About SAAMBR
The South African Association for Marine Biological Research is a Public Benefit Company founded in 1951.
OUR MISSION
To contribute to the conservation of marine and coastal resources by:
- Generating scientific information through the Oceanographic Research Institute, a leading marine science research institute in the Western Indian Ocean Region.
- Disseminating information and inspiring care for the oceans through uShaka Sea World, Africa’s largest world class, conservation-oriented aquarium.
- Empowering people through uShaka Sea World Education, the leading marine conservation education centre in Africa.
OUR VISION
To be internationally recognised as the most effective, science-based advocate for the conservation of the marine and coastal resources of the Western Indian Ocean.
We achieve our mission and vision through our 3 operating divisions:
ORI
uShaka Sea World
uSW Education
Dr Larry Oellermann
Chief Executive Officer : SAAMBR
Rose Clark
Executive Manager :
Finance and Administration :
SAAMBR
Jone Porter
Executive Manager : uShaka Sea World Education
Dr Sebataolo Rahlao
Executive Manager :
Oceanographic Research Institute
Dr Sean Fennessy
Assistant Executive Manager :
Oceanographic Research Institute
Maryke Musson
Executive Manager : uShaka Sea WorldInspired by the natural beauty and rich coastal and marine biodiversity of KwaZulu-Natal, a group of conservationists, academics and fishermen undertook an expedition in 1947 to the remote northern part of the KZN coast.
Although impressed by the diversity of marine life, they recognised the fragile nature of the ecosystems and the close interdependence between resources and coastal communities. Concerned about the future of marine conservation in South Africa, they conceived the establishment of a not-for-profit marine research organisation that would generate knowledge about marine and coastal resources and provide decision support for people and their leaders. As far as possible, funding would be self-generated through the operations of a public aquarium in the popular holiday town of Durban.
CELEBRATING 73 YEARS OF “HELPING PEOPLE TO CARE FOR THE OCEAN”
The South African Association for Marine Biological Research (SAAMBR) was therefore established in 1951. In 1959 the complex housing the Durban Centenary Aquarium, research laboratories and a fine library was officially opened, followed by the dolphinarium complex in 1976.
SAAMBR moved from the old aquarium site on Durban’s South Beach, to new premises at uShaka Marine World in 2004.
SAAMBR continues to serve the people of KwaZulu-Natal, while playing an increasingly important role in marine scientific endeavour in South Africa and other areas of the Western Indian Ocean and beyond.
Inspired by the natural beauty and rich coastal and marine biodiversity of KwaZulu-Natal, a group of conservationists, academics and fishermen undertook an expedition in 1947 to the remote northern part of the coast.
Although impressed by the diversity of marine life, they recognised the fragile nature of the ecosystems and the close interdependence between resources and coastal communities. Concerned about the future of marine conservation in South Africa, they conceived the establishment of a not-for-profit marine research organisation that would generate knowledge about marine and coastal resources and provide decision support for people and their leaders. As far as possible, funding would be self-generated through the operations of a public aquarium in the popular holiday town of Durban.
CELEBRATING 70 YEARS OF “HELPING PEOPLE TO CARE FOR THE OCEAN”
The South African Association for Marine Biological Research (SAAMBR) was therefore established in 1951. In 1959 the complex housing the Durban Centenary Aquarium, research laboratories and a fine library was officially opened, followed by the dolphinarium complex in 1976.
SAAMBR moved from the old aquarium site on Durban’s South beach, to new premises at uShaka Marine World in 2004.
SAAMBR continues to serve the people of KwaZulu-Natal, while playing an increasingly important role in marine scientific endeavour in South Africa and other areas of the Western Indian Ocean.
Promotion of Access to Information Manual
The Promotion of Access to Information Act, Act 2 of 2000 (PAIA or “the Act”) seeks to promote a culture of transparency, accountability, and sound administration, by giving effect to every person’s constitutional right of access to information.
The business activities of SAAMBR include marine research, conservation, and education. Details required for a requester of information to obtain or apply for information held by SAAMBR, is set out in this manual.