WALVIS BAY— Namibia’s fishing industry continues to pocket millions from by-catches while the government only gets a fraction of the revenue, a report has unearthed. 

In 2023, the total landed value of by-catches stood at a staggering N$428 million. 

Of this, only 15%— approximately N$64 million— ended in the State’s coffers. 

The bulk of the earnings remained in the hands of fishing companies, raising concerns over regulatory gaps and the potential abuse of marine resources. 

The ministry’s spokesperson Uaripi Katjiukua admitted that regulating by-catches remains a challenge. 

“The ministry is deeply concerned about these figures. That’s why we engaged industry players to develop interventions. We are looking into adjusting penalties and exploring stricter regulatory measures,” she stated. 

By-catch occurs when species other than those within the allocated quota are unintentionally caught. 

Fishing companies are allowed a certain percentage of by-catch, but it is strictly regulated. 

Raising the alarm, a report presented last December by the acting director of policy, planning and economics at the fisheries ministry suggested that some of these landings were dubious, and may be deliberate due to their  Regulations state that fishing vessels are permitted to have only 5% of their catches as by-catch. 

Ndesheetelwa Shitenga noted in her report that by-catch volumes have increased sharply, suggesting that the industry may be deliberately targeting high-value species under the guise of by-catch. 

By-catches in the horse mackerel sector stood at 37,434 MT, of which 16,007 MT was mackerel, 12,833 hake and 12,610 were pilchards. 

In 2024, the highest pilchard by-catch was recorded by various fishing vessels: Komesho with 7,054 metric tonnes, followed by Katanga with 1,216 metric tonnes, and Tutungeni with 1,193. Carapau 1 had 711 metric tonnes, and Mediva Star had 682 MT. 

Furthermore, the 2024 data reveals escalating by-catch volumes, with pilchard by-catch in the horse mackerel fishery jumping from 6,504 metric tonnes in 2023 to 12,610 metric tonnes in 2024, despite a moratorium on pilchards being in place since 2018. 

The moratorium was implemented due to the unhealthy state of pilchard stocks, which had collapsed in the mid-1970s due to overfishing and unfavourable environmental conditions. 

Exploitation 

Currently, companies exceeding by-catch limits face fines equivalent to 15% of the landed value of the affected species. However, experts argue that this penalty is insignificant, compared to the profits generated by the industry, making by-catch violations financially viable. 

Asked whether these catches are a deliberate act to increase earnings, Katjiukua told New Era that the ministry cannot confirm whether the catches are intentional, as there is insufficient evidence to support that claim. 

“Nevertheless, the level of by-catch is concerning, and presents several challenges,” she stressed. 

Persistent high by-catches could also put Namibia’s Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certification at risk, particularly for hake. 

“If we continue at this rate, we could lose our MSC certification, which will negatively impact market access for Namibian fish products,” the official warned. 

Fishing nations seek MSC certification to demonstrate their commitment to sustainable fishing practices and ensure the long-term health of fish stocks. This certification helps maintain market access and consumer confidence by proving that fisheries are managed responsibly, and in compliance with international sustainability standards. 

Experts in the sector argue that continued by-catches without proper intervention could result in certain fish stocks collapsing, directly impacting the livelihoods of thousands who depend on the sector. 

The ministry has identified specific vessels responsible for excessive by-catches, and engaged with stakeholders to address the issue. 

“These vessels were named in our December consultation. We want transparency and accountability. The ministry and the industry share a common goal: to ensure that our resources continue to support livelihoods and the economy,” said Katjiukua. 

She added that the ministry currently implements a fine of 15% of the landed value of the concerned species as a deterrent. However, due to the alarming levels of by-catch in recent years, the ministry is considering reviewing the penalty rate. 

-edeklerk@nepc.com.na