A fisherman at Samzwe, a fishing camp in the Zambezi Region, demonstrates to FAO officials the smoking technique he uses to preserve fish and reduce post-harvest losses.

Katima Mulilo, Namibia - Under the second phase of the “Implementing the Small-Scale Fisheries Guidelines for gender-equitable and climate-resilient food systems and livelihoods” sub-program, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is continuing with its long-term commitment to uplift the small-scale fisheries sector in Namibia.

From 26-31 August 2024, FAO, in collaboration with the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources (MFMR), organized a series of workshops in Rundu (Kavango East) and Katima Mulilo (Zambezi Region). These workshops targeted small-scale fisheries communities from seven regions: Omusati, Oshikoto, Ohangwena, Oshana, Kavango West, Kavango East, and Zambezi.

Post-Harvest Practices and Market Access

The primary aim of the workshops was to identify training needs for fishermen, fisherwomen, fish vendors, and members of fishery associations to improve post-harvest practices. A market assessment was also carried out to understand current demands and opportunities within the small-scale fisheries sector, specifically in Zambezi and Kavango East region.

“Once the needs assessments are finalized, FAO and MFMR will initiate a series of training activities in various communities. The goal is to equip fishermen and fisherwomen with the skills needed to reduce post-harvest losses, thereby improving the quality and value of their catch,” says Albanus Sindano, FAO National Consultant on Small-Scale Fisheries.

These workshops are part of FAO's broader effort to enhance the livelihoods of small-scale fishers and contribute to gender-equitable and climate-resilient food systems. Key program objectives through Phase 2 of the sub-program include the promotion of climate-smart and responsible practices, particularly in post-harvest fisheries, building on successes from Phase 1.

The sub-program also aims to strengthen small-scale fisheries organizations by fostering collaboration and improving representation, particularly for women; encouraging the development of supportive policies through National Plans of Action for Small-Scale Fisheries; and contributing to global knowledge and learning by sharing Namibia’s experiences with international partners.

Regional Engagement and Gender Representation

The recent workshops had strong community participation, with 45 attendees in Kavango East and 43 in Zambezi, including fishermen, fish vendors, and association members. Notably, gender representation was nearly balanced, with 25 women and 20 men in Kavango East and 26 women and 17 men in Zambezi.

The participants engaged in discussions on market needs and visited local markets, restaurants, and fish camps to assess demand and pricing.

Collins Katanga, a small-scale fisherman based at Samzwe, a fishing camp in Zambezi region, shared several challenges faced by local fishers regarding post-harvest practices and market access. He noted that “hippos are a big challenge, and without proper canoes, our lives are at risk on the river.”

Katanga also highlighted the lack of transportation to move fish from the river to the market, saying, “we struggle to transport fish to the market, and things like coolers would help a lot.” He emphasized the need for increased awareness on good fishing and post-harvest practices, stressing that such knowledge is crucial to ensuring the sustainability of fishing resources in the region.

Expected Outcomes

FAO's sub-program aims to reach all 14 regions in Namibia, providing vital training on post-harvest practices and enhancing market access for small-scale fisheries. While the workshops have already covered the seven regions, the program will extend to Erongo, //Kharas, and other regions in the coming months.

These efforts are in line with Namibia’s National Plan of Action for Small-Scale Fisheries (2022-2026), which seeks to empower small-scale fisheries through responsible resource management, climate-resilient practices, and capacity building. The initiative is expected to result in stronger, more resilient fishing communities, improved collaboration among stakeholders, and greater participation in decision-making processes.