Renthia Kaimbi
The Wet Landed Small Pelagic Association (WLSPA) met with President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah at State House on Monday to discuss the sustainability and economic transformation of Namibia’s horse mackerel sub-sector.
WLSPA chairman Johny Johnson Doëseb said the meeting discussed key issues affecting the horse mackerel subsector within the fisheries industry.
The association, representing companies involved in onshore fish landing and processing, used the four-hour closed-door meeting to call for policies that promote value addition, protect existing jobs, and create new employment opportunities, especially for youth and women.
“Our discussions focused on value addition, safeguarding existing jobs, and creating sustainable employment opportunities for young Namibians,” Doëseb said.
“We also emphasised the importance of innovation in improving livelihoods, enhancing competitiveness, and ensuring the sustainable management of marine resources while protecting the environment and national food security.”
The meeting was described as a key step in aligning government policy with industry priorities, particularly in promoting wet-landing practices, which the association believes provide greater long-term socio-economic benefits than offshore processing.
“We had a very fruitful and constructive engagement where mutual understanding prevailed,” Doëseb said. “We deeply appreciate Her Excellency’s open-door policy and visionary leadership, which continue to foster collaboration between the government and the private sector in finding practical solutions to the challenges facing our industry.”
He reaffirmed WLSPA’s commitment to working with government.
“Her Excellency once again demonstrated strong leadership and dedication to ensuring Namibia’s natural resources benefit all Namibians. Together, we are stronger and better,” he said.
