A new non-profit has been launched to promote sustainable and economically viable fishing in Namibia.
Launched on 26 April 2024, the Namibia Ocean Cluster brings together nine founders dedicated to promoting innovation, identifying markets for by-products and enhancing the socio-economic benefits of the country’s fisheries.
Supported by the World Economic Forum’s Ocean Action Agenda, the cluster is made up of Marine Stewardship Council-certified hake fishing companies Embwinda, Hangana, Merlus, Novanam, Pereira and Seawork, together with three non-fishing associate members, the Fisheries Observers Agency, Namibia Nature Foundation, and Sam Nujoma Campus - University of Namibia.
The cluster is chaired by Pierre le Roux, sales and marketing manager of Seawork. “It has been a fascinating journey with the World Economic Forum team these past three years and now my colleagues and I are committed to succeed in our collaborative full utilisation mission going forward,” he said.
Namibia joins a grown family of clusters around the world and is the first African nation to create its own chapter. Advice was taken from the Iceland Ocean Cluster – leader of the 100% fish movement – which was able to share its experience and best practice.
While the cluster is currently driven by the hake industry, it is open to all fisheries in Namibia. Non-industry parties are also welcome to join associate members.
