World Tuna Day

World Tuna Day History

World Tuna aims to raise awareness about the vital role of tuna and all tuna-like species in the maintenance of marine ecosystems. It is also an opportunity to highlight the importance of sustainable fishing practices to ensure the long-term conservation of these valuable species. This observance recognizes the economic, nutritional, and cultural significance of tuna, reinforcing the need for effective global management to prevent overfishing and depleting tuna stocks worldwide.

Declared by the United Nations General Assembly, World Tuna Day came into existence in 2017. The day holds particular relevance for South Africa due to the country's dependence on tuna fishing and trading as an essential part of its economy. South Africa, being a prominent member of International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT), has an active role in advocating for sustainable fishing practices. Tuna is crucial for South Africa, as it contributes to food security and sustains South African livelihoods in many coastal communities.

In South Africa, World Tuna Day is typically marked with activities that shed light on the importance of sustainability and responsible fishing. These activities often involve the participation of government bodies, environmental organisations, fishery communities, and other relevant stakeholders. Campaigns, workshops, and educational events are used to promote the responsible management of tuna resources and sustainable fishing practices. World Tuna Day is observed annually on the 2nd of May, dedicated to safeguarding this crucial marine resource for future generations.

Facts about World Tuna Day

• The theme for World Tuna Day in 2025 was Yes We Can.
  In 2024 the theme was Our Tuna, Our Legacy.
  In 2023 the theme was Restoring Tuna Abundance to Benefit People and Nature.
• The tuna industry has an estimated global sale value of almost $10 billion according to the UN.
• The biggest Tuna ever caught in South African waters was a 101.4kg Yellowfin Tuna, which was caught off Cape Point in 2008. Climate change is posing a threat to Tuna populations in South Africa. Rising ocean temperatures affect their breeding grounds and may disrupt the Tuna's migratory patterns.
• The Albacore tuna (Thunnus alalunga) which is commonly caught off the South African coast, is the species most frequently targeted and canned for the South African market. On World Tuna Day, people are encouraged to make responsible choices when buying tuna to support sustainable fishing practices.

In the News and Trending in South Africa for World Tuna Day

Top things to do in South Africa for World Tuna Day

• Learn more about the different kinds of tuna species. Greenpeace lists several species of tuna and provides healthy recommendations for consumption.
• Visit the Cape Peninsula, where you can see the iconic False Bay, home to several tuna species, including Yellowfin Tuna.
• Take a boat tour in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park to see tuna swimming around in their natural habitat.