President Nangolo Mbumba says Namibia’s ocean is a critical economic resource, generating N$10 billion annually and contributing 5% to the nation’s gross domestic product (GDP).
Mbumba said this vital asset, which supports thousands of jobs and ensures food security, faces significant threats from climate change and human activities, underscoring the urgent need for sustainable preservation efforts.
He said this at the World Ocean Day where Namibians gathered along the scenic coastline to celebrate the country’s deep connection to the ocean and emphasise the urgent need for its preservation.
“Our proximity to the ocean has enabled us to benefit from fishing in our ocean and other water bodies, which contribute 5% to our Gross Domestic Product, with revenues of 10 billion Namibia Dollars annually. This industry creates thousands of jobs and significantly contributes to our food security,” President Mbumba stated.
He warned that rising sea levels, ocean acidification, plastic pollution and illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing practices are just a few of the challenges.
“It is therefore imperative that we take urgent action to address these issues before it is too late,” he said.
Mbumba called for a comprehensive approach to mitigate these threats, recommending reducing carbon emissions, eradicating plastic pollution, and actively combating all forms of environmental degradation.
Annely Haiphene, the Executive Director and Chairperson of the Blue Economy Interministerial Committee, emphasised the multifaceted importance of the ocean.
“We have fisheries, tourism, energy and mining all relying on the ocean, and it is crucial to extract and utilise these resources sustainably and in a coordinated manner,” she said.
Haiphene elaborated on the significance of these sectors, highlighting that fisheries are a critical component of the Namibian economy, providing income and food, and employing about 17,000 people.
“Marine transport is essential for the import and export of goods, and our aspiration to become a logistics hub in Africa is heavily reliant on this sector,” she said.
Tourism also plays a vital role, with Namibia’s unique coastline attracting numerous visitors.
“Our ocean meets the desert in a way that is unique to Namibia, drawing tourists who contribute to our GDP and employment opportunities in the hospitality sector,” Haiphene noted.
The mining sector, particularly marine mining, is another key economic driver as mining is the largest contributor to the economy, providing significant foreign income and employing about 4,000 people.
Haiphene added that petroleum is a fast-growing sector with immense future potential.
Reflecting on the broader significance of the ocean, Haiphene highlighted its role in global ecology and human well-being.
“The ocean produces over 50% of the oxygen we breathe and regulates our climate and weather, sustainable management of both renewable and non-renewable resources is essential to prevent depletion and ensure these resources remain available for future generations,” she said.
