Namibia workers demand equal stake in fishing industry wealth

Workers in Namibia are demanding an equal share of wealth generated from the nation's fishing resources, moving beyond simple employment relationships. These concerns were raised during a panel discussion at the National Fisheries Indaba in Walvis Bay over the weekend. Participants argued that employees currently lack sufficient security and protection while others benefit significantly from the industry. Unionist Joseph Garoeb stated that workers do not want to remain merely employed but wish to participate equally in the resource itself. He emphasized that political connections, veteran status, or specific affiliations should not determine who receives fishing quotas. The government has already initiated a response to these issues. In April, President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah met with fishing industry stakeholders to discuss sector challenges. Following this meeting, a consultant was appointed to establish a task force comprising seven technical working groups to examine the specific challenges and propose solutions. Garoeb highlighted the need for decent jobs and social protection as part of these required changes. The goal is to ensure ordinary Namibians benefit directly from fishing quotas rather than seeing those benefits concentrate in the hands of a select few.