‘Mass whale and dolphin sighting at Walvis Bay signals healthy ocean’ – Marine experts 

Renthia Kaimbi

A large group of whales and dolphins seen off the coast of Walvis Bay over the weekend has been described as a sign that marine life feels at home in Namibian waters.

According to Dr Hilkka Ndjaula of the Sam Nujoma Marine and Coastal Research Centre (SANUMAR), the sighting of more than 40 whales and dolphins is rare and significant.
“What’s different this time is the sheer number,” Ndjaula said. 

She noted that smaller sightings are common, but this large gathering suggests the animals are comfortable in the local environment.

Ndjaula said the event could be linked to environmental recovery in the bay, reduced human activity, or improved ocean health, which may have created a safe area for the animals to socialise. 

She added that the group might also have been pushed toward Namibia’s coast by disturbances in other regions, showing that local waters are a refuge for marine life.

“When the whales and dolphins return, it’s nature’s way of telling us we are doing something right,” said Dr Ndjaula.

Fisheries and aquaculture consultant Alushe Hitula said the sighting reflects responsible management of Namibia’s blue economy.


“This is not just a beautiful moment; it’s a reflection of what responsible ocean stewardship can achieve,” Hitula said. 

“When industries like fishing and tourism operate responsibly, we sustain the habitats that marine mammals need.”

Environmental consultant and oceanographer Dr Ekkehard Klingelhoeffer said whale populations have increased since the end of whaling more than 75 years ago. 

He called the sighting a positive sign for marine conservation and research.

Experts told the Windhoek Observer that the sighting aligns with Namibia’s efforts to build a sustainable blue economy that balances development and environmental protection. They said healthy oceans not only support marine wildlife but also create jobs in fishing, aquaculture and ecotourism.

At least 34 species of whales and dolphins are found in Namibian waters, according to the Namibian Dolphin Project. 

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