LÜDERITZ – Yesterday marked a historic occasion with the country’s first-ever maritime museum launched by President Nangolo Mbumba in the quaint southern coastal town of Lüderitz.
The Namibia Maritime Museum celebrates the country’s rich maritime heritage.
Built for N$75 million, the museum is housed in the town’s historic Old Power Station complex, which includes a picturesque view of the cold Atlantic Ocean.
“This museum stands as a beacon of our historical marine narrative, housed within the walls of the Lüderitz Old Power Station, a structure that has witnessed over a century of our maritime history since its completion in 1911 during the German colonial era,” said Mbumba.
The museum’s development is part of the second phase of the Lüderitz Water Front Development Company (WFDC) initiative.
The development also aims to serve as a major marine research centre and educational hub, particularly for students, while also attracting tourists the developing town.
The event was graced by Cabinet ministers who mingled with the local community.
The President further noted the maritime history deeply intertwines with trade, exploration, and cultural exchange.
Mbumba added that the ocean is of integral importance to the Namibian nation, not only from a historical standpoint but also as a means of advancing developmental objectives.
“The ocean contributes significantly to Namibia’s economy by providing jobs, food, minerals, transportation, energy resources, ecological services, and tourism opportunities,” he said.
Welcoming people in her region, //Kharas governor Aletha Frederick, said the development marks not just an architectural achievement but serves as a beacon of hope for economic growth, cultural preservation, and educational advancement while simultaneously positioning it as a premier tourist destination.
“It is a vital attraction for both local and international visitors, showcasing the historical significance of our coastal activities and marine resources. We can leverage this new attraction to promote sustainable fishing practices while educating visitors about responsible marine stewardship. The synergy between tourism and fisheries will create job opportunities and force economic resilience within our community,” said the governor.
Museum director and historian Eino Ngesheya said the museum boasts a fishing processing unit, maritime trade, offshore exploration of oil and gas, and mining of the seabed diamonds, as well as the history of navigation and the age of exploration.
Delving into a bit of history, Lüderitz is a charming harbour town. It is known for its unique German colonial architecture, rich maritime history, and stunning natural surroundings.
Founded in 1883, in an area locally known as ǃNamiǂNûs, the town developed around Robert Harbour and Shark Island and was named after Adolf Lüderitz, a German merchant who purchased the land from local Nama chiefs.