The European Union (EU) and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation this week launched a new project to implement the Blue Benguela Current Action programme.
The programme was launched at an event in Swakopmund on Wednesday.
This regional initiative aims to enhance governance and cross-border cooperation for the sustainable management of the Benguela Current Large Marine Ecosystem (BCLME).
The programme will be implemented by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ).
The Benguela current is one of the world’s most productive marine ecosystems, providing food security, jobs and economic opportunities for millions across southern Africa.
Sustainable fisheries, marine spatial planning and ecosystem-based conservation efforts are essential for preserving biodiversity while fostering economic growth in coastal communities dependent on fisheries, aquaculture and eco-tourism.
With a total budget of €12 million (N$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).
Speaking at the launch on behalf of fisheries and marine resources minister Derek Klazen, Erongo governor Neville Itope said: “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”.
EU ambassador to Namibia Ana Beatriz Martins highlighted the EU’s commitment to ocean governance, stating that “the EU 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”.
This initiative marks a major milestone in regional efforts to protect marine ecosystems while driving sustainable economic growth in southern Africa.
The event was attended by key dignitaries, including the ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany Thorsten Hutter, ambassador of France Cécile Vigneau, ambassador of Portugal Rui Carmo as well as ambassador of Spain and CEO of the BCC Alberto de la Calle.
Other distinguished guests included ambassador of Angola Jovelina Imperial e Costa, High Commissioner of South Africa Thenjiwe Ethel Mtintso and secretary general of the BCC Maria de Lurdes Sardinha.
The Blue Benguela Current Action is a 46-month initiative (June 2024-March 2028) led by GIZ, aimed at fostering a sustainable Blue Economy in the Benguela Current Large Marine Ecosystem (BCLME).
The project strengthens the BCC and national authorities to improve fisheries governance, marine resource management and regional cooperation within the Southern African Development Community.
It promotes 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).
Additionally, it seeks innovative financing for long-term marine conservation, ensuring a balance between economic growth and environmental sustainability.