Deputy Prime Minister Natangwe Ithete officially launched the construction of the Vigour Bio-technology Production Facility, which will produce high-value seal and nut oil rich in Omega-3 at Henties Bay.

The facility will provide skilled and semi-skilled jobs, support local SMEs, and work closely with vocational institutions to train youth and women in biotechnology and marine processing.

It will also promote the "Made in Namibia" brand and boost export potential.

Prime Minister Natangue Ithete says the facility aligns with the country's developmental goals of value addition, job creation, and economy diversification.

The Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform, Mac Hengari, says Namibians must play a meaningful role in exploiting the country's natural resources and economic activities.

Urban and Rural Development Deputy Minister Evelyn Nawases-Taeyele described the facility as the one that connects cutting-edge development with the needs and aspirations of the people on the ground.

The Managing Director of Vigor Biotechnology, Charlie Xie, has emphasised the urgent need for Namibia to establish its own laboratories to support and streamline scientific research in the country.

The facility will be constructed in four phases, with the first one costing approximately N$250 million.