Former finance minister Iipumbu Shiimi wants government fishing auctions expanded after earning 944 million dollars over four years. Corrupt officials previously used government fishing quotas to steal 300 million dollars during the Fishrot scandal. The state started selling fishing rights openly rather than giving them to chosen companies. Auction reforms began during 2021 and brought much higher returns than basic fishing fees. Government plans use auction money for education, health, housing and veteran programs.
Fishing industry leaders oppose the auction system and call it legally questionable. Confederation chairperson Matti Amukwa says auctions create unfair competition and break industry rules. The Marine Resources Act only allows quota sales during emergencies according to fishing associations. Industry critics worry the government becomes the biggest quota holder without creating jobs or adding value. Some fishing operators avoid normal commitments placed on regular right holders through auction purchases.
Current minister Inge Zaamwani-Kamwi promises transparency and supports local vessel ownership. The fishing sector contributed four percent to national economic output during 2024. Export earnings reached 13.8 billion dollars and supported over 19,000 jobs across the country. Almost all fishing rights holders maintain complete Namibian ownership under current policies. The ministry reviews fishing laws and develops new management plans for key species.
Fishing industry leaders oppose the auction system and call it legally questionable. Confederation chairperson Matti Amukwa says auctions create unfair competition and break industry rules. The Marine Resources Act only allows quota sales during emergencies according to fishing associations. Industry critics worry the government becomes the biggest quota holder without creating jobs or adding value. Some fishing operators avoid normal commitments placed on regular right holders through auction purchases.
Current minister Inge Zaamwani-Kamwi promises transparency and supports local vessel ownership. The fishing sector contributed four percent to national economic output during 2024. Export earnings reached 13.8 billion dollars and supported over 19,000 jobs across the country. Almost all fishing rights holders maintain complete Namibian ownership under current policies. The ministry reviews fishing laws and develops new management plans for key species.
