Department of Forestry, Fisheries & Environment 2024/25 Performance Plan; with Ministry

Meeting report

The Chairperson welcomed the Members, staff, and the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment to the meeting. He mentioned his uncertainty about who from the Department was on the platform. He explained that he had a cold due to taking a cold shower that morning due to a lack of electricity at his block in Acacia Park Parliamentary Village. He remarked that the Committee had received the documents on time and appreciated the DEFF team’s preparation.

The Chairperson inquired if the Minister or Deputy Minister was present.

Dr Dion George, Minister of Environment, Forestry, and Fisheries, confirmed his presence along with Deputy Minister Ms Bernice Swarts.

The Chairperson introduced himself and assured Dr George of the Committee's capability. He highlighted that the members prepare thoroughly for the meetings despite the volume of information.

Ministry’s opening remarks
Minister Dion George expressed his gratitude to the Chair and extended good morning wishes to the Committee, the officials online, and the Chairperson. He empathised with the Chair's cold, noting that he also had a cold due to his recent travel from climate negotiations in China to Cape Town, which was very cold. He was now in Pretoria but remained determined. He looked forward to working with the Committee, recognising their significant workload across multiple portfolios.

Minister George noted that Deputy Minister Mr Narend Singh was unable to attend due to another engagement but would meet the Committee soon. He handed over to Deputy Minister Swarts.

Deputy Minister Bernice Swarts said that the Department would be presenting its 2024/25 annual performance plan. She explained that, following recommendations from the Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, the Department had reduced the number of targets to focus on critical service delivery outputs. The plan was preliminary and would be revised to align with the priorities of the 7th Administration, guided by the Government of National Unity’s medium-term development plan.

Deputy Minister Swarts outlined the department's commitment to the constitutional mandate of ensuring a healthy environment and protecting natural resources for current and future generations. She highlighted their goal to address climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution, acknowledging South Africa’s challenges with extreme weather patterns. She stated that the Department was dedicated to accelerating a transition to a low-carbon economy and a climate-resilient society, including working on emission targets and establishing a climate change response fund.

She detailed job creation initiatives, including the Extended Public Works Programme (EPWP), aiming to create over 30 000 opportunities with significant allocations for women, youth, and persons with disabilities. She mentioned ongoing municipal cleaning and greening programmes and efforts to link communities with opportunities within forestry management, aligned with sustainable production and sector transformation.

Deputy Minister Swarts also discussed the department's focus on biodiversity and ocean conservation, including the Ramsar wetland site expansion strategy and efforts to combat poaching and illegal fishing. She highlighted the importance of strengthening environmental laws and regulatory frameworks to balance conservation with economic growth and job creation.

She introduced the Department’s team members, including Director General Ms Nomfundo Tshabalala, and other key personnel responsible for various aspects of the department’s work

Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment 2024/25 APP and Budget
Ms Nomfundo Tshabalala, DFFE Director-General, introduced herself and stated her role in leading the presentation, acknowledging the Deputy Minister’s earlier remarks and outlining the critical aspects of the presentation.

Purpose of the Presentation
The presentation aimed to outline the Department's mandate and strategic focus environmental context and alignment with government priorities. It was noted that the presentation was preliminary aligning with the Medium-Term Development Plan (MTPD) still under consultation.

Overview of Strategic Priorities
The presentation provided an overview of the DFFE’s strategic priorities and detailed targets for the 2024/25 period across the Department's nine programs. The Deputy Directors-General would elaborate on these aspects. It included a discussion of budget estimates and insights into plan resourcing.

Mandate and Vision
Ms Tshabalala emphasised the Department’s mandate derived from Chapter Two of the Constitution specifically Section 24 which guarantees the right to an environment not harmful to health and well-being ensuring sustainability for present and future generations. The Department’s vision is to foster a prosperous and equitable society living in harmony with natural resources. Its mission is to provide leadership in environmental management conservation and protection promoting sustainability for South Africans and the global community.

Values and Environmental Context
The Department's values include passion proactivity people-centricity integrity and performance. The presentation addressed the environmental context influencing the Annual Performance Plan (APP) noting global environmental threats such as climate change and ecosystem degradation. In response the Department has developed a national adaptation strategy to enhance sectoral adaptation and build societal resilience to climate change.

Key Programmes and Strategies
Key programs informing the APP include the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) the Forestry Master Plan the Oceans Economy and the Biodiversity Economy. The Department is working on a coordinated permitting system for environmental management to improve turnaround times for authorisations and licensing supporting economic development.

National Waste Management Strategy
The National Waste Management Strategy implemented in collaboration with provincial and local governments as well as industry stakeholders aims to unlock economic opportunities. The impact of fiscal constraints on departmental operations and funding was acknowledged with a commitment to government priorities including employment equity targets with a focus on women and people with disabilities.

