President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has expressed strong support for plans to establish Namibia’s first large-scale Atlantic salmon industry during a meeting with the Namibia Industrial Development Agency (NIDA) and Namibian Atlantic Salmon Holding (NASH).

The proposed offshore salmon farming project, set for Lüderitz, is developed in partnership with the African Aquaculture Company and aims to create a fully integrated value chain encompassing offshore and onshore farming, local smolt production, processing, and export.

“I was particularly impressed by NIDA’s exciting project,” President Nandi-Ndaitwah said. “It is important for the Namibian nation to know we are diversifying and exploring how to better utilise our marine resources. This project is an excellent example, and I am personally excited about it.”

With Namibia’s well-established fisheries infrastructure and export capacity, the salmon industry is expected to bolster industrial growth and economic diversification. Projections estimate that the industry could create up to 35,000 jobs across farming, processing, and supply chain roles at full scale.

Clement Kaukuetu, NASH Country Director, outlined the company’s structure:
“This is the first time salmon farming is being done on the African continent, right here in Namibia. The holding company oversees several components including offshore salmon production and local hatchery operations through Benguela Smolt, which is already registered in Namibia. Our vision is not simply a farming project but the establishment of an entire salmon industry.”

Government participation through NIDA may include an equity stake to ensure alignment with national policies and encourage local involvement. The initiative aligns with Namibia’s broader efforts to expand its ocean-based economy and leverage marine resources for sustainable industrial development. Collaborations with institutions such as the Government Institutions Pension Fund aim to mobilize capital dedicated to marine industries.