Kavango fish farmers held back by borrowing fears, governor says

Kavango East governor Hamunyera Hambyuka has urged fish farmers to overcome their fear of borrowing and make use of available financing, warning that without capital, aquaculture will remain a small-scale survival activity rather than a viable commercial sector.

Speaking to Namibian Sun after completing a three-day tour of aquaculture projects last week, Hambyuka said he met farmers at various stages of development, from those who have stocked thousands of fish to others who have yet to activate their ponds despite receiving training.

Hambyuka said what stood out during the visit was not a lack of interest or commitment, but hesitation to access funding.

“You cannot run a business with a zero balance,” he said. “All businesses that are doing well somewhere have a loan. Our people are afraid to take loans, but if you want to grow, you must have capital.”

He encouraged farmers to approach institutions such as the Development Bank of Namibia (DBN), Agribank and environmental funding mechanisms, adding that the Office of the Governor stands ready to assist with recommendations and guidance in drafting viable business plans.

Farmers have been invited to approach the governor’s office individually next month to explore funding pathways.

According to Hambyuka, aquaculture should be positioned alongside livestock farming, which receives more official support and enjoys established market systems.

He suggested that fish farmers could organise coordinated sales or auction-style marketing events to stimulate demand and visibility.

“Why can’t fish farmers also organise themselves and say, 'This month we are selling'? Let buyers come prepared.”

Untapped potential

However, beyond access to finance, the tour exposed deep-rooted challenges threatening the sustainability of the sector.

A major concern is the ongoing shortage of fish feed. Farmers reported struggling to access proper feed supplies, forcing some to improvise with household leftovers and alternative materials simply to keep their stock alive. Without proper nutrition, fish growth slows significantly, delaying production cycles and potential income.

 Infrastructure gaps were also evident. Some operations lack fencing, leaving ponds exposed to theft and predators. In certain areas, facilities previously established with government support were vandalised after being left unattended, with equipment and fencing stolen. In others, limited manpower means a single worker is responsible for managing and safeguarding entire operations.

Natural threats further complicate matters, particularly in areas close to rivers where crocodiles have reportedly entered ponds and preyed on fish stock.

Marketing remains weak link

Marketing remains another weak link. Hambyuka observed that many aquaculture projects operate with little to no visibility, with even nearby residents unaware that fish is being farmed in their communities. Without coordinated marketing strategies, farmers struggle to secure reliable buyers, even when stock is ready.

“It does not help to operate quietly,” the governor said, suggesting that farmers could pool resources to collectively promote their products rather than working in isolation.

Hambyuka acknowledged that government intervention must extend beyond encouragement.

He indicated that engagement with the relevant line ministry would be necessary to ensure fish farmers receive structured support comparable to other agricultural sectors.