Oceans economy, blue economy, and security: notes on the South African potential and developments

ABSTRACT

The oceans economy is a crucial factor in global economic growth and development, offering not only great opportunities but also challenges and risks. Most activities related to our economic exploitation of the maritime environment, however, do not conform with the notions of a ‘blue economy’, as the economic use of maritime resources and the sea often precludes a focus on a sustainable maritime environment. South Africa has a large sea area, abundant marine resources, considerable maritime infrastructure, and the oceans economy is an important contributor to GDP. The South African government’s intention to ensure growth and development in the maritime sector is part of Operation Phakisa, an inherent element of the Nine-Point Plan aimed at stimulating economic growth and development. The focus of this paper is on the South African oceans economy and its potential contribution to socioeconomic growth, development, and transformation. Emphasis will fall on the current state of the oceans economy, new public and private sector initiatives, maritime security, environmental care, maritime governance, as well as assumptions on growth potential and future prospects.

KEYWORDS:

• Blue economy
• oceans economy
• maritime security
• South Africa
• Operation Phakisa

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author.

Notes on contributor

Prof Thean Potgieter is Chief Director Research and Innovation and Acting Branch Head Training Policy and Planning at the South African National School of Government. He is an Associate with the Wits School of Governance, Witwatersrand University, and the Centre for Military Studies, Stellenbosch University. Previous experience includes Director Centre for Military Studies, Departmental Chair and Senior Lecturer at the School for Security and Africa Studies, Stellenbosch University, as well as service in the South African Navy. He holds degrees in the Human Sciences, History and Strategic Studies, as well as a DPhil from Stellenbosch University. He serves on numerous academic and other boards, including as non-executive Director of West Coast Aquaculture (mussel and oyster farm).