The University of Namibia and Namport have reaffirmed their commitment to environmental sustainability with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at Walvis Bay Lagoon.
This agreement extends out initiative to assess the ecosystem health and biodiversity of the lagoon and surrounding waters.
UNAM Vice Chancellor, Prof. Kenneth Matengu, highlighted the significance of this collaboration: “Through this MoU, we reaffirm our collective commitment to safeguarding this fragile and invaluable marine environment.
“This agreement marks the second phase of collaboration between UNAM and Namport, building on research conducted from 2016 to 2021.”
The Walvis Bay Lagoon is a Ramsar-designated wetland of international importance, supporting diverse marine life and local fisheries. UNAM’s Sam Nujoma Campus will lead the monitoring programme, conducting field studies and environmental analysis.
Prof. Matengu emphasised the broader impact of this initiative: “This MoU represents more than just research. It is an investment in Namibia’s sustainable blue economy and a chance for our students to engage in scientific work that contributes to national development.”
The renewed partnership will run for three years, funded by Namport at N$3.7 million. Namport CEO, Andrew Kanime, underscored the initiative’s importance: “The Walvis Bay Lagoon is a vital ecosystem. Given our operations’ proximity, it is imperative that we mitigate any potential impact. This partnership allows us to balance economic progress with environmental sustainability.”
Kanime added that the data gathered will guide conservation strategies and international compliance efforts.
“This MoU demonstrates what can be achieved when academia and industry collaborate for a common cause,” Prof. Matengu concluded.
Through this partnership, UNAM and Namport are ensuring the Walvis Bay Lagoon remains a thriving ecosystem for future generations.
