A group of small-scale fishers in Hout Bay came together for a transformative workshop where many discovered how to float, swim and gain essential first-aid knowledge for the very first time!
Hout Bay, South Africa (11 April 2025) – Despite depending on the ocean as a means to their livelihood, many fisherfolk haven’t been equipped with key water safety or survival swimming skills.
Looking to address this, a group of 38 small-scale fishers (SSFs) were recently brought together to engage in a workshop focusing on their needs, water safety and sustainability.
Spearheaded by the NSRI and supported by the Lloyd’s Register Foundation, The Fisherfolk Community Project Workshop in Hout Bay aimed to address the needs of these fishers.
The four days unfolded with a spirit of eager participation, from learning crucial water safety and survival swimming – a revelation for many who discovered the true meaning of floating – to gaining essential first aid knowledge.
The group was diverse, with ages ranging from 25 to 71 years and 62% male participants. Notably, 64% had been fishing for over five years, and an impressive 88% identified as the primary breadwinners in their families.
One of the most eye-opening findings was that 33% of participants shared that they did not know how to swim, whereas 13% indicated uncertainty – highlighting the vital need for ongoing safety training and support for this community.
Caville Abrahams, NSRI Drowning Prevention Regional Coordinator, reflected on some of the biggest challenges the fishers faced during Survival Swimming training.
“Some of the fisherfolk believed they could swim, but in reality, they could only perform a doggy paddle, which quickly exhausted them and prevented them from floating. We had to break down what they previously knew and teach them proper swimming and survival skills.”
A standout moment from the workshop was seeing the joy on the participants’ faces when they realised they could float – some for the very first time. Even elderly participants embraced the experience, proving it’s never too late to learn a lifesaving skill!
This initiative stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and the impact of investing in the safety and well-being of those who depend on the ocean.
The NSRI extended heartfelt thanks to the Lloyd’s Register Foundation, the DFFE, and Oceana for making the project possible.
Sources: NSRI
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