A Qualitative Case Study on Socio-Economic Deficiency and Causes of Illegal Fishing in the Riverine Biodiversity of Eastern Cape, South Africa.

Sibonelo Thanda Mbanjwa

doi:10.51168/sjhrafrica.v6i6.1651

Authors

Sibonelo Thanda Mbanjwa Mangosuthu University of Technology P.O. Box 12363 Jacobs 4026 Durban, South Africa

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51168/sjhrafrica.v6i6.1651

Keywords:

Marginalization, Illegal, Unreported, Unregulated (IUU), COVID-19, Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), Gross Domestic Product GDP

Abstract

Background

Small-scale fishers in South Africa, particularly in the Western Cape, Eastern Cape, and KwaZulu-Natal, have historically faced exclusion from marine resource access and fishing rights. Despite policy reforms, Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing continues to threaten their livelihoods and the sustainability of coastal ecosystems. This study assesses the socio-economic impacts of IUU fishing and evaluates the effectiveness of recent regulatory reforms aimed at addressing fisher marginalization.

Methods

A mixed-methods approach was adopted, combining semi-structured interviews with 83 small-scale fishers and 10 policymakers, and quantitative analysis of fishing rights allocation data and economic loss indicators. The study applied a poverty, vulnerability, and marginalization framework to assess both policy outcomes and lived community experiences.

Results:

Findings indicate moderate progress through initial rights allocation and stakeholder engagement. However, over 65% of fishers reported income loss due to IUU fishing, and 54% experienced declining food security. Despite new regulatory frameworks, 42% of eligible fishers remain excluded due to restrictive eligibility criteria, and 29% perceive the process as influenced by elite capture. Only 18% had access to alternative livelihoods. Enforcement remains inadequate, with 71% citing poor monitoring of IUU fishing, which continues to erode legal fishers’ efforts and ecosystem stability.

Conclusion

While current reforms are a step forward, weak enforcement, exclusionary rights allocation, and limited livelihood alternatives undermine their effectiveness. These challenges reduce the resilience of small-scale fisheries and threaten long-term sustainability.

Recommendations

To improve outcomes, enforcement of IUU fishing regulations must be strengthened, eligibility criteria broadened, and targeted support provided for alternative livelihoods. A more inclusive, community-driven approach is essential for sustainable fisheries governance in South Africa.

Author Biography

Sibonelo Thanda Mbanjwa, Mangosuthu University of Technology P.O. Box 12363 Jacobs 4026 Durban, South Africa

Dr. Sibonelo Thanda Mbanjwa is a dedicated lecturer in the Department of Nature Conservation at Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT), South Africa. He holds a Ph.D. in Environmental Science and specializes in biodiversity conservation, sustainable development, and environmental education. Dr. Mbanjwa is deeply committed to community engagement, student mentorship, and the integration of indigenous knowledge systems into conservation practices. His work bridges academia and practical application, empowering students and communities through innovative teaching, research, and outreach initiatives.

References

BLANCHARD, J.L., et al., 2012. Global catch projections in marine fisheries. Science Advances, 2(1), e1602390.

CHIKODZI, D., 2021. Socio-economic development in rural South Africa: Challenges and opportunities. African Journal of Development Studies, 24(1), pp.45-62.

COELHO, R., et al., 2008. Technological advancements in IUU fishing: A global perspective. Fisheries Research, 92(1), pp.17-28.

WOOD, A., 2002. The development of management protocols for the sustainable utilization of living resources in the Eastern Cape estuaries. Unpublished draft document. Grahamstown: Coastal and Environmental Services.