The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) has completed a signage installation project at nine of the Western Cape’s 12 proclaimed fishing harbours.
The signage project forms part of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment Minister Dion George’s Fishing for Freedom Tour and his department’s broader strategy that aims to restore pride and improve functionality in key coastal communities dependent on the fishing economy. The signage was installed between April and June.
“These signage upgrades are more than cosmetic. They are a statement of intent. They reflect our department’s commitment to restore dignity, pride and functionality to communities who rely on our working harbours,” George said.
The following nine harbours now feature new branded signage: Kalk Bay, Hout Bay, Elands Bay, Doring Bay and Saldanha Bay’s Pepper Bay, Lambert’s Bay, St Helena Bay’s Sandy Point, Laaiplek, and Yzerfontein, which received its first signage installation on 25 April, with further enhancements scheduled.
“This delivery marks a powerful outcome from the Fishing for Freedom Tour,” said George.
“We are determined to uplift and improve our harbours to unlock their economic potential. Our teams are working tirelessly to finalise the remaining installations, and we look forward to celebrating the full revitalisation of these harbours.”
At the remaining six harbours – Arniston, Stilbaai, Struisbay, Hermanus, Gansbaai and Gordon’s Bay – officials have completed site visits and preparatory work has been undertaken. Signage is ready for transportation and installation, with final dates to be confirmed in the coming weeks.
The department said although harbour infrastructure fell under the jurisdiction of other government departments, its role in improving the functionality, safety and visual identity of these sites was vital to sustaining marine-based livelihoods.
“Close collaboration with local teams is key to ensuring that all remaining harbours soon reflect the same level of visible progress,” the department said.
The signage roll-out forms part of a broader strategy to promote sustainable development and economic growth in coastal towns. The department said the initiative was about more than aesthetics. It represents a restoration of hope, identity and economic momentum in historically underserved fishing communities.
“The signage project underscores the Department’s broader commitment to rejuvenating fishing communities, promoting sustainable development, and restoring the Western Cape’s harbours as vibrant centres of economic and cultural activity,” said George.
The Fishing for Freedom Tour is an engagement platform between government, local fishermen and women, and small businesses, aimed at unlocking the full economic potential of South Africa’s working harbours.
