Honouring Lives Lost at Sea: Laingville Marks World Fisheries Day 2025

At St Helena Bay yesterday, the Laingville Community Hall was filled with emotion, pride, and remembrance as the Fisheries and Aquaculture Development Institute (FADI) hosted a solemn yet inspiring World Fisheries Day Commemoration in honour of fishermen who have lost their lives at sea.

The event brought together families of fallen fishermen, local fishing communities, industry leaders, government representatives, and maritime stakeholders – united under the theme ‘Honouring the Past, Sustaining the Future.’ It served as both a memorial and a reaffirmation of the sector’s enduring role in sustaining coastal livelihoods.

A moving tribute to the fallen

The commemoration began with a moment of silence as names of fishermen lost over the years were read aloud, followed by the symbolic lighting of candles. Representatives from the St Helena Bay fishing community, FADI officials, and clergy led prayers for the families who continue to live with the daily realities of life at sea.

In his welcoming address, Mr. Selwyn Roup FADI Trustee reflected on the deep ties between fishing and community identity.

“Every life lost at sea is a loss to a family, a community, and to South Africa’s maritime heritage. Today we honour their courage and commitment, and we recommit ourselves to making the fishing industry safer and more sustainable for generations to come,” he said.

Recognising the human cost of the sea

Speakers highlighted both the economic and emotional dimensions of the fisheries sector. Fishing remains one of the most dangerous occupations, with small-scale fishers often braving unpredictable weather, aging vessels, and limited safety equipment. Representatives from the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) and the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving maritime safety standards and ensuring greater protection for small-scale fishers.

A special memorial wall featuring photographs and names of local fishermen was unveiled during the event, as a reminder of the sacrifices made.

Community solidarity and cultural reflections

The day’s programme blended remembrance with cultural celebration. Family members shared personal stories, recalling fathers, brothers, and sons who were lost to the sea — stories that underscored both the pain of loss and the pride in a life dedicated to the ocean.

FADI’s role in sustainable development

The Fisheries and Aquaculture Development Institute (FADI), as the event host, emphasized the link between remembrance and forward-looking action. The organisation continues to play a vital role in skills development, safety awareness, and promoting sustainable fishing in coastal communities.

FADI representatives highlighted several of their ongoing initiatives, including:

• Training programmes for small-scale fishers on marine safety and responsible harvesting.
• Youth learnerships in aquaculture and fish processing to create sustainable employment.
• Partnerships with SAIMI, TETA, and industry stakeholders to promote blue economy opportunities for coastal youth.

“While today is a day of remembrance, it is also a call to action,” said FADI Project Manager, Mr. Sulaiman Appolles. “We must ensure that future generations inherit not only the sea’s bounty but also the knowledge to protect and respect it.”

Building a safer and more inclusive future

Families were presented with commemorative plaques in recognition of their loved ones’ contributions to the fishing heritage of the West Coast.

The event’s success reinforced the importance of community-driven initiatives in sustaining South Africa’s maritime identity. It also highlighted the growing role of institutions like FADI in bridging the gap between remembrance, training, and sustainable livelihoods.

As the sun set over St Helena Bay, one message resonated through the hall: the sea gives life, but it also demands respect – and those who have been lost will never be forgotten.