Dear Portfolio Committee on Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment,


Following the Committee’s meeting with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) on 17 March 2026, we wish to raise key concerns emerging from the official record. The discussion revealed persistent challenges in Marine Spatial Planning (MSP), sector plan alignment, scientific justification for Marine Protected Area (MPA) expansion, and climate‑resilient governance, many of which require deeper oversight.

A major concern is the ongoing delay in finalizing the Marine Mineral Resources Sector Plan, the only outstanding plan under the MSP Act. This delay affects the development of marine area plans, exacerbates conflict between sectors such as mining, fisheries and conservation, and undermines coherent ocean governance. We request clarity on the causes of the delay, the status of engagements with the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy, and the revised timeline for completion.
We further note Committee Members’ concerns regarding contradictions among completed sector plans, indicating unresolved overlaps between industrial, biodiversity and community interests. We request a detailed status update on all sector plans, an explanation of inconsistencies identified, and confirmation of whether small‑scale fishers and coastal communities were adequately consulted.

On MPA expansion and the 30×30 target, we request further clarity on the scientific methods, socio‑economic assessments, and data sources informing the identification of new conservation areas. We also seek confirmation on whether traditional and Indigenous knowledge—including seasonal ecological knowledge, customary use patterns, and community mapping—is being incorporated into the evidence base, as this is crucial for equitable conservation outcomes.
Finally, given the climate‑related pressures on coastal ecosystems and livelihoods, we request clarity on how climate‑resilience data and projections are being integrated into MSP and MPA planning.
In light of these concerns, we respectfully request:

An opportunity to engage the Committee directly during an upcoming meeting where the Department is present; or
Written responses from the Department once the Committee has posed these questions.

We thank the Committee for its continued oversight and stand ready to contribute constructively to strengthening South Africa’s marine governance.

Allan Basajjasubi
Senior Programme Officer: Affirming Rights
Natural Justice