The MEC for Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development, in the Northern Cape, Mr Norman Shushu has handed over six crayfish boats and other fishing equipments to the tune of R1.8 million rand to the Hoderklipbaai Fisheries Project, on the 22nd Friday 2013.
MEC Shushu said the Namakwa communities must work together to build sustainable livelihoods in order to improve their own living conditions. He challenged them to practice responsible fishing and not run after profit while the community is starving.
The MEC assured them that the department is in consultation with their National counter-parts to address the issue of fishing permits and quotas. He added that
He said his department has set aside R1.3 million for the 2013/14 financial year from Ilima/Letsema budget to upgrade the factory in the Honderklipbaai.
Fishing is the source of employment opportunity and poverty relief for about 23 commercial fishers in Honderklipbaai. Six Primary Cooperative have benefited from the from the MEC’s handing over. The project is funded through the Comprehensive Agriculture Support Programme (CASP).
Meanwhile Honderklipbaai Secondary Fishing Cooperative, Secretary, Mr Patrick Rulph welcomed the handing over with open hands. He highlighted that he is optimistic that the issue of permits and quotas will be addressed by the office of the MEC. Mr Rulph said his dream is to see other fishing communities along the Coast learning from them through working together.
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