Alignment with New Priorities
The Department will align with the new priorities of the 7th Administration as announced by the President. This involves promoting good governance maintaining an unqualified audit opinion and pursuing economic transformation. The Department plans to support previously disadvantaged businesses and communities through various initiatives including the biodiversity economy value chain and benefit-sharing agreements.

Implementation of Key Policies
The presentation covered the implementation of the White Paper on conservation and the Sustainable Use of South Africa’s Biodiversity the Section 29 plan for tyre waste management and the extended producer responsibility scheme. Skills development human resource capacity and environmental quality assessments were highlighted as key focus areas.

Compliance and Enforcement Targets
Ms Tshabalala explained that the focus includes the appeals and strategic environmental instrument and sector knowledge and information management. Primary targets involve improving compliance with environmental legislation and addressing environmental threats. Efforts include inspecting 195 authorisations for compliance opening 46 criminal investigation dockets in collaboration with the police and issuing 270 administrative enforcement notices.

Oceans and Coasts Programme
The oceans and coasts programme provides strategic leadership on conservation covering integrated coastal management coastal conservation research the oceans economy project management and specialist monitoring services. Targets include producing an annual water quality report on heavy metal and agricultural sewage contamination in partnership with the Department of Water and Sanitation publishing a marine spatial planning plan declaring two Marine Protected Areas and conducting three annual research expeditions.

Climate Change and Air Quality
The programme addresses climate change mitigation and adaptation air quality management and international climate relations. Plans include submitting sectoral emissions targets for cabinet approval publishing a high-priority air quality management plan and proposing a climate change response fund with a goal to secure R100 million through donor funding to support environmental programmes.

Biodiversity and Conservation
The biodiversity and conservation programme includes managing biodiversity permitting protected area systems and biodiversity monitoring. Targets involve expanding the conservation estate by 90 000 hectares designating one Ramsar site and developing a biodiversity management plan focusing on black and white rhinos. They also aim to support 100 previously disadvantaged businesses and communities within the biodiversity economy value chain.

Environmental Programmes Sector
The sector focuses on job creation and environmental protection with targets to create 22 538 full-time equivalent jobs generate 31 075 work opportunities clear invasive plant species from 295 000 hectares rehabilitate 23 wetlands and manage 90% of wildfires. Budget cuts have adversely affected this sector.

Chemicals and Waste Management
The programme is responsible for implementing and enforcing policies and legislation with key targets including amending industrial persistent organic pollutant regulations reducing hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) consumption by 60% by 2040 and processing 45 000 tonnes of waste tyres. It also aims to support municipalities in waste diversion and conduct municipal cleaning campaigns.

Forestry Management
Forestry management involves developing and implementing policies for forest management and sustainable use. Targets include addressing 1 800 hectares of temporarily unplanted areas managing 2 100 hectares of plantations transferring plantations to communities and planting 150 000 trees. They work with industry sectors and human settlements to integrate afforestation into housing projects.

Fisheries Management
Fisheries management encompasses aquaculture development monitoring control and surveillance. Goals include submitting an Aquaculture Development Bill to Parliament implementing a national freshwater wild capture fisheries action plan conducting inspections in six priority fisheries verifying rights holders’ compliance and supporting small-scale fisheries. The EPWP also contributes to job creation within this sector.

Budget Cuts and Resource Management
Ms Tshabalala highlighted that the Department is managing a budget cut of R2.5 billion over a three-year period significantly impacting their environmental programmes. The budget for 2024/25 is R8.7 billion with an increase to R8.9 billion in the following year and R9.3 billion in the outer year. These budget cuts have particularly affected services facilities management and vessel maintenance, but DFFE is working to manage resources effectively and seek support from National Treasury to address these challenges.

The Chairperson clarified that the presentation should include everything that had been prepared for the Committee. He had noticed marine resources in the documentation and sought confirmation on whether the presentation would deal with the Marine Living Resources Fund.

Marine Living Resources Fund
Ms Sue Middleton, DFFE Deputy Director-General: Fisheries Management, explained that the Marine Living Resources Fund (MLRF) is managed by the Fisheries Management branch, which falls under Programme 9 of the department. The MLRF is a Schedule 3A public entity without its own board, being overseen by the Department’s executive authority.

Presentation Overview
Ms Middleton briefly noted that many deliverables and programme details had already been presented by the Director-General. She pointed out that the MLRF has three additional deliverables beyond those outlined in Programme 9. She suggested a quick review of the presentation slides, focusing on key areas rather than detailed content.

