DFFE upholds small-scale fishing cooperatives’ appeals

The South African Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) has upheld appeals submitted by small-scale fishing cooperatives in the Traditional Linefish and West Coast Rock Lobster sectors for the 2026/2027 season.
Making the announcement today, the DFFE minister , Willie Aucomp, says this protects jobs and livelihoods
For around 16 years small-scale fishers in the Traditional Linefish sector were able to fish using 297 vessels as part of the Interim Relief system. However, for the 2026/2027 fishing season these vessels were not accommodated, leaving many small-scale fishing cooperatives with far less vessels to operate with.
Following appeals from the small scale fishing sector the DFFE reviewed the legislation and reinstated all 297 standard vessels into the allocation for small-scale fishers for the 2026/2027 season. Small-scale fishers are able to continue operating while they are given time to apply for their new 2026/2027 permits.
The Minister also announced the upholding by the DFFE of appeals regarding the discrepancies in the distribution of the Total Allowed Catch (TAC)
Hilda Adams of Mamre Fishing Primary Cooperatives and Chairperson of the West Coast Fishers Forum, thanked the DFFE and the Minister. “We are happy with the timelines for the outcomes of these appeals,” she said. She further said the Forum looks forward to further stakeholder engagements on all matters affecting their livelihoods and socio-economic circumstances, and custodianship. Faez Poggenpoel, fifth generation fisher under the Kalk Bay Primary Cooperative , praised the protection of their livelihoods and their cultural identity and the insurance that 297 vessels can fish, plus, he said, if multiplied by 10 crew, more than 15 000 direct dependents would be affected by this.”
The Minister also announced a series of follow-up engagements with small-scale fishers starting from 01 April 2026.
The Minister said the Department will continue working closely with fishing communities to ensure fair implementation and stability over the coming season.