East London will host the SA Navy’s 2025 World Hydrography Day celebrations from June 20-22, with the navy aiming to fast-track the city’s role as the incubator for the next generation of marine scientists.
The event, led by the SA Navy, in partnership with Buffalo City metropolitan municipality (BCMM), and Transnet Ports Authority (TNPA), will shine a spotlight on the crucial role of hydrography.
Hydrography involves mapping the ocean floor to ensure safe navigation, environmental protection, and marine sustainability. This year’s theme, ‘Seabed Mapping, Enabling Ocean Action,’ brings global attention to how ocean data supports decision-making in climate change, marine conservation, and shipping.
SA Navy Lieutenant Officer Mokwene Moekena says East London’s selection as host city was strategic, with the hopes that the city and the navy will form a close partnership to address the skills gap in the marine science sector. The navy believes East London will play a pivotal role in marine education in the coming years and this event aims to fast track this potential.
Moekena said: “Buffalo City presents the ideal place from which to recruit a new generation of marine science professionals.
“Our aim is to spread awareness about hydrography and the navy so that parents and pupils understand the vast spectrum of careers available in the marine space.”
The celebrations begin on Thursday June 19 with educational outreach activities with schools and local institutions. Friday June 20 will see Oxford Street come alive during the Right of Entry Parade at 10am.
The ceremonial procession, rich in naval tradition, will mark the Navy’s formal permission to march through the city — a symbolic gesture of mutual respect and civic unity.
On Saturday and Sunday, the public will have a rare opportunity to board naval ships and interact directly with sailors and officers during the Open Ships and Maritime Exhibitions at the S&T Berth in the East London Harbour.
The tours will run on from 9am to 4pm on Saturday and on Sunday, from 9am to 2pm. A park-and-ride service will operate from Esplanade Road for convenience.
The weekend’s festivities conclude with a community concert by the SA Navy Band at the Guild Theatre, from 2-4pm and entry is free. The concert promises lively entertainment and a festive family atmosphere.
Moekena said: “The series of events we have planned is to target the youth for job opportunities. We’re not only focusing on matriculants or tertiary students, but also on younger pupils who are still choosing their school subjects in grade 9.
“They should start realising what’s available beyond the traditional careers they know.”
In the run up to the festivities, the naval band is also hosting pop-up shows from Saturday June 14:
12pm-1pm at Hemmingways Mall;
10am-11.30am June 15 at Mdantsane City Mall;
12pm-2pm June 16 at Vincent Park.
While organisers have noted that ship access may not be suitable for people with mobility challenges, all other areas of the event are designed to be inclusive and informative.
For more information, call the event line at 063-684-2304.
