Fish mongers at the Katima Mulilo Open Market expressed their appreciation to the Namibian government after their request for the fishing season to continue uninterrupted was accepted.

Since 2016, fishermen and fishmongers in the Zambezi Region could not fish between December and the end of February because the government restricted fishing to allow fish stock to breed.

This affected those who depend on fishing as their only source of income, resulting in many letters written to the government requesting the withdrawal of the closing of the fishing season.

The Katima Mulilo women fishmongers are happy that at least they can buy school uniforms, stationery, and other necessities for their children.

Nasilele Mbala could not hide her joy, thankful for an opportunity to continue feeding and supporting her family.

Her only concern is that fishmongers remain challenged by fishermen who remain hesitant to return to their nets, given the historic closure of fishing season.

She urged fishermen to take note of the latest developments and take up their nets. 

Fishmongers are worried that fishermen do not have updated information on the current status quo.

The Minister of Fisheries, Derrick Klazen, withdrew the declaration of the inland water fisheries reserve of the Zambezi and Chobe systems shared with Zambia and Botswana last year.

This government gazette replaces the Inland Fisheries Resources Act No. 1 of 2003, which was done in consultation with the Zambezi Regional Council and the relevant traditional authorities.