Staff Reporter
PRESIDENT Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah recently held discussions with fishing industry stakeholders in Walvis Bay to explore areas where the sector can be strengthened.
“We have gathered here in Walvis Bay today, one of the important economic growth points of Namibia, for a deliberate and sincere engagement with the role players in the fishing industry. This working visit is guided by a simple, but important purpose, to listen, to understand, and to reflect together on the way forward for this vital sector,” she said.
The President stressed that the fishing industry remains a priority sector of the economy and a strategic national asset that must be sustainably managed and developed for the benefit of all Namibians. She noted that the sector contributes significantly through job creation, skills development, income generation, foreign exchange earnings and nutrition, thereby supporting national food and nutrition security.
“One of our key economic enablers, is the Fishing Industry. As an Executive, we are here to get first-hand information from the industry’s main role players, namely, company executives and workers representing. Your inputs will help us on how we can carry the industry forward,” she said.
She explained that the purpose of the engagement is not only to review the industry’s progress, but also to identify existing challenges and develop practical and responsive solutions.
“We recognise that the industry is not what it used to be. Over the years, changes have taken place, some necessary, others difficult, affecting jobs, livelihoods, and the daily realities of many Namibians,” she said.
The president acknowledged that the sector is facing several concerns, particularly relating to workers’ welfare and the sustainability of fish stocks, and emphasised that addressing these issues will require collective action.
“We are all aware that the fishing sector is undergoing a period of transition. In the course of this, concerns have been raised regarding certain practices and their impact on workers, businesses, and sustainability. We are not here to play a blame game. We have come to listen with an open mind to those who experience the realities of this industry every day. I therefore encourage all participants to engage openly and constructively. Let us speak with honesty about what is working and where improvements are needed. At the same time, we must remain mindful of the state of our marine resources. There are growing concerns around the sustainability of fish stocks, and this requires our collective attention,” the president added.
Scenes from the engagement with the fishing sector in Walvis Bay. Photos: Namibian Presidency.
