Windhoek, Feb 24 (NationPress) Namibia is setting its sights on salmon aquaculture as a pivotal element for fostering industrialization and advancing a sustainable blue economy, according to Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Land Reform, Ruthy Masake, who made this announcement on Tuesday.

During a conference entitled 'Unlocking Namibia's Salmon Industry: A Pathway to Industrialization', Masake highlighted the nation's ambition to transition from conventional wild-catch fishing to high-value aquaculture and agro-processing sectors.

"Harnessing the potential of Namibia's salmon industry offers a genuine opportunity for economic transformation through value chain enhancement," she remarked, as reported by Xinhua News Agency.

Masake indicated that the establishment of a local salmon value chain could catalyze foreign direct investment, generate skilled and semi-skilled employment, fortify cold-chain and agro-processing infrastructure, and boost export earnings.

Globally recognized, salmon represents one of the most traded and consumed fish species, commanding premium markets across Europe, Asia, and North America. She noted that Namibia's cold Benguela Current system, stable governance, and favorable investment policies afford the country a competitive edge in salmon aquaculture.

According to Masake, this industry could also invigorate associated sectors such as feed production, logistics, packaging, and research and technology development, thereby fostering a broader industrial ecosystem.

As climate change and overfishing exert pressure on wild fish populations, aquaculture is increasingly regarded as a sustainable approach to fulfilling global seafood requirements. Industrial salmon farming, she asserted, would enable regulated production, enhanced biosecurity, and more predictable outputs.

This initiative could minimize reliance on unpredictable wild catches, bolster domestic protein supplies, and improve climate-resilient food systems, Masake noted.

She emphasized that the advancement of the salmon industry must be founded on responsible environmental practices and comply with international standards concerning water quality, waste management, and biodiversity conservation.

Namibia stands to benefit by integrating green energy and scientific research collaborations into the sector's development, Masake added.

The deputy minister also advocated for robust public-private partnerships, clear regulatory frameworks, investments in research and skill development, and inclusive policies that prioritize women and youth within the emerging industry.