Legislative Mandate and Context
The presentation outlined the legislative mandate of the MLRF derived from the Constitution and various policies and legislative frameworks. Slide 6 provided context for the MLRF operations, noting that in the current financial year, commercial fishing rights have been allocated across 10 sectors, and the appeals process is nearing completion. The goal is to enhance stability in the commercial fishing sector until the next allocation process in 2032. Small-scale fishing rights have been finalised in the Western Cape, with a focus shifting to capacity building and support for small-scale cooperatives. The Aquaculture Development Bill will be tabled to streamline approvals and improve the competitiveness of South Africa's aquaculture sector, contributing to food safety and security. A key challenge remains addressing illegal fishing, particularly in nearshore areas.

Mandate and Priorities
Slides 7 and 8, which Ms Middleton did not elaborate on, highlighted the mandate of the MLRF and the Fisheries Department to ensure sustainable and orderly access to marine living resources through improved management and regulation. The Director-General had previously covered the organisational structure.

Review of Marine Living Resources Act
Slide 9 focused on high-level priorities for the year. The review of the Marine Living Resources Act (Act 18 of 1998) and its regulations is set to begin, envisaged as a three to five-year process. The Consultative Advisory Forum (CAF) has made recommendations to improve the management of abalone and West Coast Rock lobster and support the small-scale sector. The aim is to implement all CAF recommendations for the current financial year.

Challenges and Budgetary Issues
Ms Middleton highlighted challenges, including budget constraints affecting vessel operating costs for both research and fishery patrol vessels. These issues raise concerns about fulfilling the department’s mandate. Additional challenges include ongoing cost containment and the inability to fully cover costs due to budget cuts. The department is also now tasked with delivering on freshwater and inland fisheries without allocated funding, an issue raised with National Treasury.

Additional Deliverables
Under Programme 9, the MLRF has three additional deliverables not covered by Programme 9. These include conducting 40 joint operations with partners. For the Working for Fisheries programme, funded by National Treasury and falling under the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP), targets include providing 773 full-time equivalent jobs and 1 545 work opportunities for the year.

Budget Projections
Ms Middleton provided an overview of the MLRF’s medium-term expenditure budget projections, starting with R448 million for 2024/25, decreasing to R438 million in 2025/26, and slightly increasing to R457 million in 2026/27.

Minister’s remarks
Dr George noted that the Department had covered the areas significantly. Questions and further engagement would follow. The Minister pointed out that the Department had experienced substantial budget cuts of R2.5 billion over the medium-term framework, which would impact its operations going forward. In response, the Department has developed a specific strategy focusing on entities capable of generating income. Additionally, as highlighted by the Deputy Minister, the new Government of National Unity (GNU) is currently re-evaluating its priorities. One of the Department’s priorities will be to leverage natural assets for job creation, economic growth, and revenue generation.

Discussion
The Chairperson thanked the Minister, the team, and the Deputy Minister for the presentation, including the teaching aspects. He noted that, from preparing for the meeting, he observed the significance of having two Deputy Ministers in the department. He felt this was crucial given the department's extensive responsibilities, covering various programs such as solutions and costs, climate change, air quality, biodiversity, environmental issues, chemical and waste management, forestry, and fisheries management. The Chairperson expressed that it was overwhelming to process all the information, especially marine issues and the Marine Living Resources Fund. He mentioned a specific example of a marine-focused school in his area, highlighting the depth of work required in this field.

The Chairperson looked forward to learning from the Minister, the Deputy Ministers, and the team led by the Director-General, as well as Members. He appreciated that some Members had previously served on the Committee and could contribute to moving forward. He requested that Members raise their hands to indicate their intention to engage.

Mr B Farmer (PA, Western Cape) was inaudible, so Ms Boshoff wasto proceed instead.

Ms S Boshoff (DA, Mpumalanga) congratulated the new Minister on his appointment. She assured both the Minister and his Deputies of her support, as long as it aligns with the framework of the Government of National Unity (GNU) Statement of Intent. She was new to this committee and asked to be corrected if her questions were misplaced.

Her first question concerned rhino poaching. She noted that in 2023, 499 rhinos were poached, an increase of 51 from 2022, and South Africa now has only 2 000 black rhinos classified as critically endangered, along with about 13 000 white rhinos, which are near threatened. She asked the Minister and the Department to outline the programs in place to address rhino poaching. She inquired about the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, which had convicted 45 poachers and traffickers in the previous year, questioning whether this directorate has adequate funding and capacity to continue its work.

Ms Boshoff mentioned that the Kruger National Park had experienced a decrease in poaching, but the adjacent Klaserie Private Nature Reserve had seen an increase. She noted that $2.1 million had been allocated to improve the fencing of the Klaserie Reserve and requested an update whether this fencing had been erected and if it has helped curb poaching.

She asked about the Department's programs to ensure the safety of rhinos, including any initiatives involving roadblocks and ambushes. Regarding donations for anti-poaching efforts, she sought clarification on the amount received and the sourcing of such funds.

