Minister George to lead SA Agulhas Ii Open Day in Durban

16 May 2025

The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), Dr Dion George, will lead the SA Agulhas II Open Day, in Durban, on 24 May 2024.

Members of the media are invited to attend and cover the SA Agulhas II Open Day and join the Demonstration Cruise from Durban to Cape Town, from 24 to 27 May 2025.

The SA Agulhas II is on its way back from Marion Island ahead of the Durban engagement and will host a public Open Day on Saturday, 24 May 2025, followed by an onboard scientific voyage from Durban to Cape Town. The Demonstration Cruise presents a rare opportunity for media to sail with decision-makers and researchers, engage directly with scientific personnel, observe shipboard operations, and report from within a fully operational research environment.

The cruise will feature a structured programme of scientific presentations and live demonstrations led by experts from the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment. These activities are designed to highlight the Department’s work in ocean observation, coastal monitoring, and climate research, offering an in-depth view of South Africa’s marine science capacity and its relevance to national and global sustainability efforts.

Members of the media are invited to attend the event as follows:

MEDIA TOUR:   
DATE: Saturday, 24 May 2025   
TIME: 10:00   
VENUE: Nelson Mandela Passenger Terminal, Port of Durban

DEMONSTRATION CRUISE:  
DEPARTURE: Saturday, 24 May 2025 at 18:00, Nelson Mandela Passenger Terminal, Port of Durban  
ARRIVAL: Tuesday, 27 May 2025 (Morning) (Port of Cape Town)

The deadline for media RSVP to sail is 21 May 2025 at 16:30. Space is limited and confirmation will be granted on a first-come, first-served basis. Accredited representatives will receive boarding details and embarkation instructions upon confirmation.

• LOGISTICAL SUPPORT DURING THE CRUISE: 
  Technical Capabilities: Wi-Fi access will be provided onboard to enable real-time reporting. Dedicated spaces for live equipment setup and interviews can be arranged with prior coordination.

• 
  Accommodation & Meals: The DFFE will provide onboard accommodation and meals during the cruise. Transport to and from Durban remains the responsibility of individual media houses.

• 
  Safety Protocols: All guests must comply with onboard safety regulations, including designated muster points, dress code, lifejacket procedures, and restricted access zones.

To RSVP, please contact:

Paul Sigutya  
072 921 4457  
psigutya@dffe.gov.za  
or  
Kagiso Letsebe  
082 808 5956  
kletsebe@dffe.gov.za

For media enquiries, please contact:

Peter Mbelengwa:
+27 82 611 8197
pmbelengwa@dffe.gov.za