Namibia’s fishing industry raises concern over 2% by-catch cap

NAMIBIA – The fishing industry in Namibia is expressing unease over a Cabinet decision to enforce a 2% ceiling on by-catch, cautioning that the directive could impact jobs and increase operating costs if not properly discussed with stakeholders.

Speaking at the launch of the 13th National Fish Consumption Day in Walvis Bay, Confederation of Namibian Fishing Associations chairperson Matti Amukwa said the announcement was released abruptly through the media without adequate consultation or clarification on its implementation.

The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform has been introducing stricter measures in recent months to secure the long-term health of marine resources.

Among these is the Cabinet’s instruction to apply a uniform 2% by-catch limit across all fisheries, which officials say is intended to preserve fish stocks for future use.

Amukwa, however, warned that such a restriction would immobilize vessels, sharply drive up expenses, and place livelihoods at risk, adding that government action against the sector is effectively action against employment.

By-catch, defined as the unintended harvesting of non-target species, has long been an area of contention in fisheries management.

According to Amukwa, by-catch levels fluctuate depending on the fishing sector and season, meaning that a universal 2% standard cannot be applied fairly.

He urged the ministry to engage with individual industry groups to establish sector-specific limits rather than imposing a blanket figure.

Shifting his focus, Amukwa also criticized what he described as government neglect of more pressing challenges, such as illegal fishing along the northern borders and vessels operating in the 200-metre isobath under research permits.

He said those activities represent far greater risks to Namibia’s fisheries than the by-catch debate and should be treated as urgent violations.

In addition, Amukwa questioned Cabinet’s approval of a 10,000 metric tonne total allowable catch for pilchard, pointing out that the species has been under moratorium for years.

He asked when the ban was lifted and raised concerns over how these quotas would be distributed given that pilchard fishing rights have already expired.

Amukwa concluded by calling for open dialogue between the ministry and industry leaders to address the concerns and to ensure decisions are balanced between sustainability and the realities of fishing operations.

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