Ms Boshoff then addressed coastal discharge, asking how many applications for coastal water discharge permits were received in 2022/23, and whether these permits were issued within the prescribed time. She sought an explanation of what constitutes personal discharge, the duration of such licenses, and the financial implications for applicants. She also wanted to know what measures are taken to ensure compliance with regulations.

She referenced the waste management plans and asked when the Department plans to extend these programs to the other seven provinces, as currently, only two provinces have them in place.

Regarding small-scale fisheries, Ms Boshoff inquired about the number of applications for fishing rights received in 2023 and how many were issued. She also asked if these applications are being processed in accordance with regulations.

Finally, she questioned the Department’s regulations for both small-scale and large-scale fishers, given the reduction of the total allowable catch for rock lobster by approximately 16% for 2023-2024. She asked how the Department ensures adherence to these regulations and monitors compliance to prevent depletion of ocean resources.

Mr P Mabilo (ANC, Northern Cape) acknowledged the importance of the oversight role and assured the Minister and the team of their support. He welcomed the presentation by the Director-General (DG) which outlined the nine programmes, finding it very helpful for a deeper understanding. Mr Mabilo then posed a few questions:

Mr Mabilo, representing a coastal province, the Northern Cape, asked about the current state of the international ocean economy. He wanted to know the progress, developments, and impacts in this sector.

He highlighted the significance of climate change as a pressing issue affecting the entire world, including their immediate environment. Mr Mabilo inquired about the state of readiness, preparedness, and capacity of municipalities to respond to climate change effects, given that the poor and vulnerable, particularly those in informal settlements, are disproportionately affected. He asked if the Department is assisting municipalities in concrete terms to address these challenges.

On air quality, Mr Mabilo referred to the mandate derived from Section 24 of the Constitution, which guarantees the right to a healthy environment. He questioned if there is sufficient monitoring capacity at the municipal level for compliance, particularly for industries. He provided an example of a cement factory near Kimberley and asked how often such industries are monitored and what measures are being taken to address any issues.

Finally, Mr Mabilo addressed biodiversity, focusing on the game and exotic game industry. He expressed concern that this sector remains dominated by historically advantaged groups and lacks transformation. He inquired about the Department’s intervention mechanisms to promote transformation and ensure broader participation from youth, women, and people with disabilities in the biodiversity sector.

Ms N Mcinga (EFF, Eastern Cape) introduced herself as the alternate for Ms Kennedy, who could not attend. She had found the presentation informative but questioned why the maritime sector remains under-transformed even after 30 years of democracy.

She highlighted that, despite discussions on issues like rhino poaching and fisheries, there appears to be a lack of progress in transforming the industry and benefiting rural communities. She cited Hamburg in the Eastern Cape as an example, where many people engage in fishing, both with and without licences, yet the community remains underserved.

Ms Mcinga also mentioned Coffee Bay, which, despite being a tourist attraction, suffers from high poverty rates. She questioned why DFFE does not implement programmes to empower rural communities, such as providing bursaries and exploring how many locals are interested in marine industries.

Ms Mcinga said that the presentation seemed to address a certain class rather than the needs of the people. Its objectives should focus on developing South Africa into an international maritime centre and promoting local entrepreneurs in shipping and marine industries.

Ms Mcinga stated that she would be writing to the Minister for written responses on the presentation. She thanked the Chairperson for organising the meeting and assured that the Minister would hear from her soon.

Mr H Van den Berg (FF+, Northern Cape) posed a question on maritime protection, focusing on the offshore fishing challenges close to the South African coast and its impact on fishing populations. He inquired about the measures in place to mitigate this and the effectiveness of these measures.

He also raised a question about the integration of different departments in addressing environmental issues. He referred to the problem of sewage and other pollutants entering lakes, dams, and water bodies. He asked how various departments are collaborating to tackle these issues and how successful these efforts have been in combating pollution.

Mr N Pienaar (DA, Limpopo) appreciated the informative presentation. He had three main questions for DFFE, which he felt required urgent attention.

The first question concerned illegal fishing, particularly by international trawlers from China. These illegal vessels are causing significant harm to the fishing industry and impacting coastal towns. What measures are being taken to address this, specifically how DFFE plans to intercept and stop these vessels before they enter South African waters.

His second question was directed at the DDG for Air Quality. He asked about the air quality exemptions currently granted to the Medupi and Matimba power stations, which are located in Limpopo. He expressed concern that these exemptions contribute to unhealthy atmospheric conditions for local residents and the broader community. He asked when these exemptions would be removed and the plans in place to address the air quality standards at these power stations.

