WALVIS BAY – The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform has tasked newly appointed members of the Marine Advisory Council with providing expert advice on the sustainable management of Namibia’s marine resources.
The ministry’s executive director, Teofilus Nghitila, will chair the council. Other members include Hilma Shiwedha, Martha Uumati, Omu Kakujaha-Matundu, Hashali Hamukwaya, Aino-Sylvia Nsinano, Johanna Shiweda, Elly Hamunyela, Alexander Kirov, Beau Tjizoo, Jacob Penda, and Joyce Mbuende, who will serve as secretary.
Speaking at the inauguration, agriculture minister Inge Zaamwani said the council’s primary responsibility is to advise the minister and deputy minister on matters referred to it in terms of the Marine Resources Act.
“You are now being commissioned and entrusted with your responsibilities as members of this council. These functions are clearly outlined in the Marine Resources Act but allow me to highlight some of your key duties,” she said.
Zaamwani noted that the council may also be tasked with investigating specific issues and submitting reports to the ministry.
“We may request you to look into particular matters of concern and provide us with recommendations,” she added.
She said members were selected based on their broad expertise and experience in the fishing industry, noting that the council includes both industry players and employee representatives.
The minister cautioned that the fishing sector is currently at a critical stage, with total allowable catches declining over the years due to a range of factors, including natural conditions, overfishing and over-catches. She added that population pressures may also be contributing to the strain on marine resources.
Zaamwani said the council is expected to advise on measures to ensure the sustainable management of marine resources for the benefit of both present and future generations, while also strengthening the sector’s contribution to economic development.
She noted that Namibia is widely recognised for its well-managed fishing industry but stressed the importance of balancing harvesting with sustainability.
“We must ensure that we create value from our resources and reinvest that value into infrastructure and development. Namibia’s fishing sector is well managed and serves as a benchmark for many countries,” she said.
Zaamwani added that the industry may require consolidation among players to ensure sustainability and equitable distribution of resources.
She further pointed out that the council’s appointment comes at a critical time, as some fishing quota rights are set to expire at the end of this year and others next year, necessitating careful management.
The minister also revealed that government is in the process of introducing a long-awaited industry scorecard. While consultations have taken place, some stakeholders have raised concerns about the adequacy of the engagement process. -edeklerk@nepc.com.na