CAPE TOWN, Jan. 21 (Xinhua) -- South African Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Dion George has announced a 36 percent increase in the allocation of certain key fish species.

"This bold move underscores the government's commitment to supporting small-scale fishers, providing them with greater access to marine resources that will enable business growth and create jobs at harbors across the country," the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment said in a statement Tuesday.

"This 36 percent increase in fish allocations for own use is about improving livelihoods, empowering fishing communities, and stimulating economic activity in our coastal regions," George was quoted as saying in the statement. "By supporting small-scale fishers, we're ensuring that they become central players in driving local development and sustainability."

The increased allocations form part of a broader strategy to promote inclusive economic growth and job creation while preserving South Africa's rich marine biodiversity, the minister said.

"The department is working to reinvigorate coastal harbors as hubs of economic activity and want to help uplift small-scale fishers so that they can fully capitalize on these expanded opportunities," the statement said. Enditem

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