Namibian fishing industry divided over Cabinet's relaxation of 200-metre isobath rule

Namibia's fishing industry is currently divided over a recent Cabinet decision to temporarily relax trawling limits for the wet-landed horse mackerel subsector. The new rule, effective from May 1 for 12 months, allows trawling from 200 metres to 150 metres. This change primarily benefits Gendev Fishing and Princess Brand, the only companies in the wet-landed horse mackerel sector, which operate four vessels and employ approximately 1,300 workers in land-based factories. Matti Amukwa, chairperson of the Confederation of Namibian Fishing Associations, expressed strong concerns, stating that the relaxation grants exclusive access to a small group of vessels, potentially excluding over 90 other vessels, including freezer, hake, and monk vessels, from a significant portion of the horse mackerel fishing zone. Amukwa also highlighted that the decision contradicts warnings from government scientists, as the 150 to 200-metre zone is a recognized breeding and nursery area, risking long-term sustainability for short-term gain. He called for clarification from the government regarding fishing areas for other vessels and suggested that the competition commission should review the decision due to its anti-competitive nature. Conversely, Johnny Doeseb, chairperson of the Wet Landed Small Pelagic Association, welcomed the decision, viewing it as a move that supports both economic activity and sustainable resource management. He believes the change will improve operational efficiency, enhance