Lastly, Mr Pienaar raised a question about the integrated permit system mentioned by the DG. He wanted to know if the new system would simplify processes and reduce red tape for the industry or if it would complicate matters. What are the costs associated with the system, the development timeline, and the expected rollout date? He emphasised the need for efficient and practical solutions to benefit the industry and communities.

Ms M Kennedy (EFF, Limpopo) was concerned about regulatory compliance and monitoring. As a representative from Limpopo, she observed issues with the EPWP, where workers are often seen resting under trees instead of performing their duties. This suggests a lack of effective monitoring and oversight, undermining the programme's goal of promoting good governance. Ms Kennedy asked that DFFE address this and ensure that EPWP workers are actively engaged in their work.

Additionally, she raised concerns about illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, which she identified as a significant problem for the fishing industry. Has DFFE monitoring and planning strategies in place to combat this escalating issue and reduce the corruption associated with IUU fishing.

The Chairperson informed Mr Farmer, who was trying to speak again, that his connection was extremely poor and he was inaudible. He suggested that he send written questions.

The Chairperson addressed the Minister and Deputy Minister, expressing the need for presentations to be more focused on provincial issues and work in the provinces, as Select Committee members were interested in the activities relevant to their province. Members were present to address provincial mandates and requested that future presentations provide detailed information on the distribution of jobs created through the EPWP, as well as numbers for women, youth, and people with disabilities.

The Chairperson requested that the next report include specific data on interventions in provinces, such as the Free State air quality issues related to mining and the situation in coastal areas, including measures taken against vessel hijackings. They needed detailed, province-specific reports in future engagements for better oversight and understanding.

Minister response
Minister George acknowledged the broadband challenge and switched off his video for better connectivity. He noted the importance of focusing on provincial matters, recognising that the National Council of Provinces specifically addresses provincial concerns. He cited specific examples, such as coastal storms in KwaZulu-Natal, the Eastern Cape, and the Western Cape due to climate change, droughts in the Northern Cape and inland provinces, and the need for a focused approach in Mpumalanga during the transition from coal to other energy sources. He assured the Chairperson that the need to focus on provinces was well understood and that they would address the numerous portfolios.

Dr George asked the DG to respond to as many questions as possible, followed by the Deputy Minister, and he would do a brief wrap-up afterward.

Department response
Director General Tshabalala assured the Chairperson that they would indeed focus on provincial DFFE programmes. She requested the DDGs to respond to the specific questions within their areas of expertise, starting with regulatory compliance and followed by oceans and fisheries.

Ms Vanessa Bendeman, DFFE DDG: Regulatory Compliance and Sector Monitoring, briefly switched on her camera for identification before turning it off to avoid connectivity issues.

On the increase in rhino poaching, Ms Bendeman explained that after a concerted effort to reduce poaching in Kruger National Park, poaching activity shifted to Hluhluwe and Umfolozi. She outlined DFFE’s strategies to combat rhino poaching and wildlife trafficking as a whole, mentioning the National Integrated Strategy to Combat Wildlife Trafficking (Niska), the Priority Committee on Wildlife Trafficking, the Environmental Enforcement Fusion Centre, and an Analyst Unit that aids in data analysis and information gathering to support the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA). She highlighted the Integrated Wildlife Zone Project, the Digital Forensic Laboratory, and donor-funded projects, all of which contribute to combating wildlife trafficking.

Ms Bendeman acknowledged the need for a collaborative approach due to capacity constraints and noted that DFFE works closely with the South African Police Service (SAPS), State Security Agency, Department of Defence, Border Management Authority, and South African Revenue Service. She informed the Committee that the fencing at Hluhluwe was nearly complete but requested time to provide exact figures on funding in writing.

On the integrated permitting system, Ms Bendeman explained that an initial attempt through the State Information Technology Agency (SITA) to create such a system proved complex and time-consuming. To avoid creating additional red tape, DFFE has engaged with the One-Stop Shop unit under the Presidency to develop a system that simplifies environmental authorisations without increasing the burden on applicants.

Ms Tshabalala asked Ms Craigie to respond about the Kruger National Park. She acknowledged the importance of the strategies and collaboration with enforcement bodies.

Ms Frances Craigie, DDG: Enforcement, DFFE, emphasised the essential collaboration with provinces in countering rhino poaching. Through the Nat Joints Priority Committee, they reach out to the provincial committees where conservation entities, provincial departments, and officials work closely with the police and the private sector which plays a crucial role since many rhinos are on private reserves.

While poaching had decreased in Kruger National Park, the threat had displaced to Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park. The National Department had funded a smart fence there, enabling surveillance and monitoring. The CEO of Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife had also engaged with community leaders to highlight the fence's importance in preventing both rhino poaching and human-wildlife conflict. There was a recent intensive dehorning program in Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park, which had contributed to a drop in poaching.

