iThemba = Hope. There is hope on the horizon: empowering communities, protecting oceans, and building a sustainable future.
Fishing with purpose in the Eastern Cape
iThemba is a network of small-scale fishery cooperatives transforming lives in South Africa’s Eastern Cape. By bringing sustainably caught Cape Hope Squid to global markets, iThemba creates economic growth, stability, and dignity for coastal communities. Every squid caught supports local families, helps children stay in school, and builds a foundation for long-term prosperity.
Creating meaningful employment through ethical fishing
The cooperatives provide stable income opportunities through shared responsibility, local collaboration, and community-led initiatives. Women and youth are actively involved, gaining skills in fishing, processing, and administration, ensuring sustainable livelihoods for generations to come.
Sustainability at the core
iThemba fishers use WWF-SASSI green-listed jigging techniques – a selective, low-impact method that protects squid populations and marine ecosystems. Night-time squid fishing with handlines and barbless lures requires patience, precision, and deep knowledge of the ocean, preserving biodiversity while supporting ethical seafood sourcing.
Thriving communities, lasting impact
By empowering local cooperatives in Hamburg, Phozi, and Wesley, iThemba strengthens families, builds homes, and creates opportunities for children. Every catch contributes to education, healthcare, and community infrastructure, turning small-scale fishing into a powerful tool for transformation.
Read more about the impact on the community.
Stories of hope
“Before iThemba, fishing was just survival. Now, I can send my daughter to university and support my village.” – Thulani M., Port St Johns
“Working in the co-op has changed my life. I’ve gained skills, confidence, and hope for the future.” – Nomsa K., Coffee Bay
Read more of the community’s stories.
From ocean to global markets
Cape Hope Squid carries more than exceptional quality – it carries hope, empowerment, and the impact of community-led fisheries. iThemba demonstrates that sustainable seafood and thriving coastal communities can coexist.
iThemba is more than fishing; it’s a movement. By protecting the ocean, empowering women and youth, and creating opportunity through small-scale squid fishing, iThemba ensures that hope rises with every tide, for generations to come.
Visit their website: www.ithembafishing.co.za
The role of Atlantis Foods
Atlantis Foods brings structure as an investor, offering trusted expertise from years in the global seafood industry to guide and support the co-ops in managing this venture.
Contact us for more information.
