Government has moved to confront mounting challenges in Namibia’s fishing industry, with President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah signalling the need for urgent policy and operational reforms amid concerns over jobs, declining activity and resource sustainability.
During a working visit to Walvis Bay, the President said the sector, long regarded as a cornerstone of the economy, is facing a period of transition that is reshaping employment patterns and business conditions.
“We recognise that the industry is not what it used to be. Over the years, changes have taken place, some necessary, others difficult, affecting jobs, livelihoods and the daily realities of many Namibians,” she said.
The engagement with industry players comes as government seeks to gather first-hand insight from companies and workers to inform decisions under the Sixth National Development Plan (NDP6).
“We are here to get direct input from the industry’s main role players. This is about understanding what is working and what is not,” Nandi-Ndaitwah said.
The visit reflects growing concern within government over the sector’s trajectory, particularly its ability to sustain employment and continue contributing to foreign exchange earnings and food security.
While reaffirming the importance of the fishing industry, the President made it clear that policy alone will not resolve the sector’s challenges without practical, coordinated responses.
“We are not here to play a blame game. We have come to listen with an open mind,” she said.
Sustainability risks also emerged as a central issue, with pressure on fish stocks raising questions about long-term viability.
“There are growing concerns around the sustainability of fish stocks, and this requires our collective attention,” she said.
As part of the visit, the President is inspecting key operations, including monitoring systems, research vessels and processing facilities, in an effort to assess conditions across the value chain.
The outcome of the engagement is expected to shape targeted interventions aimed at stabilising the industry, protecting jobs and ensuring that resource management supports long-term growth.
“Namibia remains fully committed to a strong, sustainable and inclusive fishing industry,” Nandi-Ndaitwah said.
