Fish consumption patterns in Namibia have increased over the years, especially in the northern regions.

In the drive to promote fish consumption, the Namibia Fish Consumption Promotion Trust (NFCPT) will hold the 13th National Fish Consumption Day in September at Rundu to encourage local consumption.

NFCPT Chairperson, Suzan Ndjaleka, said, "According to the UNAM 2023 per capita fish consumption report, which we ought to inform you about, we have made significant progress. The national per capita consumption has risen from 16.59 kilos in 2021 to 18.5 kg in 2023. It is a clear sign of changing dietary patterns and greater appreciation of the fish that you provide and its primary protein source."

The Chairperson of the Promotion Trust attributed investment into fish shops in all the regions as the main driver of consumption growth.

Stakeholders expect the 13th National Fish Consumption Day to further contribute to this growth.

The Chief Executive Officer of NFCPT, Victor Pea, noted that, "The premise of the issue is the market day on the 27th of September in Rundu, and this is when now we celebrate. We again do demonstrations, cooking competitions and exhibitions, and of course the SMEs in the region are welcome, they can bring their bream and also sell their produce. Ideally I don't want to see red meat, but any other supplementary product is welcome, but the fish should be the one that is dominating the whole event."

The day will be celebrated with activities such as sport between the 15th and 25th of September to create awareness about the day.

A fundraising gala dinner will be held on 26 September at Rundu, and the funds will be used to address education needs in the region.