Dear Colleagues
Thursday 25th September was World Maritime Day, under the auspices of the WMO – World Maritime Organisation, with the South African custodian of this being the Department of Transport, who played host to a very special day.
With the theme, Our Ocean/ Our Obligation/ Our Opportunity, it was a day of celebration of our children, and of course, the vital role the maritime industry plays, with over 80% of all global trade carried by sea, and the importance of co-operation and collaboration, and being kind to one another in the true spirit of Ubuntu!
We were welcomed by Deputy Director-General Maritime Transport, Mr Mthunzi Madiya, with the keynote address by the Deputy Minister of Transport, Hon Mr Mkhuleka Hlengwa, highlighting the role of the maritime industry to our economy and the opportunities offered for the young learners present.
The Deputy Minister was followed by Advocate Phyllis Difeto, Acting CEO, TNPA, addressing the successful turnaround strategy of the group, then SAMSA Acting Ceo Ms Mbalenhie Golding, stressing the importance of safety at sea and along our coastline.
The highlight of the day were the pupils of the Yomelela Primary School, who stole the hearts of everyone, by their individual rendering of what the Maritime Industry means to them in the warmest way.
The pupils of the Matthew Goniwe High School were also in attendance and as these children are our future – it sure bodes well for the Western Cape!
THE Q&A sessions certainly provided evidence that the pupils interest had been piqued as all the questions came from the pupils of the two schools.
The day’s events closed with a vote of thanks from the CEO of the Ports Regulator, Ms Jowie Mulaudzi.
Here’s to our maritime future – we are better together!!!!!!’
Sincerely
Terry Gale
Chairman
