Namibia Breaks Ground On First Atlantic Salmon Farm

News in Brief: - Namibia is building its first Atlantic salmon farm which will create jobs for citizens and export opportunities. - The project will prioritise sustainable practices and aims to produce 35,000 tonnes of salmon annually. Construction has recently begun on Namibia's first Atlantic salmon farm, a project expected to transform the local economy and position the country as a leader in African salmon production. The Benguela Blue Aqua Farming project was officially launched during a groundbreaking ceremony attended by Namibia's Vice President Netumbu Nandi-Ndaitwa, a news coverage reports. Nandi-Ndaitwa had hailed the project as a game-changer not just for the nation but for the region. She said that it could create jobs and foster new industries in Lüderitz, while generating export opportunities to major markets. Lüderitz mayor, Phil Bilhao, estimates 600 direct positions and an additional 1,500 indirect opportunities. He expressed hope that this economic boost will revitalize the community and provide long-term stability. However, beyond the economic benefits, the project representatives' reiterated their commitment to sustainable practices. They assured that state-of-the-art technology and responsible procedures will be implemented to safeguard the marine ecosystem. Meanwhile, Benguela Blue Aqua Farming has secured permits to cultivate up to 35,000 tonnes of Atlantic salmon annually using submersible net pens. Operations are expected to commence in the second quarter of 2024. Expert projections estimate an initial harvest of around 100 tonnes.