The Erongo Region received a significant boost towards community development initiatives this week, as the Office of the Governor secured a N$300 000 contribu-tion from the private sector.

Erongo Governor, Nathalia /Goagoses, expressed her appreciation during an official handover ceremony held at the Merlus Group premises in Walvis Bay. The contribution was made by Kalapuse Fishing in partnership with Merlus Group, combining both financial support and in-kind donations. Kalapuse Fishing, represented by Managing Director Dr Ambrosius H. Iipinge, donated fish products valued at N$100 000, while a further N$200 000 cash contribution was jointly provided by the two companies.

Speaking at the event, /Goagoses described the donation as more than a financial gesture, highlighting its direct impact on communities across the region. “This is an investment in the livelihoods of our people,” she said, adding that partnerships between government and the private sector remain.

The Governor also used the occasion to highlight the Office’s fish-based livelihood initiative, which aims to empower individuals across all constituencies in Erongo through income-generating opportunities within the fisheries sector. In a further commitment, Kalapuse Fishing pledged an annual contribution of N$100 000 towards the initiative, reinforcing its ongoing support for community upliftment.

The engagement concluded with an educational tour of the Merlus Group’s fish processing facilities, offering insight into the operations of one of the region’s key economic drivers.

By Eileen van der Schyff