Pictured (from left) are Lyla Perils (Kouga Lifeguard), Edo Madatt (Kouga Superintendent: Parks), Nomvula Machelesi (Director: Community and Safety Services), Rochelle Ludick (Manager: Parks and Amenities), Marco Engelbrecht (Environmental Management Officer), Alderman Daniel Benson (Member of the Mayoral Committee: Community and Safety Services), Christa Venter (Manager: Waste and Environment), Nomvelo Siwela (Environmental Specialist), Siyanda Camagu (Superintendent: Parks), and Craig Sampson (Kouga Lifeguard).
Kouga Local Municipality has once again cemented its reputation as one of South Africa’s leading coastal destinations — proudly earning four prestigious coastal awards for the 2025/2026 season.
The municipality achieved full Blue Flag Status for Dolphin Beach in Jeffreys Bay and Cape St Francis Beach, reaffirming Kouga’s dedication to maintaining world-class standards of safety, cleanliness, and environmental care.
In addition, Kouga was recognised for its Green Coast sites in partnership with the JBay Surf Alliance – namely the JBay Supertubes and Paradise Beach coastline. These accolades highlight Kouga’s commitment to balancing tourism development with the protection of its natural coastal ecosystems.
The announcement was made by the Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa (WESSA) at the official Blue Flag and Green Coast Awards Ceremony held in Port Alfred on 31 October 2025, where 97 coastal sites were honoured for their excellence in sustainable coastal management and tourism.
The Blue Flag Programme, now celebrating 25 years in South Africa, recognises beaches, marinas, and boats that meet international standards of water quality, environmental management, safety, and education.
Kouga Executive Mayor Hattingh Bornman expressed immense pride in the achievement, crediting the dedication of municipal teams and local stakeholders who work tirelessly to maintain Kouga’s coastline. “This recognition is not only a symbol of pristine beaches and high safety standards, but also a testament to Kouga’s unwavering commitment to sustainable coastal management,” he Bornman.
“We are honoured to once again see Kouga’s beaches flying the Blue Flag – a mark of excellence that attracts both local and international visitors.”
He further emphasised the importance of collaboration in maintaining these world-class standards.
“These achievements would not be possible without the dedication of our municipal staff, the JBay Surf Alliance, and the passionate residents who continuously advocate for clean, safe and environmentally responsible beaches,” he added. “Together, we are building a future where tourism and environmental care go hand in hand.”
The Green Coast Programme, launched by WESSA to celebrate natural, less-developed coastal areas, has also grown significantly this year – doubling its network to 15 certified sites across South Africa. Kouga’s inclusion highlights the region’s balanced approach to conservation and tourism, particularly along its more rugged and nature-rich stretches of coastline.
“Our coastlines are the heart of Kouga’s identity,” Bornman concluded. “They drive our tourism economy, bring communities together, and remind us of the responsibility we share to protect these natural treasures for generations to come.”
