Cabinet clarifies decision on fishing regulations

The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform (MAFWLR) has issued a clarification following confusion over a recent Cabinet decision on fishing regulations.

The ministry said the temporary relaxation allowing trawling in shallower waters — from the 200m isobath to 150m — applies only to the wet landed horse mackerel subsector and is limited to the area between 22°S and 24°S.

It added that waters south of 22°S beyond the 200m isobath remain open to all operators, in line with existing practices.

The designation of specific offshore zones for exclusive use by the wet landed horse mackerel subsector will be determined at a later stage, following consultations with industry stakeholders.

The ministry said it remains committed to transparency and the sustainable management of Namibia’s marine resources.