The Namibian government has tasked the Fish Consumption Promotion Trust with establishing at least three community fish markets to make fish more affordable and accessible, particularly in rural areas. Deputy minister of agriculture, fisheries, water and land reform Ruthy Masake announced this during the inauguration of the trust's new board of trustees in Windhoek. The markets aim to serve communities where people struggle to access affordable fish.
The initiative could create jobs and support small businesses in the areas where the markets are established. Masake said the board must work with regional councils, local authorities and communities to identify suitable locations for the markets. The trust's new board consists of chairperson Lot Ndamonomhata, Charlene Hartung, Olivia Shuuluka, Ndahalomwene Gotlieb and Wilfried Naibab.
Masake urged the board to improve fish transportation, storage and distribution, particularly in communities far from the coast. She also called for better financial management, saying the trust must use public resources responsibly and set clear targets for its projects. The ultimate objective is to ensure that the trust delivers tangible and measurable benefits to the people it was established to serve.
The new board chairperson, Lot Ndamonomhata, said the trust recorded a N$19 million deficit in 2024 due to rising harvesting and operating costs, cheaper imported fish and other challenges. He attributed the financial difficulties to changing business conditions, not mismanagement. Ndamonomhata committed to pursuing financial sustainability alongside affordability.
Ndamonomhata explained that the trust operates on a cost-recovery basis, aiming to cover its expenses rather than make a profit. Any surplus could help the trust expand its services to more communities. He raised concerns about rising transport and distribution costs, which make it difficult to supply fish to communities far from the coast.
The board will work with small vendors and entrepreneurs to improve fish distribution and create jobs. Ndamonomhata said the trust will review its operations and find ways to keep fish affordable without placing more financial pressure on consumers. The goal is to return to breaking even or achieving a surplus.
The establishment of community fish markets and improved distribution are expected to increase access to affordable fish and support local economies. The trust's efforts will be crucial in ensuring that Namibians benefit from the country's fish resources. Key initiatives will focus on financial sustainability, job creation and community engagement.
Key points
- The Fish Consumption Promotion Trust aims to establish three community fish markets.
- The trust recorded a N$19 million deficit in 2024.
- The board will work to improve fish transportation, storage and distribution.
