THE South Durban Community Environmental Alliance (SDCEA) hosted a multi-location beach picket in support of small-scale fishers and coastal communities recently.

The objective of the beach picket was to fight for the fisherfolks’ rights to fish.

Also read: KZN fishermen receive free fishing permits

According to a statement released by SDCEA, the collaboration showed the power of solidarity, while demanding access to the beach fishing grounds that have been closed off to fisherfolk.

“The ocean is for everyone to utilise in a safe and protective manner. Therefore, this picket is a call for justice and recognition that coastal communities and fisherfolk, that rely on fishing for their livelihood, deserve to be allowed to fish legally,” said SDCEA in a statement.

SDCEA believe that coastal developments and policies have excluded and policed fisherfolk from using the beach.

“A number of beach areas are being privatised and this has negatively affected the livelihoods of fisherfolk. This picket is not to ask for any special treatment but just the right for fisherfolk to protect their livelihoods.

The fishermen demand the following:

• Immediate access to beach zones that have been closed off for fisherfolk.
• Recognition of fisherfolk fishing rights.
• Consultation with fisherfolk and coastal communities before any policy decisions are taken.

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