Ms Craigie addressed other enforcement issues, including those in the cement industry in Kimberley, Northern Cape. DFFE, together with provincial authorities, had previously conducted plant monitoring and enforcement, bringing many facilities into compliance. If new problems had arisen, they would work with provincial colleagues to address them.

She spoke about sewage issues, noting the concurrent competency between the DFFE and the Department of Water and Sanitation. Inland sewage issues are handled by Water Affairs, while coastal issues fall under the DFFE's compliance and enforcement officials. The DFFE focuses on wastewater treatment works polluting the coast and collaborates with Water and Sanitation, SALGA, and municipal support structures to address these challenges. Sewage pollution is a significant problem requiring more emphasis.

Ms Tshabalala requested DDG Acting DG Oceans and Coastal to respond about the oceans economy and the coastal discharge permits.

Ms Radia Razack, Acting Deputy Director-General: Oceans and Coasts, DFFE, explained that the development and progress of the ocean economy was initiated several years ago with Operation Phakisa. This operation led to the declaration of additional initiatives such as the incident management system. Presently, they are developing an Ocean Economy Master Plan aimed at stabilising and growing subsectors within the ocean economy to enhance job creation and GDP contribution. The master plan, currently in development, is expected to be finalised by the end of the financial year.

The Master Plan covers broad ocean-based subsectors including marine manufacturing, repairs, marine transport, freight logistics, cargo (championed by the Department of Transport), aquaculture (handled by DFFE), and offshore oil and gas (handled by the Department of Mineral Resources). The development of the plan is led by DFFE, but its implementation will be coordinated with respective sector departments.

For DFFE, key initiatives within the Ocean Economy include marine protection, legislation updates, capacity building, enhanced compliance and enforcement coordination, an ocean and coastal information system (Oceans), water quality monitoring, creation of a marine protected area network, research and monitoring programmes, and marine spatial planning.

Ms Razack explained that empowering community members through various opportunities in the ocean economy is a significant undertaking. DFFE works with institutions like the South African International Maritime Institute (SAIMI) to promote marine courses and bursaries, along with a youth development programme.

On coastal waters discharge permits, Ms Razack explained that these permits regulate the discharge of effluent, which is liquid waste containing contaminants. Various industries, including Transnet and fish processing establishments, must ensure their effluent is within acceptable limits to avoid compromising the receiving marine environment. The permits specify acceptable contaminant levels and require quarterly scientific reports and annual reports to monitor compliance.

The compliance inspections are conducted jointly with the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) and provincial authorities. Ms Razack mentioned that there are 16 permits nationally, with 11 submitted on time and five pending additional information and public participation processes. Permits are valid for up to 10 years, and while there are no current fees, DFFE is exploring an annual user charge in consultation with National Treasury.

Ms Razack emphasised the importance of public participation in the permitting process, particularly when contaminants affect many stakeholders. Compliance inspections are conducted both regularly and in response to specific complaints.

Mr Maesela Kekana, DDG: Climate Change and Air Quality Management, DFFE, explained that DFFE works with municipalities through initiatives like the Cities Resilience Forum, which helps metros integrate climate change issues into their development plans. DFFE has collaborated with 257 municipalities, including eight metros and 44 district municipalities, to develop climate change response plans. Additionally, 205 local municipalities have been assisted in conducting vulnerability assessments and creating response plans.

With the Climate Change Act now in force, DFFE will review these plans and continue to support municipalities in implementing them. The Act facilitates collaboration between national and local spheres, particularly in mobilising financial resources for climate change initiatives.

Mr Kekana clarified a point on donations, stating that the figure mentioned referred to resources mobilised, not donations. Last year, DFFE mobilised approximately $319 million, with $200 million allocated to the Development Bank of South Africa for its climate change programme. The remaining funds were obtained through negotiations with the Global Environment Facility, making them available for various entities to apply for. These funds do not go directly to DFFE but are disbursed to relevant role players.

Mr Kekana addressed concerns about the capacity of local municipalities to monitor and manage climate change initiatives. Local municipalities issue atmospheric emission licenses with stipulations to reduce environmental impact. These municipalities require facilities to submit monitoring reports, which are verified by external parties to ensure compliance.

On the exemptions for the Medupi power station in Limpopo, Mr Kekana confirmed that the exemption granted in 2020 is set to expire on 31 March 2025. There has been no indication yet if there will be another application for postponement to meet the required standards.

Mr Khorommbi Matibe, DFFE Chief Directorate: Biodiversity Economy and Sustainable Use, highlighted the immense potential of the biodiversity sector to address the socio-economic challenges facing South Africa.

DFFE has identified bottlenecks that inhibit the full and meaningful participation of previously disadvantaged individuals (PDIs) in the sector. Many communities provide resources but do not actively run businesses. DFFE, led by the Minister, is committed to addressing these issues and providing necessary support to enable meaningful participation.

