Select Page

Remove misunderstanding between NCCI and fisheries ministry

In order to create a conducive environment through a continuous exchange of information the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources has established associations representing the sub-sector within the fishing industry.

It is through the associations such as Mid-Water Trawling, Monk, Sole, Hake, Small Pelagic, Large Pelagic, Rock Lobster and Mariculture individual right holders and the Confederation of Namibian Fishing Association that the Ministry conveys, consults and discuss the policies rules and regulations.
The working relationship between respective associations and the Ministry remains constructive and value-adding, furthermore the Ministry particularly the office of the Hon. Minister has been continuously engaging individuals’ right holders and other operators in the fishing industry for consultation purposes and to date the platform is considered fruitful in terms of information sharing with an open doors policy.
The fishing rights during 2011 was 122. Today we have 183. The beneficial ownership of these rights is wide spread and broad based, including, amongst others, churches, traditional authorities, regional structures, community groups, elders, the youth, and labour movements aimed at meeting the objectives of the Namibianization of the industry, employment creation, and on shore value-addition. The vast majority of our people from all walks of life, feel empowered today more than ever before. This competitiveness has resulted in new value-adding products developed by the industry and particularly the by new stakeholders.
The achievements of the fishing industry and its contribution to our economy are truly remarkable. Crucial foreign exchange earners sustainable contributes to our economy and remain the leading employer. 15,000 direct and 10,000 indirect employment is created through the Fishing Industry and has become one of the most significant employment creator for Walvis Bay and Namibia. Billions of dollars is generated through the Fishing Industry, with substantial investment been made in Walvis Bay and other all sectors of the economy throughout Namibia.
Many businesses depend on the fishing sector and the quicker we can solve any matter through the round table the better. Business problems can be diluted and solved through consultations and positive minds the parties can find a common solution to any problem and not through the courts.
The relationship between the Chamber of Commerce and the Ministry has been and still very fruitful and supportive and to the best of our knowledge Mr Tarah Shaanika has been a friend and supporter of Hon. Minister Esau. We encourage any misunderstanding which arise to be corrected by Mr Shaanika and their good relationship must continue.
We are aware that the Ministry of Fisheries has an open door policy. Remain calm because negative criticism can give rise to anger or a feeling of insufficiency, expressing negative emotions can only dig us deeper into problems. We must be fair; it is a difficult job to be a Minister of Fisheries, it is almost impossible to make everybody happy. The Walvis Bay Branch of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry support Minister Esau for firmly upholding and respecting the opinions of the industry as partners in the sustainability of our natural heritage and he must control and command the national resource for the benefit of the Namibian people.
The business community are key players in driving the economy of Walvis Bay and we would like to remind our people that the growth and establishment of Walvis Bay is through the fishing industry therefore we cannot afford to disturb this natural heritage. The economic environment in Walvis Bay is very positive we must remain positive and ensure the public that the fishing industry is well managed by the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine resources and the industry will continue to be front runner in creating employment and economic growth in Walvis Bay and Namibia.

About The Author