Staff Reporter
THE European Union (EU) and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation have launched a new N$230 million project to enhance cross-border cooperation for the sustainable management of the Benguela Current Large Marine Ecosystem (BCLME).
“With a total budget of €12 million (NAD 230 million), the project aims to strengthen regional ocean governance, promote sustainable economic opportunities, and build climate resilience across Angola, Namibia, and South Africa. It directly supports the implementation of the BCC’s third Strategic Action Programme (SAP 2023-2033), while advancing international commitments, such as the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and the Treaty on Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ),” explained Twaku Kayofa, the Press and Communications Officer of the EU Delegation to Namibia.
He explained that the programme is a 46-month initiative, which will be implemented by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ). Kayofa highlighted that the project aims to promote sustainable fisheries, marine-based businesses, and economic opportunities, particularly for women and marginalised communities, while enhancing Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and Marine Spatial Planning (MSP). He added that it seeks innovative financing for long-term marine conservation, ensuring a balance between economic growth and environmental sustainability.
“The European Union has been one of the strongest voices promoting the governance of the seas, aligning with our agenda ‘Setting the Course for a Sustainable Blue Planet.’ Through the Blue Benguela Current Action, we reaffirm our commitment to strengthening regional ocean governance, ensuring sustainable livelihoods, and preserving marine biodiversity for future generations,” said Ana Beatriz Martins, EU Ambassador to Namibia.
Martins described the initiative as a key milestone in the region’s efforts to safeguard marine ecosystems while promoting sustainable economic growth in Southern Africa. The Governor of Erongo Region, Neville Itope, who spoke on behalf of Derek Klazen, Minister of Fisheries and Marine Resources, shared similar views.
“The Blue Benguela Current Action represents a significant step forward in uniting regional and international stakeholders to safeguard the rich biodiversity of the Benguela Current. Together, we can ensure that our ocean resources are preserved for generations while fostering economic growth and social inclusion,” Itope added.
