The Fisher People Tribunal Hearings took place from 12-14 August 2024 in Cape Town, marking South Africa’s first People’s Tribunal focused on fishing communities. Hosted by Masifundise and Coastal Links, the Tribunal brought together fisher representatives, experts, allies and activists to expose ocean and land grabbing and violations of fishing communities’ rights. Six cases were presented to a jury of experts, featuring testimonies, charge sheets, and in-depth discussions, shining a light on the challenges faced by coastal and inland fishing communities. The hearings concluded with closing statements and reflections, and the jury tasked with delivering its verdict.
Fisher People Tribunal verdict
Tribunal Hearings Live stream
Case Reports
Testimonials
Zakhele Nkamisa, Port St Johns, Eastern Cape
"The tribunal surpassed my expectations. It was good to see the jury be so diverse and from different sectors to help guide us. I noticed that although I am in PSJ, someone from the inland area has issues similar to mine, our lived experiences as fishers are similar although we are in different areas."
Eunice Mthembu, KZN
"The tribunal was very successful. I am a fisherwoman and I found out that Masifundise defends the rights of fisher people. And if there are meetings like this, we will have information about what we should do going forward in our struggle."
Terisa Ovies, fisher woman from Port Nolloth, Northern Cape
"What really stood out for me from the tribunal was to hear the challenges faced by my fellow fishers in Dwesa-Cwebe in the Eastern Cape. They have to risk their lives when they want to fish to put food on the table, out of fear of being shot at an harassed."
Zodwa Schoco, Benton, Eastern Cape
"What stood out for me, I realised that although we were granted fishing rights in 2019 by the government and all the promises, they never came to fruition. What is heartbreaking is that even though we have permits, we continue to be abused."
Harvey Ntshoko, Centane, Eastern Cape
"What I realised is that we are far from where we want to go. I heard the issues revealed by different people from different provinces about the horrific treatment they get from authorities and the department.""
Fana, inland fisher, Norvalspoint, Northern Cape
"Being part of the Fisher People Tribunal was a powerful experience. A lot of things came to light - some really broke my hear, while others made me angry about what the Rangers did to the fishers. But on the bright side, it showed me that the fight isn't over yet. Masifundise is still standing with us, and the jury really helps us stay strong and figure out how to keep pushing forward."