In November, I had the privilege of attending the International Ocean Institute – Southern Africa (IOI-SA) Ocean Governance Training Programme between the 4th and 29th. I was among participants from 12 different African countries, including early-career researchers, experts, and professionals in their respective fields. Throughout the program, we engaged in café sessions to share our […]
Category: Research
Eating shark meat might be riskier than you think…
Sharks are renowned as apex predators in marine ecosystems and are often depicted in a sinister light with their wide jaws, sharp teeth and swift movements. Despite their formidable presence, they are not immune to threats, including being hunted and consumed as a source of fish protein. Annually, over 1.4 million tons of sharks, including […]
Shark Spotters Honoured at the 2024 SANParks Kudu Awards
The South African National Parks (SANParks) Kudu Awards stands as a prestigious celebration of excellence, honouring organisations and individuals who go above and beyond in championing education, outreach, and conservation within South Africa’s national parks. Now in its 18th year, this event shines a spotlight on those who tackle critical conservation topics with unwavering passion […]
Transformation and progress require intention and care – the Shark Spotters Graduate Training programme (SS-GTP) after a year
With the barriers to entry into the marine sector becoming steeper seemingly every three to five years, what sacrifices does one need to make to land one’s dream job? Has hard work and determination become just the bottom rung on the ladder to employment, while access, luck, and privilege now act as the jetpack that […]
When There Are Sharks…: Monwabisi Sikweyiya 20 Years Later
Monwabisi (Monwa) Sikweyiya is a devoted field manager at Shark Spotters, often seen driving along the breathtaking coastline from Kogel Bay to Fish Hoek daily. Armed with a warm smile, his responsibilities include supporting the team, providing spotters with equipment, and ensuring they execute their tasks effectively. This year, Monwa celebrates 20 years of service […]
When There Are Sharks…: Plettenberg Bay Research
In 2019, I moved to Plettenberg Bay, and my life changed forever. My first hike on the Robberg Peninsula was a revelation. I spotted a great white shark, an experience that set the course for my future. Shortly after, I assisted a scientist in studying white shark presence and behaviour along the peninsula. Plett, with […]
When there are sharks…
Did you know that South Africa was the first country in the world to protect great white sharks? In 1991, South Africa made the pioneering decision to halt the hunting of white sharks, aiming not only to conserve these majestic creatures but also to boost tourism. While the white shark might be the most famous […]
Bridging Seas: Insights and Experiences from The 7th Southern African Shark and Ray Symposium
I am Bonga Govuza, and I have just obtained my MSc in Biodiversity and Conservation biology, with my thesis project focusing on marine biology, at University of the Western Cape (UWC) while working as a Graduate Trainee at Shark Spotters. I like to believe that Marine Biology did not just become my choice; it chose […]
My experience while attending the 7th Southern African Shark and Ray Symposium
I fell in love with the ocean not knowing there is more to it. To me, the ocean was always an escape, a place where the crashing waves against the rocks created a soothing melody that drew me back time and time again. With each visit, my curiosity about this vast body of water grew, […]