Blue Benguela current action launched

The European Union (EU) and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), in collaboration with the Benguela Current Convention (BCC) and the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), officially launched the Blue Benguela Current Action Project in Swakopmund on Wednesday.This initiative aims to enhance governance and cross-border cooperation for the sustainable management of the Benguela Current Large Marine Ecosystem (BCLME). With a total budget of €12 million (N$230 million), the project will focus on marine conservation, biodiversity protection, and sustainable economic development in Namibia, Angola, and South Africa.EU Ambassador to Namibia, Ana Beatriz Martins, emphasised the significance of the initiative, highlighting the cooperation between the three countries. She noted that the four-year partnership with the BCC aligns with the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 14—Life Below Water—which remains one of the most underfunded global objectives.“This initiative could not be timelier, as it puts into action the landmark international agreement on Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ), also known as the High Seas Treaty,” Martins said. The BBNJ agreement, finalised two years ago after two decades of negotiations, has been signed by 105 countries, including Namibia, Angola, South Africa, and the EU. The next step is ratification, with the EU committed to completing this process before the UN Ocean Conference in June 2025. Martins urged Namibia to ratify the agreement as soon as possible.Describing the BCLME as a "real treasure," Martins underscored its immense economic value. The marine ecosystem supports rich fishing stocks, oil and gas reserves, and valuable mineral resources, generating over N$4.6 trillion annually for Angola, Namibia, and South Africa. It also provides countless jobs in the region.However, she warned that threats such as overfishing, illegal fishing, marine pollution—especially plastic waste—and climate change are putting immense pressure on this ecosystem. From the total €12 million (N$230 million) budget, the EU is contributing €11 million (N$209 million) to combat these challenges.“We have the resources to address these challenges head-on. This initiative will support marine ecosystem protection, biodiversity conservation, and economic development through regional and country-specific projects,” she said. Strengthening the Benguela Current Convention's secretariat will be key to improving data sharing, policy coordination, and joint management to ensure the long-term sustainability of marine resources.Martins further highlighted the potential for local communities to benefit from the blue economy, which seeks to create sustainable jobs, promote better resource management, and diversify income opportunities. However, she acknowledged that public funding alone will not be sufficient to achieve these goals.“This initiative will engage with a wide range of stakeholders to find suitable financial solutions, addressing issues ranging from sustainable livelihoods to the management of marine protected areas,” she explained.Germany’s continued commitmentGerman Ambassador to Namibia, Thorsten Hutter, noted that 2024 marks the 35th anniversary of German development cooperation with Namibia. Over the decades, this partnership has evolved into a strong and diverse collaboration.“I want to reaffirm Germany’s deep commitment to Namibia, the Benguela Current Convention, and our shared responsibility to protect the health of our oceans,” Hutter said.Speaking on behalf of Fisheries and Marine Resources Minister Derek Klazen, Erongo Region Governor Neville Itope praised the Blue Benguela Current Action as a major step toward uniting regional and international stakeholders in protecting the rich biodiversity of the Benguela Current.“Together, we can ensure that our ocean resources are preserved for future generations while fostering economic growth and social inclusion,” he stated.A long-term commitment to sustainabilityThe 46-month initiative, running from June 2024 to March 2028, is led by GIZ and aims to strengthen the Benguela Current Commission (BCC) and national authorities. The project will enhance fisheries governance, marine resource management, and regional cooperation within the Southern African Development Community (SADC).Key objectives include promoting sustainable fisheries, supporting marine-based businesses, and expanding economic opportunities—particularly for women and marginalised communities. Additionally, the initiative will enhance Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) while seeking innovative financing solutions for long-term marine conservation.By balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability, the Blue Benguela Current Action sets a precedent for responsible ocean management in the region.

Blue Benguela current action launched

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Namibian Sun 2025-03-17

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Blue Benguela current action launched

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Namibian Sun 2025-03-17

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