By Nangamso Mabindla
17 October 2007

MARINE and coastal management education will be the order of the day on Saturday, 20 October at the port of East London, where Buffalo City is marking national Marine Week.

Celebrated every year in the third week of October, Marine Week is held to boost awareness of the marine and coastal environment, and to promote sustainable use and conservation of these resources, for the benefit of all in present and future generations.

Terry Taylor, from the National Ports Authority (NPA), said that many activities were planned for families on the day.

"The event is important as it raises awareness about marine management. We have a lot of [activities] lined up to educate and entertain people about the importance of keeping our coast clean."

He said the week would be observed around the country; many stakeholders would hold exhibitions, focusing on the marine world and the way it affected us.

Exhibitors at the port of East London on Saturday include the East London Aquarium and the South African Institute of Aquatic Biodiversity, which is based in Grahamstown. There will be sea and air rescue displays by the National Sea Rescue Institute, or NSRI, and the South African National Defence Force.

"We will also have boat rides and will encourage people to take a part in the Caltex Algoa Big Five walk that will take place on Saturday morning. We have also invited school children from around Buffalo City so that they can learn about the importance of keeping our oceans clean."