Development efforts tied to fishing quotas – industry

Dwindling fishing quota allocations may threaten companies’ ability to undertake development work in the future.

Hina Muashekele, chairman of the Ehanga Fishing operation, made these remarks last Thursday when donating a solar-powered borehole to the Gainatseb Farmers Association at the Swartdam communal farm in the Kunene region.

Fishing quotas are allocated by the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources to companies on an annual basis in line with the total allowable catch, which has been reduced for some species in order to sustain fish populations.

Muashekele said the borehole was part of the hake-fishing company’s social responsibility to help the community access potable water, which aligns with ministry directives that fishing companies re-invest in collective benefit for Namibians.

“Most of our donations are for education efforts, food security, classroom construction and helping individuals with acute medical conditions,” Muashekele said, adding that the company puts aside about N$300 000 of profits for community projects.

Speaking to members of the farmers association, Muashekele said he hoped the borehole would “be the foundation upon which [they] build a future of agricultural excellence”.

At the handover, Sylvia Makgone, deputy minister of fisheries and marine resources, said the borehole is a tangible demonstration of the government’s commitment to supporting irrigation farming. She added that rural development is also a priority as access to clean water for people and animals promotes health and sustainable development.

“This project will provide a reliable source of water for the association, enabling them to increase crop yields and improve their livelihoods,” she said. This enhanced productivity, she said, will allow farmers to contribute meaningfully to the national food basket.

Makgone added that the ministry encourages companies to use their resources to promote good social relationships with communities and emerging institutions.

She paid tribute to founding president Sam Nujoma and urged the community to draw strength from his legacy and continue to work towards a brighter future for all Namibians.

The chairman of the Gainatseb Farmers Association, Ignatius Francis, thanked the government and the Ehanga Fishing operation for facilitating the donation.

“Your commitment to supporting the development of our communal areas is deeply appreciated. This donation is testament to the power of collaboration and the shared vision of a prosperous Namibia,” he said.

He told the farmers the borehole was their lifeline, and they had the responsibility to take ownership and look after it.

– email: matthew@namibian.com.na

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