Workers in the fishing industry in Walvis Bay staged a pro-test last Monday against the government’s planned auctioning of fishing quotas, warning that the move could worsen employment conditions and threaten job security.
Fishing industry employees, joined by stakeholders and union representatives, marched to the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform to submit petitions opposing the policy. The demonstrators argued that selling quotas to the highest bidder favours large corporations while sidelining local companies and workers.
Protesters said the lack of predictable quota allocation has made it difficult for companies to offer permanent employment, leaving many workers on long-term fixed contracts. They warned that the auction system discourages companies from hiring permanently, as access to fishing quotas remains uncertain. The workers said they are worried about their future. “If quotas continue to be auctioned, companies will not be able to guarantee stable jobs.”
The group submitted three separate petitions, calling on government to halt the auctioning of quotas and instead allocate them directly to established fishing companies. They also proposed the introduction of a scorecard system to reward companies that prioritise permanent employment and job creation.
The Governor of the Erongo Region, Nathalia /Goagoses, joined by the Mayor of Walvis Bay and a rural constituency councillor, in receiving the petitions acknowledged the seriousness of the concerns raised and assured the demonstrators that their demands would be treated with urgency. “This is a very serious issue, and we will not take it lightly,” she said. “We will study your petitions, engage relevant stakeholders, and submit our position to the Head of State through the appropriate ministry.” She added that regional leadership, including local councillors, the mayor, and union representatives, would be consulted to ensure a comprehensive response. She assured protesters that their concerns would be treated with urgency and forwarded through the relevant channels to the Head of State.
Rudi Bowe
