President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed the Marine Pollution (Prevention of Pollution from Ships) Amendment Bill into law, introducing stricter measures to safeguard South Africa’s oceans from ship-related pollution.
In a statement on Tuesday, the Presidency emphasized the legislation’s role in both national and global efforts to protect the marine environment while ensuring the sustainable use of ocean resources.
With South Africa’s coastline spanning over 3,000 kilometers—from Namibia’s Atlantic shores to Mozambique’s Indian Ocean waters—the new law is seen as essential for protecting the country’s environmental and economic interests.
South Africa’s extensive exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and marine economy supported approximately 400,000 jobs in 2022 across industries such as shipping, construction, tourism, and fisheries.
“This law acknowledges that ships pose significant pollution risks, from oil spills to harmful chemical discharge, sewage, and garbage,” the Presidency stated.
The amendment aligns South Africa’s regulations with international standards by incorporating Annex IV and Annex VI of the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships.
- Annex IV establishes rules for the treatment and disposal of sewage from ships.
- Annex VI focuses on improving ship energy efficiency and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
The amended legislation also grants the Minister of Transport broader regulatory powers to prevent both air and sewage pollution from ships.
A key change in the law is the increase in penalties, with fines for serious offences rising from R500,000 to R10 million.
The stricter enforcement aims to enhance compliance and deter environmental violations, reinforcing South Africa’s commitment to marine conservation.
