Ocean And Coastal
Empowerment and Action Network

About us

Our vision

A world where our oceans and coasts are cared for, to ensure a sustainable future for all living creatures.

Overview

OCEAN is a registered Non-profit Organisation (NPO 253-114) and Public Benefit Organisation (PBO 930 070 578). OCEAN works in partnership with coastal communities, various government departments and other stakeholders to enhance the protection and conservation of our oceans and coasts and all life forms dependent on it for survival.

Who we are

OCEAN was founded by Estelle van der Merwe. Estelle has been active in the fields of Oiled Wildlife Response, combatting IUU fishing and various Antarctic and environmental issues for more than two decades.

Directors

Estelle van der Merwe, Carina Keyzer, Chantal Dolphin

Our plans

• Increase awareness on the importance of the protection of our oceans and coasts.
• Assist coastal communities to better their lives through skills development.
• Assist coastal communities through job creation along our coasts, including beach clean-up, managing plastic pollution, dune management and eco-tourism.
• Increase awareness on marine wildlife and domestic animal health in coastal communities and provide assistance through specific projects.
• Educate the public and coastal communities on Antarctic issues, the effects of climate change, pollution, overfishing and IUU fishing along South Africa’s coast.
• Assist with capacity building on ocean governance to better protect our oceans and coasts.
• Connect coastal communities and creating ecotourism opportunities.
• Provide vulnerable coastal communities with access to training in swimming, lifesaving, first aid, CPR, medical care, firefighting, etc.