivating stories for his local blog. With a diverse background and 50 years of rich experiences, Serjio's unique voice resonates with readers seeking to explore Cape Town's vibrant culture. His love for the city shines through in every piece, making Serjio the go-to source for the latest in South African adventures.

View all

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.

south africa uae
Previous Story

Strengthening Justice and Legal Cooperation: Outcomes of the Bilateral Meeting between South Africa and the UAE

world oceans day marine sustainability
Next Story

Minister Barbara Creecy Urges Action on World Oceans Day 2023

Latest from Blog

firefighters community outreach

Spreading Holiday Cheer: Firefighters Bring Joy to Children

In December 2024, firefighters brightened the holidays for children in care facilities by delivering wrapped gifts with big smiles. Partnering with Pick n Pay, they spread joy and gratitude after receiving support during a tough summer of wildfires. Each visit was a heartwarming reminder of kindness, as firefighters became symbols of generosity, teaching kids about empathy and community spirit. This joyful initiative shows how simple acts of giving can light up lives and strengthen bonds in the community.

justice gender-based violence

A Persistent Nightmare in Embalenhle: Justice Served

In Embalenhle, South Africa, a dark nightmare unfolded as Themba Prince Shongwe committed terrible crimes, including rapes and murders, from 2016 to 2018. The community lived in fear as he targeted innocent girls, causing heartbreak and loss. Finally, justice was served when he was found guilty and sentenced to nine life terms in prison, bringing relief to the grieving families and a sense of safety back to the community. This victory shines a light on the importance of standing against violence and working together to protect the vulnerable.

street lighting community safety

Illuminating Cape Town: Lighting Up Safety and Community

Cape Town’s streetlight program shines brightly as it manages over 245,000 lights, making the city safer and more inviting, especially during the festive season. The community plays a vital role by reporting issues and staying alert, working together to protect these lights from theft and vandalism. With a focus on sustainability, the city is switching to energyefficient LEDs, reducing its environmental impact while keeping streets welllit. This initiative not only lights up the city but also brings people together, creating a warm and safe atmosphere that showcases Cape Town’s beauty at night.

housing development community empowerment

A Beacon of Hope: Gugulethu’s New Housing Project

The Gugulethu Infill Housing Project is bringing joy and hope to the community of Gugulethu, South Africa, by building 52 new homes for deserving families. This celebration marks a fresh start for many, especially the elderly and middleaged residents who finally have a safe place to call home. As they move in, they not only gain shelter but also a sense of belonging and stability. This project symbolizes the community’s strength and resilience, showing that together, they can overcome challenges and build a brighter future. The new homes are more than just buildings; they represent dreams coming true and a promise of better days ahead.

colonel celeste van der klashorst gender-based violence

Championing Justice: The Journey of Colonel Celeste van der Klashorst

Colonel Celeste van der Klashorst is a fearless leader in South Africa’s fight against violence and crime, especially those targeting women and children. With over thirty years of service, she created Child Protection Units and now leads the National SECI Unit, tackling serious issues like serial rape and child pornography. Her team’s recent success in a major operation has led to arrests and rescued children, showing the powerful impact of her work. Colonel van der Klashorst inspires others with her passion for justice, making her a shining example of hope and resilience in the battle for a safer society.