Norway is helping South Africa manage its oceans economy with the assistance of a Norwegian-funded research vessel.

According to Times Live, 22 South African and two Mozambican scientists are aboard the vessel – the Dr Fridtjof Nansen – which recently set sail from Cape Town to Durban. The scientists will collect data on the distribution and abundance of fish stocks; biodiversity; environmental conditions; and the occurrence of microplastics in South African waters. They will also carry out video sampling of coral reefs and collect samples to determine the levels of pollution in fish, water and sediments.

Senzeni Zokwana‚ South Africa’s Agriculture‚ Forestry and Fisheries Minister‚ said in Durban at the official start of the vessel’s voyage: ‘Our participation in this region is filled with anticipation and hope that the data will be essential to guide the government’s programme of the implementation of the small-scale fisheries policy.’

The Dr Fridtjof Nansen set sail for Richards Bay and will cruise off the Mozambique coast and up the eastern shores of the continent, with the journey ending in Phuket, Thailand in November.

14 February 2018
Image: Gondan Ship Builders