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Duration and Conditions of Fishing Rights in Namibia: Balancing Longevity and Accountability
The allocation of fishing rights in Namibia plays a crucial role in promoting sustainable development, economic growth, and the equitable distribution of benefits. In this blog post, we explore the terms of fishing rights in Namibia, shedding light on the recent changes in duration and the conditions that must be met by right holders. Understanding these factors is essential for fostering accountability, maximizing local participation, and ensuring the long-term viability of the fishing industry.
Evolving Dynamics: Adapting the Duration of Fishing Rights
As the fishing industry in Namibia has matured and faced evolving challenges, the duration of fishing rights has been adjusted to align with the industry’s dynamics. Here’s what you need to know:
1.1 Previous Duration Structure:
- From January 1994 to May 2001, fishing rights were classified into three categories: 4, 7, and 10 years.
- This structure served as a management tool but required adaptation to meet the changing needs of the industry.
1.2 Adjusted Duration of Fishing Rights:
- The duration of fishing rights has been modified to better reflect the industry’s current landscape:
- 7-year fishing rights
- 10-year fishing rights
- 15-year fishing rights
- Introduction of a new category: 20-year rights
Criteria for Different Duration Categories
The duration of fishing rights is determined based on specific criteria and conditions that right holders must meet. Let’s explore the requirements for each category:
2.1 20-Year Fishing Rights:
- Employment of 2,000 or more Namibians on a permanent basis.
- Value addition of at least 75% of the allocated quota.
- Ownership of 60% shares in a factory and/or vessel(s) by a right holder that is at least 80% Namibian owned.
- 100% Namibian ownership with a 25% share in a larger venture.
2.2 15-Year Fishing Rights:
- At least 90% beneficially owned by Namibians with significant investment in vessels or onshore processing facilities.
- Ownership by Namibian right holders of a smaller share in a larger venture.
- Substantial foreign ownership that makes a major economic contribution and overall development in Namibia, with 500 Namibian employees in related onshore activities.
2.3 10-Year Fishing Rights:
- At least 50% Namibian ownership in vessels or operational processing facilities.
- Ventures with less than 51% Namibian ownership but with onshore investments in the fishery.
- Balancing foreign investment and local participation.
2.4 7-Year Fishing Rights:
- New entrants and majority Namibian-owned ventures with at least 50% ownership in vessels or operational onshore processing facilities.
- Ventures with less than 51% Namibian ownership but with onshore investments in the fishery.
- Flexibility for shorter-term rights in specific circumstances.
Ensuring Accountability and Compliance
To maintain the integrity of fishing rights and promote accountability, certain conditions apply:
Evaluation and Extension: Duration and Conditions of Fishing Rights in Namibia
- The evaluation of a right holder’s performance, compliance with fisheries laws and policies, and fulfillment of criteria is essential for extending the terms of fishing rights.
- For example, a seven-year right granted to a wholly Namibian venture may be extended to 15 years based on compliance.
Termination or Downgrading:
- Rights may be terminated or downgraded if a venture no longer meets the criteria under which the right was initially granted.
- Ensuring adherence to conditions helps maintain the alignment of fishing rights with their intended objectives.
The duration and conditions of fishing rights in Namibia reflect the government’s commitment to sustainable development, local empowerment, and accountability in the fishing industry. By adjusting the duration and setting specific criteria, Namibia strives to balance long-term investments, technological advancements, and local participation, ensuring the responsible management of its valuable marine resources.
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