Cape town: Forestry and fisheries are proving to be powerful engines of rural and coastal development, directly fueling South Africa’s economic growth. Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr. Dion George, on Wednesday highlighted how these sectors are creating jobs, supporting families, and driving transformation in areas often overlooked in the country’s growth story.
According to South African Government News Agency, agriculture, forestry, and fishing recorded strong growth in late 2024 and early 2025, providing a vital boost to the national GDP at a time when other industries faced pressure. At the heart of this momentum is the Commercial Forestry Master Plan, adopted in 2019, which charts a course for inclusive growth. As part of the plan, state-owned plantations are being transferred to communities, opening opportunities in timber production and processing industries, and generating jobs in rural areas.
On the fisheries front, the department has formally recognized about 10,000 small-scale fishers, organized into 171 cooperatives across four provinces. With support in co-management, abalone ranching, and mentorship, these cooperatives are gaining access to resources that increase income and resilience. The Fishing for Freedom campaign is also breathing new life into South Africa’s harbors, turning them into hubs of economic activity. Revitalized harbors are now supporting fish processing, boat repair, tourism, and hospitality, ensuring that coastal towns become vibrant centers of growth.
Minister George emphasized that environmental stewardship is not in conflict with job creation. Rather, it is the foundation of jobs, as evidenced by the support for cooperatives and the revitalization of harbors. He added that the growth of forestry and fisheries demonstrates how green industries can deliver prosperity while safeguarding resources for the future. By planting trees, empowering cooperatives, and revitalizing harbors, South Africa is showing that rural and coastal economies are leading the country’s growth story.