In a significant move to foster pan-African collaboration on sustainable development, the Namibian Ports Authority (Namport) recently hosted a delegation from REPOA, a leading Tanzanian research institution. The visit was focused on a key area of mutual interest: the successful implementation and lessons learned from Namibia’s National Blue Economy Policy within the maritime sector.
This timely exchange comes as the global community marks two crucial environmental observances: World Environment Day, with its powerful theme to “Beat Plastic Pollution,” and World Oceans Day, which calls on us to sustain the vital resources that sustain us. These themes resonate deeply with the core principles of the Blue Economy. The delegation from REPOA (Research on Poverty Alleviation) sought to benchmark Namport’s practices and gain firsthand knowledge of how Namibia is translating its ambitious Blue Economy policy into tangible action. As Tanzania and other nations in the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) look to develop their own aquatic potential, Namibia’s pioneering efforts serve as a valuable case study.
Namibia’s Vision: A Thriving and Sustainable Blue Economy
Namibia’s National Blue Economy Policy is a comprehensive framework designed to harness the vast potential of its aquatic ecosystems for national prosperity. The policy is built on the pillars of environmental protection, sustainable production, and social inclusivity. It aims to create a future where economic benefits from sectors like fisheries, marine transport, aquaculture, and coastal tourism are maximized, while simultaneously safeguarding the marine environment and ensuring that the rewards are distributed equitably among its citizens. The ultimate goal is to foster improved human well-being and long-term environmental sustainability by integrating economic activities with ecological responsibility.
Namport: A Catalyst for the Blue Economy
As the custodian of Namibia’s commercial ports, Namport plays a pivotal role in the operationalisation of the Blue Economy. The visiting REPOA delegation was briefed on Namport’s multifaceted strategy which includes:
- Sustainable Port Operations: Implementing green port initiatives to minimize environmental impact, including robust waste management systems and pollution control measures.
- ▪Infrastructure for Growth: Developing world-class port infrastructure that not only facilitates trade but also supports emerging Blue Economy sectors such as marine renewable energy and aquaculture.
- ▪Fostering Trade and Investment: Positioning the Ports of Walvis Bay and Lüderitz as key gateways for regional and international trade, which is fundamental to the economic success of blue industries.
- Community and Social Inclusion: Ensuring that the development of port activities contributes to local employment and social upliftment, aligning with the policy’s emphasis on equitable benefits.
The visit provided a platform for in-depth discussions, knowledge sharing, and a practical look at how policy can be effectively implemented on the ground.
For REPOA, the insights gained will be invaluable in providing research-based evidence to inform the development of effective Blue Economy policies in Tanzania and across the continent. This collaboration underscores a shared understanding that the future of Africa’s development is intrinsically linked to the health of its oceans and inland waters. By sharing expertise and experiences, African nations can collectively advance a model of development that is both economically dynamic and environmentally sustainable for generations to come.