Crayfish for all: Subsidy hailed as symbol of community upliftment
Accessible delicacies
The Lüderitz Crayfish Festival Trust's subsidy initiative allowed vendors to sell crayfish for just N$35 compared to the usual N$150.
Deputy fisheries minister Ruthy Masake last week hailed the introduction of a seafood vendor subsidy by the Lüderitz Crayfish Festival Trust as a commendable initiative.
“The act of making crayfish available at just N$35 compared to the usual N$150 honours the dignity of every person and makes our oceans treasures accessible to all," she said.
"This is a true celebration of people, for the people. Your vision and efforts not only enrich this festival, it also contributes to our national development goals by advancing equitable growth and sustainable livelihoods,” the deputy minister said in her keynote speech at the official opening of the annual Lüderitz Crayfish Festival on 1 May.
Masake also used the platform to acknowledge Workers Day and paid tribute to the Namibian workforce overall.
“Workers' Day is not just a holiday. It is a reminder that our people are our greatest resource. Those who toil on our boats, in our factories, on our farms and across all sectors that sustain our livelihoods are the backbone of our economy," she said.
"On this day we reaffirm our commitment to creating opportunities that uplift our workers and enable small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to thrive in dynamic sectors like oil, gas and green hydrogen.”
Namibian spirit
Masake, moreover, praised the Lüderitz Crayfish Festival's programme, which she said reflects a spirit of inclusivity.
“The festival has grown into a hallmark of unity, culture and economic vitality since its inception in 2008. There are activities, sporting events and entertainment for young and old. This diversity strengthens our sense of belonging and encourages tourism that benefits our local economy and the workers,” she said.
The deputy minister added that the more than 80 exhibitions by both corporate entities and SMEs illustrate the innovation and drive of the Namibian nation. “The Crayfish Festival is a reflection of what our communities can achieve when supported and empowered. It brings together not just the best of our cuisine but also the energy of our small businesses, entrepreneurs and the youth.”
The festival took place from 29 April to 5 May.
“The act of making crayfish available at just N$35 compared to the usual N$150 honours the dignity of every person and makes our oceans treasures accessible to all," she said.
"This is a true celebration of people, for the people. Your vision and efforts not only enrich this festival, it also contributes to our national development goals by advancing equitable growth and sustainable livelihoods,” the deputy minister said in her keynote speech at the official opening of the annual Lüderitz Crayfish Festival on 1 May.
Masake also used the platform to acknowledge Workers Day and paid tribute to the Namibian workforce overall.
“Workers' Day is not just a holiday. It is a reminder that our people are our greatest resource. Those who toil on our boats, in our factories, on our farms and across all sectors that sustain our livelihoods are the backbone of our economy," she said.
"On this day we reaffirm our commitment to creating opportunities that uplift our workers and enable small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to thrive in dynamic sectors like oil, gas and green hydrogen.”
Namibian spirit
Masake, moreover, praised the Lüderitz Crayfish Festival's programme, which she said reflects a spirit of inclusivity.
“The festival has grown into a hallmark of unity, culture and economic vitality since its inception in 2008. There are activities, sporting events and entertainment for young and old. This diversity strengthens our sense of belonging and encourages tourism that benefits our local economy and the workers,” she said.
The deputy minister added that the more than 80 exhibitions by both corporate entities and SMEs illustrate the innovation and drive of the Namibian nation. “The Crayfish Festival is a reflection of what our communities can achieve when supported and empowered. It brings together not just the best of our cuisine but also the energy of our small businesses, entrepreneurs and the youth.”
The festival took place from 29 April to 5 May.
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