The government has allocated N$88 million to the Lüderitz Waterfront Development Company to continue with its strategic infrastructure development to create the appropriate facilities required for the town.
Vice President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah made this revelation while addressing the audience at the Crayfish Festival, which aims to boost socio-economic development in the harbour town.
“Those infrastructures are also important to the growth of the crayfish festival,” Nandi-Ndaitwah said.
Her remarks come at the back of recent natural resource discoveries and ongoing exploration activities throughout the country, of which the town is a central focus.
“The government is undertaking a number of policy initiatives to provide for a framework that seeks to maximise the benefits presented by all those industries by enabling and promoting local content along the value chain of natural resource utilisation,” the seasoned politician said.
The vice president then stressed that meaningful and people-centred development should be driven locally, and the central government is always at “your disposal to assist in the effective realisation of the dreams of the citizens.”
She said Lüderitz has become a hotspot for business tourism, where a variety of national and international events are hosted, bringing in much-needed financial injection and employment opportunities.
The politician added that the changing economic circumstances in the country require effective, comprehensive strategic planning from the local, regional, and national levels to serve Namibians.
Since its inception in 2008, the Crayfish Festival has become a cherished annual event, uniting locals and visitors alike in the celebration of culture, economy and community spirit.
Themed ‘Riding the Waves towards a Sustainable Future’, the festival is premised on enhancing socio-economic development in the southern harbour town, particularly within the local tourism economy.
Adding her voice, //Kharas governor Aletha Frederick said the festival plays a crucial role in driving social and economic development by boosting tourism, creating employment opportunities and stimulating economic growth.
“It also serves as a catalyst for local businesses, particularly the hospitality and food sectors, to increase demands for goods and services,” she indicated.