Pray the News 
New bunkering regulation could destroy Bay’s port economy.
 The Herald, Monday 5 May

 
Background Abstract
Conflicting regulations between proposed offshore bunkering policies and the South African Maritime Safety Authority (Samsa) codes risk capsizing the industry and could force smaller operators out of the market. The proposed regulations issued under the Integrated Coastal Management Act of 2008 were published in the Government Gazette in February 2025. According to regulations published by forestry, fisheries, and environmental minister, Dion George, a maximum of five bunker operators will be permitted to operate in Algoa Bay, with each operator limited to a single vessel within the marine area. Bunkering operations would also be prohibited at night and during sea conditions where wave heights exceeded 0,5 meters. The regulations also prohibit bunkering activities within a 20km radius of St Croix Island. The Premier of the Eastern Cape said the regulations will destroy the city’s port economy. The draft regulations are inconsistent with the SA Maritime Safety Authority codes, which regulate the maritime industry.    

Summary and Links 
The proposed offshore bunkering regulations under the Integrated Coastal Management Act of 2008, published in February 2025, conflict with SAMSA’s codes, particularly the Bunkering Code of Practice. The new regulations limit Algoa Bay to five bunker operators, restrict operations to one vessel per operator, prohibit nighttime bunkering, ban activities in rough seas (waves over 0.5 meters), and enforce a 20km no-bunkering zone around St Croix Island. These restrictions are seen as inconsistent with SAMSA’s operational standards, which prioritize safety and environmental protection but allow more flexibility for maritime operations. The conflict risks disrupting the bunkering industry, potentially forcing smaller operators out and harming the port economy of Gqeberha. Access the Act and regulations here: https://www.gov.za/documents/national-environmental-management-integrated-coastal-management-act

Prayer Guidelines
Acknowledging God’s Sovereignty and Creation
Scripture: Psalm 24:1-2 – “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it; for he founded it on the seas and established it on the waters.”
Prayer: Heavenly Father, You are the Creator and Sovereign over all the earth, including the seas and all that dwell therein. We come before You, recognizing Your authority over Algoa Bay, its waters, and the maritime industry that operates within it. We seek Your wisdom and grace to steward Your creation responsibly while supporting the livelihoods of those in the bunkering industry.

Praying for Wisdom and Guidance for Leaders
Scripture: James 1:5 – “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”
Prayer: Lord, we lift up Minister Dion George, the South African Maritime Safety Authority, the Eastern Cape premier, and all policymakers involved in crafting and harmonizing these regulations. Grant them Your divine wisdom to create policies that protect the environment while sustaining the maritime industry. Help them align the proposed bunkering regulations with SAMSA’s codes in a way that honours You and benefits all stakeholders.

Praying for Economic Provision and Industry Stability
Scripture: Philippians 4:19 – “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.”
Prayer: Father, we pray for the bunkering industry, especially smaller operators at risk of being forced out by restrictive regulations. You are the Provider who meets every need. Protect the jobs and livelihoods of those who depend on this industry in Gqeberha and beyond. Guide decision-makers to craft regulations that allow the maritime sector to thrive economically without compromising safety or environmental integrity.

Praying for Environmental Stewardship
Scripture: Genesis 2:15 – “The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it.”
Prayer: Lord, You entrusted us with the care of Your creation. We pray for the protection of Algoa Bay, its marine life, and the ecosystems surrounding St Croix Island. Help the maritime industry adopt practices that honor Your command to care for the earth. Inspire innovations and solutions that prevent pollution, such as the oil spills seen in the past, and ensure that bunkering operations are conducted with the utmost respect for Your creation.

Praying for Unity and Collaboration
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 1:10 – “I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another in what you say and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly united in mind and thought.”
Prayer: Gracious God, we ask for unity among industry stakeholders, environmental advocates, and government officials. Soften hearts and remove divisions, fostering collaboration to resolve the conflict between the proposed regulations and SAMSA’s codes. May they work together in a spirit of mutual respect, seeking solutions that balance economic needs with environmental care.

Compiled by GAP Ministries
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