Budget constraints hinder naval operations

SIMON'S TOWN, Western Cape - The South Africa Navy’s leadership has painted a bleak picture of its maritime safety operations due to budget constraints.

Opening the three-day SA Navy Festival in Simon’s Town on Friday, Vice Admiral Monde Lobese, says an operating budget of R1.6-billion is not enough.

There has been a 60% increase in maritime traffic past the South African coastline as a result of the problems transiting the Red Sea.

Despite their budget limitations, authorities have given the assurance that the country’s oceans are being policed.

eNCA reporter Kevin Brandt has more details in the video above.