The European Union (EU) and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation have committed N$240 million (€12 million) to the Blue Benguela Current Action programme, an initiative aimed at protecting one of the world’s most productive marine ecosystems.
The programme seeks to safeguard the Benguela Current, which runs along Namibia’s coastline and supports abundant marine resources essential to food security, employment, and economic development across Southern Africa.
“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,” said Erongo Governor Neville Itope.
Germany’s Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) will implement the project, focusing on strengthening regional ocean governance, promoting sustainable economic opportunities, and enhancing climate resilience in Angola, Namibia, and South Africa.
The Benguela Current provides a crucial economic lifeline, contributing approximately 5% to Namibia’s gross domestic product (GDP) and generating N$10 billion annually, according to President Nangolo Mbumba.
“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,” the EU stated.
The programme, running until March 2028, aligns with the Benguela Current Commission’s (BCC) third Strategic Action Programme (SAP 2023-2033) and is expected to reinforce the EU-Namibia partnership for sustainable marine resource management.
“The European Union 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,'” said EU Ambassador to Namibia, Ana Beatriz Martins.
She reiterated the EU’s commitment to strengthening regional ocean governance, ensuring sustainable livelihoods, and preserving marine biodiversity for future generations.
