King Sabata Dalindyebo Municipality partnered with the South African International Maritime Institute (SAIMI), the International Ocean Institute-SA (IOI-SA), the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) in conducting the Small-Scale Fisheries Governance Training and Capacity Building Workshop that was held at the DFFE Office (PRD Building).
The aim of the 3-day training programme that was held on 25-27 September 2024 was to capacitate and develop mentors for small-scale co-operatives in the maritime sector and to inform people about the legal framework of the ocean’s economy.
Miss Ntomboxolo Boni, standing in for RED Director highlighted that these programmes have the potential to create jobs and alleviate poverty. “Poverty, unemployment and inequality are the threats that threaten KSD communities and its economy. This initiative has a potential to address this triple threat,” Miss Boni said.
Six members from KSD fishing primary cooperatives, such as Ngoko, Njixiza, Siyaloba, Dalintlutha, Siyaphambili and Vuka Sizindeni were among those who were trained for mentorship. This transfer of knowledge will assist the coops in skills that include conflict management, communication, leadership, networking, facilitation as well as fund-raising skills.
One of the participants, Tokozani Msutwana from Ngoko Primary Fishing Cooperative said, “I enjoyed the training, it was an eye opener and we acquired valuable skills to use for growing our coops. I found most important the introduction of the skills to tackle conflict when it arises and the legal framework around what we do”.
At the end of the session, mentors received their certificates of completion and went home with a ton of information that will assist them in successfully running their cooperatives.
