Department of Transport, together with industry partners, commemorated World Maritime Day 2025 at Lagoon Beach Hotel, Cape Town, on 25 September 2025 under the global theme “Our Ocean, Our Obligation, and Our Opportunity.”

Deputy Minister of Transport, Mr. Mkhuleko Hlengwa, delivered the keynote address, calling for urgent action to protect oceans while unlocking opportunities for sustainable growth. He highlighted South Africa’s commitments amongst others to:

Develop a National Action Plan for Maritime Decarbonization in line with the IMO’s Net-Zero by 2050 target. Modernize ports and improve freight logistics to meet international benchmarks. Invest in greener fuels, renewable marine energy, and worker re-skilling to ensure a just energy transition.

Mr. Hlengwa also reaffirmed South Africa’s campaign for election to the IMO Council in December 2025, positioning the country as a leader in promoting Africa’s maritime interests, green shipping, and inclusive growth.The programme also focused on knowledge-sharing and youth engagement which includedA port visit for learners, exposing young people to maritime careers,Expert sessions on marine conservation, ocean knowledge, and pollution preventionLearners’ activities showcasing youth participation and awareness, andAn exhibition of maritime innovations and opportunities for the sector.“Let us view the ocean not merely as a resource to be exploited, but as a shared responsibility to be safeguarded,” Deputy Minister Hlengwa said in his keynote.

The event provided Mercy Ships South Africa with an opportunity to network with maritime role players, engage potential future volunteers, and raise awareness about the Mercy Ships mission and impact.