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Empowering coastal communities for sustainable futures
“Empowering communities to safeguard our coastal ecosystems is crucial. When communities grasp their role in preserving marine resources, they become active stewards of the environment. This sense of ownership and responsibility is vital for the longterm success of conservation efforts,” says Clemens Naomab, a senior development officer at the Namibia Nature Foundation and a passionate advocate for sustainable marine resource management.
“In Namibia, there’s a general lack of understanding about our ocean and its vast resources. While our focus often revolves around fish – due to both consumption needs and economic dependence – the ocean offers so much more. It’s important for coastal communities to grasp the ocean’s significance and how it intertwines with our daily lives,” says Naomab.
The work Noamab is doing forms part of the NIMPA+ Project, which is looking to improve the management of Namibia’s marine protected areas, focusing on the sustainable use and conservation of marine resources. A key aim of this project is to boost coastal communities’ economic wellbeing through sustainable development practices and effective marine resource management. “Communities need to see how they can actively participate in and benefit from these resources. Traditionally, conservation efforts may focus solely on protecting specific species, but incorporating community involvement is essential,” he adds, highlighting the importance of local voices in conservation.
Naomab has a long history of working with communities in the northwest of Namibia and believes that local communities are the backbone of wildlife preservation. He notes that Namibia is renowned for its effective community-based conservation, and by actively involving communities in sustainable practices, the benefits of conservation can be felt at grassroots level.
The women of the sea
A vital aspect of the project is collaborating with local fishing associations, such as the Benguela Infinite Fisheries and Harvesting Association (BIFHA) and the Namibian Women’s Fisheries Network (NAMFISHNET). NAMFISHNET represents small-scale women fishers who harvest ocean resources for income or food – an often-overlooked demographic in the fishing industry.
“We are working with women’s groups like the Women in Business Association (WIBA) to enhance their market presence. They host market days where they sell their products, and we aim to amplify those efforts through training and support,” says Naomab, who adds that there is currently financial management training underway for WIBA and NAMFISHNET.
Naomab also points out a recent scoping study conducted to assess viable aquaculture businesses. “There’s immense potential for these women to explore avenues like aquaculture,” he notes. “This sector is often commercialised, yet local participation remains limited.”
“The Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources, in partnership with Namport, completed an environmental impact assessment (EIA) to identify suitable aquaculture sites,” he explains. “Our project aims to empower these small-scale fishing associations by ensuring they have the necessary documentation and to help them navigate the aquaculture licence application process,” according to Naomab.
Anria Brandt, the secretary of BIFHA, highlights the significant impact of projects like NIMPA+. “This initiative has sparked a colourful transformation in our town, allowing the community to embrace new opportunities,” she shares.
Partnerships for sustainable impact
The project is built on collaboration, as Naomab explains: “We have signed an MOU with the Lüderitz Town Council, leveraging their insights into the local situation. Our goal is to work with what is available to target actions that can truly make a difference.”
The project’s approach also includes conducting a socioeconomic study to better understand the community's dynamics. “We want to identify gaps in education, healthcare and employment – specifically where people are employed and at what levels. This information will help us pinpoint the community’s needs,” he adds.
When communities grasp their role in preserving marine resources, they become active stewards of the environment. This sense of ownership and responsibility is vital for the long-term success of conservation efforts.
For Naomab, the heart of the NIMPA+ Project lies in collaboration and transformation. “I enjoy working with people and witnessing how a shared vision can lead to meaningful impact. As Lüderitz transforms, we must ask, ‘Is this change benefiting those on the ground?’ Our focus should be on addressing local needs and exploring actionable solutions.”
A vision for the future
With the project set to run until 2028, Naomab is optimistic about its long-term impact. “We aim to establish sustainable systems that can continue beyond the project’s conclusion. Our focus is on laying a foundation that allows these initiatives to thrive independently.”
Through partnerships with organisations like the Benguela Training Institution and Impact Tank, the project aims to provide locals with essential skills and mentorship. “We have identified ten youth in the final phase of their tourism training,” says Naomab. In Lüderitz, where local tour guides are scarce, this training presents important livelihood opportunities as tourism grows in the area.
Brandt notes that this initiative has energised the younger generation and brought vibrant changes to their town, fostering a sense of ownership and pride among residents. “We are thrilled to see many new activities happening and to involve locals in meaningful ways,” she adds.
As Naomab explains, community engagement is critical in sustainable resource management. This approach not only enhances the effectiveness of conservation efforts but also ensures that local voices are heard and valued. By empowering communities, we take an essential step toward building resilient ecosystems and sustainable livelihoods.
