Aquaculture capable of growth – Mukapuli

A parliamentary report has highlighted several hurdles faced by Namibian aquaculture projects that should be addressed to improve the productivity of fish farming in Namibia.

The report was filed following a visit in May by the standing committee on natural resources to ministry of fisheries' aquaculture projects in the Kavango East and West, Omusati, Oshana, Omaheke and //Karas regions.

Swapo member of parliament Hilaria Mukapuli submitted the report, which contains recommendations on aquaculture projects that fall under the fisheries ministry.

“In fulfilling its objectives, the committee visited and had meetings with regional governors, regional councils and ministry of fisheries staff in the regions and meetings with communities (cooperatives) managing fish farms in addition to site visits of all fish farms and research centres,” she said.

Growth potential

The MP noted that there is potential to “exploit the demand and produce fish for local consumption and export."

She said “the introduction of aquaculture farming remains a noble idea capable of exponential growth to feed the nation, albeit the substantial investment required to achieve the objectives. Despite the challenges, fish farms continue to operate, providing much-needed protein to locals at affordable rates,” she said.

However, various challenges are impacting the production capabilities of the sector.

Hurdles

Highlighting some of the challenges the committee observed, Mukapuli said “fish production is seasonal due to the lack of greenhouse plastic covers and roofs required to produce fish all year, thus limiting fish farms to produce at maximum capacity.”

She explained that plastic roofing is not durable enough to withstand strong winds – especially in the south.

"As a result, they are constantly being blown off and breaking up at fish farms where they are in place."

In addition, she said the committee realised that poor quality feed sourced from Zambia has an impact on production capacity, and “budget constraints to repair broken equipment and ponds” are limiting fish farms from attaining full production levels.

“Fish meal availability is limited and expensive, as the companies involved mainly produce it for export markets.”

Mukapuli highlighted the committee's understanding of the ministry's operations regarding the regulation and control of aquaculture and inland fisheries activities for sustainable use and development.