To achieve this, DFFE has established Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with the Department of Agriculture, the Department of Small Business, the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC), and the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI). They also collaborate with academic institutions, such as Stellenbosch University and the University of Venda, and the Department of Traditional Affairs. The biodiversity sector currently sustains over 418 000 jobs, primarily in rural areas.

DFFE interventions include accredited training and support for SMEs, women, youth, and PDIs to equip them with the skills needed to enter and thrive in the sector. Courses such as game farm management are offered, often in partnership with the Land Claims Commission and the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development.

Another key programme is market access support. DFFE works with DTIC and DSI to ensure that small enterprises, which convert indigenous resources into medicinal or cosmetic products, can access markets. They also collaborate with industry associations.

The game donation programme aims to increase PDI participation in the sector. This year, the target is to donate 2 888 game, an increase from last year's 1 163. This programme is supported by management authorities across provinces.

DFFE has secured significant funding to support emerging entrepreneurs in wildlife prospecting and ecotourism businesses. Close to R32.4 billion has been allocated for infrastructure and facilities. Additionally, the Biodiversity Investment Portal has been launched to connect businesses with equity funding, donor funding, and strategic partnerships.

DFFE aims to increase PDI participation from the current 4% to 25% in the next 10 to 15 years. They are partnering with the UNDP on initiatives like the GEF 6 and GEF 7 small grant programmes, which support businesses in sectors such as honeybush cultivation, similar to the rooibos industry. Through these programmes, 13 to 15 small businesses in the Western Cape and Eastern Cape will receive support.

DFFE is developing the Sustainable Wildlife Economy Standard and Certification Schemes to ensure industry players adhere to quality and compliance standards. This will enhance the marketability of products from SMEs and established businesses, ensuring they meet European and other international standards.

In conclusion, Mr Matibe emphasised DFFE's commitment to supporting SMEs across South Africa to ensure they thrive in the biodiversity sector.

Mr Masopha Moshoeshoe, Acting CEO of the Waste Bureau, mentioned that he would switch off his video to conserve bandwidth. He explained that the expansion of waste tyre collection and processing, as well as the development of new depots and facilities, was essential given the new paradigm since March when Cabinet approved the industry waste tyre management plan. Since the Waste Bureau took over sector management under an interim arrangement, Cabinet approval allowed a more comprehensive approach.

He stated that the industry waste management plan constituted subordinate legislation binding on all ecosystem players, strengthening the Waste Bureau's hand in addressing non-compliance. Waste tyres were being generated annually at a higher rate than processed, leading to overly full storage locations and regulatory non-compliance. He emphasised the need to develop a significant local processing sector to create benefits like sector investment, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) opportunities, and job creation.

He outlined that a large portion of the plan focused on developing a robust local processing sector with several interventions, including financial incentives for new greenfield entities and market creation for their products, such as rubber bitumen in road construction. He mentioned that internationally, tyres were often used in the cement kiln sector as a partial substitute for coal, supporting road construction with additional rubber bitumen.

He explained that some elements required the displacement of existing products, like imported bitumen, and capital upgrades for using whole or shredded tyres in cement kilns, necessitating financial support for crammers and pyrolysis plants. He pointed out that facility locations depended on tyre utilisation and generation, typically in large urban areas, with over 30 depots providing significant coverage. Other generation sources, like original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and tyre manufacturing facilities in Gqeberha, and sectors like mining in Northern Cape, Mpumalanga, and Limpopo, which had been under-serviced, also required assistance.

He described efficiency-related interventions, including site and depot requirements procurement, and building additional processing capacity supported by tyre production in the required form and quantity. Depots would function more like transfer stations, facilitating efficient tyre processing rather than long-term storage.

He acknowledged budget restrictions and ongoing engagement with National Treasury on the Bureau's business plan submission, as per legislative requirements. The Bureau and DFFE currently received less than 50% of the waste tyre levy and needed additional resources to meet the industry's growth mandate.

He concluded by noting the planned expansion of the micro-collector and micro-depot networks to a national programme, initially operating in Gauteng and the Western Cape, but requiring extension to all nine provinces, pending additional funding resources.

Ms Sue Middleton, DFFE Deputy Director-General: Fisheries Management, in answer to the first question on fisheries, replied that there were 62 small-scale cooperatives in the Western Cape. There were two registered small-scale cooperatives in the Northern Cape, which were allocated 15-year rights in 2019, 72 cooperatives in the Eastern Cape, and 35 in KwaZulu-Natal, both of which were allocated 15-year rights in 2020 just before the COVID-19 lockdown. In the Western Cape, the Minister had to go to court to have the process set aside due to contestation, but in October 2023, the 62 cooperatives were finalised and allocated fishing rights just before the opening of the West Coast Rock Lobster fishing season. The appeals closed in February 2024 and were finalised just before the national elections, thereby completing the small-scale allocations in all four coastal provinces.

