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[QUOTE="Munyaradzi Mafaro, post: 46244, member: 636"]
Namibia banned pilchard fishing seven years ago after fish numbers dropped to dangerous levels. Agriculture Minister Inge Zaamwani-Kamwi told parliament Tuesday that zero fish counts for three straight years forced the ban. The government wants fish populations to recover before allowing fishing again. Current surveys show positive signs with 850,000 metric tonnes of pilchard swimming off the coast. Scientists say the population needs to reach one million metric tonnes before fishing can restart safely.

Fishing boats continue catching pilchard accidentally during other fishing operations. The minister expressed concern that some crews may be catching pilchard on purpose rather than accident. Fisheries observers order boats to move to different areas when they spot large pilchard catches. Many vessels ignore these orders and keep fishing where pilchard swim. Officials believe some fishing companies deliberately target the banned fish species.

Current punishment for illegal pilchard fishing fails to stop the problem. The ministry plans stronger rules to protect recovering fish populations. New measures may include tighter limits on accidental catches and better surveillance systems. Higher fines could discourage boats from breaking fishing laws. The government wants to ensure pilchard numbers grow strong enough to survive natural population changes.
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