Deputy Minister N. Singh: to lead SA Agulhas II open day and demonstration cruise

10 February 2025

The Deputy Minister, Mr Narend Singh, together with members of the Portfolio Committee, will lead the SA Agulhas II Open Day and Demonstration Cruise, taking place from 14 to 17 February 2025 at the Port of East London, Eastern Cape. This flagship event is an opportunity to showcase South Africa’s leadership in marine science, environmental conservation, and polar research

The SA Agulhas II, commissioned in 2012, is a cutting-edge polar research vessel equipped with advanced laboratories, state-of-the-art scientific instrumentation, and facilities for training marine cadets. Returning from its annual Antarctic relief voyage, the ship plays a pivotal role in enabling research missions to Antarctica and the Southern Ocean, contributing significantly to studying climate systems, biodiversity, and oceanography. The vessel facilitates groundbreaking research and strengthens South Africa’s contributions to global scientific initiatives and environmental sustainability.

The event is designed to engage a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including government officials, scientists, educators, learners, and the general public. Visitors will gain an in-depth understanding of the vessel’s capabilities, the scientific projects it supports, and its role in addressing critical global challenges such as climate change and marine resource management. The Open Day will feature interactive exhibitions and guided tours, while the Demonstration Cruise offers participants a firsthand experience of onboard research operations and scientific presentations.

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

Open Day: • Date: 14 February 2025 (Invited Schools Only) • Date: 15 February 2025 (Public Event) • Time: 09:00 – 15:30 • Venue: Port Of East London (S&T Berth)

Demonstration Cruise: • DEPARTURE: 15 February 2025, Port of East London • ARRIVAL: 17 February 2025, Port of Cape Town

The deadline for media RSVP for participation in the Demonstration Cruise is 12 February 2025. Accredited media representatives will receive onboard accommodation, meals, and Wi-Fi for the duration of the cruise. Transportation to and from East London will be the responsibility of individual media outlets. 

To RSVP, please contact

Merle Van Diemel 
Mobile: 083 301 9400
E-mail: mvandiemel@dffe.gov.za

or

Paul Sigutya
Mobile: 072 921 4457
E-mail: psigutya@dffe.gov.za