The increase in the number of seals in the population threatens the fish species in the Namibian waters, hence the need to control them.

Motivating his motion in the National Assembly, RDP leader Mike Kavekotora says a balance needs to be found to protect fish species for human consumption and the conservation of seals.

Situated on the southwestern coast of Africa along the Atlantic Ocean, Namibia is one of the countries endowed with aquatic resources, predominantly fish of various types.

But the abundance of these fish species is threatened by the existence of seals that are feeding on them.

Kavekotora, in his motivation, called for the reduction of seal populations in the Namibian Sea to protect the country's fish stock.

Namibia has a seal population of about N$1,6 million, and on average, each seal eats almost four kilograms of fish daily.

Kavekotora says this number is far too high compared to the 500,000 tons of Total Allowable Catch (TAC) that permit holders are allowed to harvest in the ocean.

Several MPs, including the Minister of Fisheries and Marine Resources, Derek Klazen, supported the motion.

The motion was then referred to the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Natural Resources to obtain public input.

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Author
Jefta Tjihumino