Deputy Minister N Singh, MP: Remarks on the Occasion of the SA Agulhas II Open Day

14 February 2025, East London

Distinguished guests, learners, media representatives, ladies and gentlemen,

It is an absolute pleasure to stand before you today at this exciting and momentous occasion – the Open Day for the SA Agulhas II.

On behalf of the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, I would like to extend a warm welcome to all our distinguished guests, and especially to the learners who have joined us today. You represent the future, and it is your curiosity, enthusiasm, and passion that will continue to drive the environmental efforts of our nation in the years to come.

The SA Agulhas II, as many of you may already know, is not just a ship; it is a symbol of our commitment to research, conservation, and sustainable development. As South Africa’s polar research vessel, the SA Agulhas II plays a critical role in advancing scientific research in some of the most extreme environments on Earth, from the Southern Ocean to Antarctica.

One of the most significant advancements of the vessel is its compliance with the International Maritime Organisation’s new requirements for redundancy. This means that all critical systems on board are duplicated, ensuring the vessel’s safety and its ability to return to port even in the event of a system failure. This design reflects our commitment to the safety of our crew and scientists, as well as the integrity of the valuable research they conduct.

The SA Agulhas II plays a vital role in supporting South Africa’s three remote scientific bases on Marion Island, Gough Island, and Antarctica. These bases are critical to our understanding of weather patterns, climate change, and the health of our oceans. The research conducted on board the SA Agulhas II focuses on long-term trends in ecosystems, helping us to distinguish between natural variations and the impacts of climate change. From studying sea-level rise and ocean currents to investigating ocean acidification and the populations of protected species like whales and seabirds, the SA Agulhas II is at the forefront of marine and environmental science.

The data collected by the SA Agulhas II is stored on the Marine Information Management System (MIMS), which supports our national Ocean and Coasts Information Management System (OCIMS). These systems are managed by our highly skilled staff, who ensure that the information is accessible and actionable for policymakers, researchers, and the public.

I would also like to highlight the incredible team of scientists and professionals who make this work possible. Our Department boasts the largest concentration of marine scientists in Sub-Saharan Africa, with expertise spanning a wide range of disciplines. Many of these scientists hold postgraduate degrees, including Masters and Doctoral qualifications, and their work is complemented by collaborations with academic institutions, science councils, and international partners.

South Africa’s involvement in the Antarctic Treaty System, of which we are a founding member, underscores our commitment to global scientific collaboration and environmental preservation. As the only African country with a permanent presence in Antarctica, we take pride in our role as a leader in polar research and our contributions to understanding the Southern Ocean’s role in global climate systems.

Today, as we open the doors of this magnificent vessel to the public, we are not simply showcasing a piece of maritime technology. We are sharing with you the heart of our efforts to protect the oceans, understand our planet's changing climate, and preserve biodiversity for generations to come. This is a unique opportunity for you to experience first-hand the hard work that goes into marine science and the dedication required to safeguard our environment.

To the learners present here today:

This vessel is an incredible opportunity to engage with science in a very real and tangible way. The work done aboard the SA Agulhas II involves various fields of study—from oceanography and climatology to marine biology and environmental science. We hope that as you explore this vessel, you will be inspired to pursue your own dreams in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Our oceans are vast and vital. They regulate the climate, sustain marine life, and support millions of people who depend on them for food, livelihoods, and recreation. However, the oceans are also facing unprecedented challenges—climate change, pollution, and over-exploitation of marine resources. It is up to all of us, especially the next generation, to take bold action and work together to safeguard these precious resources.

I urge you all, as you tour the vessel today and learn about the incredible work done by the scientists aboard, to reflect on the importance of preserving the environment. Whether you choose to study marine science, engineering, policy, or another field, know that your work can make a real and lasting difference.

To the guests and media:

Your presence today is invaluable in raising awareness about the crucial work we are doing, not only here in South Africa but globally. The science and data collected by the SA Agulhas II contribute to international efforts to better understand our changing world and develop solutions to the most pressing environmental issues we face.

I would like to thank the dedicated crew and researchers who work aboard the vessel, as well as the partners who support our mission. It is through these collaborations that we continue to push the boundaries of scientific exploration and environmental protection.

The Open Day is not just an exhibition of science and technology; it is a reminder that the health of our planet is in our hands. The work done by the SA Agulhas II is a testament to what is possible when we come together to explore, to understand, and to act.

I encourage each of you to take this opportunity to ask questions, to be curious, and to learn. For the learners here today, know that this could be the spark that ignites a lifelong passion for science and environmental stewardship.

In closing, the SA Agulhas II is more than just a ship—it is a symbol of South Africa’s dedication to science, exploration, and the sustainable management of our oceans and environment. It represents our ability to innovate, adapt, and lead in the face of global challenges.

As we celebrate this Open Day, I invite you all to explore the SA Agulhas II, learn about its missions, and appreciate the incredible work being done by our scientists and crew. Together, we are building a legacy of knowledge and stewardship that will benefit not only South Africa but the entire planet.

Let’s continue to work together to ensure that the oceans and the environment remain protected for the future.

Thank you, and enjoy your time aboard the SA Agulhas II!

For media enquiries, please contact

Thobile Zulu-Molobi  
Mobile: 082 513 7154 
E-mail: tmolobi@dffe.gov.za

or

Peter Mbelengwa  
Mobile: 082 611 8197 
E-mail:  pmbelengwa@dffe.gov.za