Oshikoto – The Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources is set to complete the long-awaited fishing industry scorecard during the 2023/2024 financial year, fisheries minister Derek Klazen announced at the Annual Fishing Industry Address (AFIA) in Walvis Bay on Thursday. Klazen recognized that the development of the scorecard, initially introduced in 2015, has been prolonged due to its complexities. This scorecard is designed to evaluate the performance of each fishing rights holder and determine their quota allocations.

According to Namibian Press Agency (NAMPA), Klazen emphasized the significance of fair and transparent quota allocation processes in achieving socio-economic benefits from the fishing sector. The upcoming industry consultation will take into account the expansion and evolving socio-economic dynamics of the sector. The AFIA event was organized to provide insights into various aspects of fisheries, including stock status, economic performance, and surveillance of Namibian fisheries.

Additionally, the ministry plans to conduct a study in the 2024/2025 financial year to review the criteria for varying fishing rights. This study aims to ensure compliance, fairness, and equity among rights holders. It will assess adherence to variation criteria and inform decisions regarding the continuation or termination of fishing rights.

Matti Amukwa, Chairperson of the Confederation of the Namibian Fishing Associations, highlighted the industry’s challenges due to the delay in finalizing the scorecard. The lack of a clear framework leads to planning difficulties and potential underperformance by rights holders. The industry eagerly anticipates the operationalization of the scorecard.