New Compliance Measures Target Excess By-Catch in Namibia’s Hake Sector
The hake fishing industry in Namibia is undergoing significant regulatory changes aimed at curbing the rise in by-catch and ensuring sustainable resource management. Under new compliance measures introduced by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform, fishing companies that exceed by-catch limits will face severe consequences, including public naming, loss of quotas, and even vessel confiscation.
According to Teofilus Nghitila, executive director of water and marine resources, the increasing levels of by-catch have necessitated a stricter financial and regulatory framework. “Companies found to be in violation of these measures will be listed in the public listing of violators on an annual basis,” he stated. This move is intended to hold operators accountable and encourage adherence to sustainable fishing practices.
By-Catch Thresholds and Financial Penalties
Under the revised rules, all fishing companies are required to keep their by-catch within a 2% threshold. Any catch exceeding this limit will be forfeited to the state at no cost, while the amount within the threshold will attract a 50% levy on the landed value of the by-catch. The ministry emphasized that these financial penalties are essential for effective by-catch management.
“The introduction of a strict financial and regulatory framework is essential for the effective management of by-catch. By-catch exceeding this limit will be fully forfeited to the government at no cost and will still be liable for the levy,” the ministry said.
In addition to financial penalties, repeated violations may result in the revocation of licenses, quota deductions, and the confiscation of fishing gear and vessels. Excess by-catch will also be deducted from future quota allocations, further incentivizing compliance.
Quota Reductions and Scientific Monitoring
These measures come in the wake of the Cabinet’s decision to set a once-off total allowable catch (TAC) of 140,000 tonnes for the 2024/25 season. The directive was to gradually reduce future quota allocations to align with scientific recommendations. For the 2025/26 season, the TAC has been set at 133,000 tonnes, based on scientific stock assessments to ensure long-term sustainability.
Ministry data reveals a concerning trend: by-catch in the hake sector has continued to rise. Official figures show an increase from 8,895 tonnes in the 2021/22 season to 11,639 tonnes in the 2024/25 season. In the 2023/24 season, by-catch reached 12,058 tonnes. These numbers highlight the urgency of implementing stricter controls.
Industry Response and Concerns
The Confederation of Namibian Fishing Associations has acknowledged the need for operational adjustments due to quota changes and by-catch controls. However, it emphasizes that maintaining stock health is crucial for preserving the industry’s future. The association stresses that sustainability must remain central when determining harvest levels and compliance obligations.
The sector has also raised concerns about illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing. It has expressed willingness to support the ministry through additional monitoring capacity and logistical assistance. The association maintains that quota levels should continue to be guided by scientific recommendations rather than economic pressures, to prevent long-term resource depletion and instability in the industry.
Technological Support for Sustainable Practices
Namibia is leveraging artificial intelligence tools to enhance the quality, accuracy, and efficiency of its fisheries management. These tools support improved decision-making while maintaining editorial oversight and journalistic integrity. The integration of technology underscores the country’s commitment to sustainable and transparent fishing practices.