An aquaculture company based in Oslo, Norway, has recently obtained an “Offshore Commercial Phase” license to pioneer salmon production in Namibia. The license, valid for 15 years, marks the beginning of commercial salmon farming in the region, announced the African Aquaculture Company (AAC) in a statement released on Thursday.
AAC’s operations will primarily center on three offshore sites strategically positioned northwest of Luderitz, a coastal town in southwestern Namibia. Clement Kaukuetu, President of AAC Namibia Operations, highlighted the company’s plans to produce high-value, omega-rich Atlantic salmon for both domestic consumption and export markets.
Drawing on Norwegian expertise, AAC aims to kickstart the initial phase in early May, targeting a production capacity of 100,000 tonnes per annum. Kaukuetu emphasized the broader implications of salmon farming beyond economic benefits, foreseeing positive impacts on Namibia’s socio-economic landscape, infrastructure development, job creation, and skills transfer.
AAC anticipates creating around 5,000 employment opportunities directly and indirectly, spanning production, in-house services, logistics, and construction sectors. Kaukuetu also revealed AAC’s initiative to establish a local salmon farming association, inviting more stakeholders to participate in the globally lucrative salmon fishing industry.
The venture signals a significant step forward for Namibia’s aquaculture sector, promising to diversify its economy and foster sustainable development while tapping into global markets for premium seafood products.
