Lderitz: The Namibia Industrial Development Agency (NIDA), in partnership with the African Aquaculture Company and Namibian Atlantic Salmon Holding (NASH), unveiled plans to develop Namibia's first large-scale Atlantic salmon industry. This initiative was announced during a seminar themed 'Unlocking Namibia's Salmon Industry: Opportunity to Industrialisation.'

According to Namibia Press Agency, NIDA Acting Chief Executive Officer Phillip Namundjebo described the project as a decisive step in the development of the Namibia Atlantic salmon industry. He emphasized that the initiative is not just about presenting a project but is also about signaling intent and demonstrating alignment.

Namundjebo disclosed that in December 2025, NASH signed a Heads of Agreement with NIDA, establishing the foundation for an integrated salmon farming venture. This venture will combine offshore production, onshore processing, and export logistics. He highlighted that the agreement was strategic, formalizing a partnership aimed at building a new industrial sector.

According to Namundjebo, NIDA's involvement as an equity partner signifies the government's commitment to oversight and long-term stability, aligning with its mandate to drive industrialization and employment creation. He confirmed that licensing processes are progressing, feasibility studies have been completed, and technical system designs are in place.

Environmental stewardship is considered a foundational aspect of the project. Namundjebo stressed that the coastal town of Lderitz stands to benefit from infrastructure development, job creation, skills transfer, and SME participation. He noted the potential contributions to GDP, foreign exchange earnings, and export diversification, expressing a desire to stop importing salmon and start producing it locally.

He concluded that the initiative is a generational undertaking requiring sustained capital investment and collaboration between government and private sector partners.