The Southern African anchovy (Engraulis encrasicolus) is a small, schooling pelagic fish found abundantly along the coasts of southern Africa, particularly off Namibia and South Africa. This species plays a crucial ecological role as a forage fish and is a cornerstone of the region’s commercial fishing industry, primarily harvested for fishmeal and animal feed, but also for human consumption. South Africa is the leading country in anchovy fishing in this region, with its productive fisheries centered around the nutrient-rich Benguela Current along the Western Cape. Namibia also contributes significantly, though its anchovy catches are smaller compared to its sardine and horse mackerel fisheries. Together, these countries have developed robust anchovy fisheries, supported by advanced processing facilities and strict management measures to ensure sustainability and the long-term health of marine ecosystems.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | South Africa | 171,936 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.