Ms Middleton addressed the decrease in the total allowable catch for West Coast Rock Lobster, affirming that there had been a reduction over several years due to the species being overfished and in danger of serious decline. A consultative advisory forum to the Minister had reviewed the status of the West Coast Rock Lobster resource and made various recommendations to address and reverse the stock status. DFFE was finalising a multi-pronged recovery strategy for the West Coast Rock Lobster, focusing on working with the small-scale fisheries sector in co-management structures to jointly manage the resource for future generations.

Ms Middleton explained the mechanisms in place for monitoring landings in all fisheries, including permit conditions requiring fishers to inform fishery control officers before launching and returning vessels. Inspectors could inspect landings, and catch data monitors recorded and weighed the fish under the Working for Fisheries Programme. Right holders were required to submit landing slips to DFFE one month after landing the fish. Fishery control officers were stationed around the coast, and patrol vessels could inspect vessels at sea to ensure compliance.

Addressing questions from two Members about illegal fishing by Chinese trawlers, Ms Middleton stated that there was no evidence to support claims of Chinese trawlers fishing illegally and devastating fish stocks. She explained that South Africa did not allow foreign fishing in its territorial waters, and while foreign vessels could pass through with prior permission, they had to stow all fishing gear and keep their vessel monitoring system on. South Africa had the right to inspect all foreign vessels in its ports under the United Nations' port state measures.

Ms Middleton replied about illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, noting that the biggest threat in South Africa came from near-shore species like West Coast Rock Lobster, abalone, and traditional linefish, which were easily accessible and often exported to Far East countries. There was syndicated crime involved in these fisheries, similar to rhino poaching, and mentioned joint operations with other law enforcement agencies, including Operation Phakisa, as well as recovery strategies for abalone and West Coast Rock Lobster. DFFE was setting up co-management structures under the small-scale fisheries programme to ensure the management of these near-shore resources.

Ms Middleton stated that to DFFE’s knowledge, there had been no hijacking of any fisheries vessels in South African waters.

Director-General Ntshabalala acknowledged the validity of Ms Kennedy's concern that the EPWP is monitored to ensure productivity and effectiveness on the ground. In response, she explained that DFFE employs project managers and collaborates closely with municipalities where EPWP projects are located. This collaboration involves daily monitoring, signing of registers, and identifying individuals not performing their duties, which directly affects their salaries. DFFE has strengthened the role of project managers and municipal officials to address the challenge of some EPWP workers not being productive on the ground. As the EPWP initiatives continue to roll out, even more stringent controls will be implemented.

The Chairperson acknowledged the immense size of DFFE. This introductory meeting highlighted the extensive nature of their future oversight work as a Select Committee. He anticipated that future sessions, based on real observations, would involve even more rigorous discussions, suggesting that four or five hours might not suffice in the future.

The Chairperson extended his best wishes to the Minister, the two deputy ministers, and the team led by the Director General, noting that the next five years would be challenging. He mentioned the initial learning curve of understanding DFFE terminology and operations, using the example of discussions about West Coast Rock Lobster.

He assured the Minister and the team of the Committee's support, emphasising their availability and willingness to assist. He encouraged the Minister to invite Committee members to relevant activities, such as visits to the harbour, to better understand DFFE's work. The Chairperson expressed a desire for a collaborative relationship, where DFFE shares its vision and goals, allowing the Committee to provide meaningful support.

He highlighted the importance of maintaining professional relationships, even during heated discussions, ensuring that disagreements do not become personal or affect interactions outside of formal meetings. The Chairperson reaffirmed the Committee's readiness to be informed of urgent matters, promising to promptly address any critical reports or issues.

In conclusion, the Chairperson assured the Minister of the Committee's unwavering support.

Minister’s Closing Remarks
Minister George expressed his gratitude to the Chairperson, acknowledging the time constraints and appreciating the kind words. He assured that DFFE would always be available to account to and participate in the Committee's work. It was a privilege serving as Minister and he committed to ensuring the success of both DFFE and the country.

Dr George mentioned the Chairperson's desire to understand DFFE better and extended an invitation to the Committee for a workshop. He suggested that the workshop could take place at Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, where the Deputy Directors General could provide detailed insights into their operations, with a specific focus on the provinces. He believed this would help the Committee quickly get up to speed with the vast portfolio.

The Minister reiterated his intention to manage the extensive portfolio with the help of the Deputy Ministers. He promised to coordinate with the Chairperson's office to schedule the workshop soon. Dr George appreciated the Committee's commitment.

Due to the upcoming National Assembly plenary session at 2pm, the Committee deferred consideration of the minutes and the meeting was adjourned.