Kavango East Celebrates 13th National Fish Consumption Day
Rundu - Kavango East Region hosted the 13th edition of the National Fish Consumption Day (NFCD) on 04 October 2025 at the Dr. Romanus Kampungu Secondary School in Rundu, a flagship initiative by the Namibia Fish Consumption Promotion Trust (NFCPT) aimed at promoting fish consumption, celebrating Namibian fisheries contribution to national development and sustainable fisheries across the country under the theme “Honour Our Catch, Sustain Our Nation”.
The event was officiated by Honourable Dr. Emma Kantema-Gaomas, Minister of Gender Equality and Social Welfare, who represented the Right Honourable Prime Minister, Dr. Elijah Ngurare.
Delivering her keynote address, Dr. Kantema-Gaomas emphasized the importance of responsible fish consumption and sustainability, noting that this year’s theme, “Honour Our Catch, Sustain Our Nation,” calls on all Namibians, not merely to celebrate fish as a source of nourishment, but to deepen our collective responsibility in ensuring that this resource transforms the lives of our people and strengthens the pillars of national development.
“The work of the Namibia Fish Consumption Promotion Trust embodies this commitment, bridging the gap between abundant national resources and the nutritional needs of ordinary Namibians.” Commended the Honourable Minister.
The Minister further highlighted the importance of improving accessibility by urging local businesses and cooperatives to collaborate with Trust in expanding fish distribution in the region, especially in rural areas where consumption is lower than that of urban areas.
“Fish should not be confined to towns and urban centres, but reach every corner of our rural communities. Together, we can extend the reach of fish distribution, creating both economic opportunities and improved nutrition for our people.” Said Dr. Kantema-Gaomas.
The Minister also used the platform to advocate for integrating fish into school feeding programmes.
“A school child nourished with fish is a child better equipped to learn, to grow, and to succeed. I am calling on regional authorities to include fish in school and hostel menus at least twice a week.” Emphasized the Minister.
During her speech, Dr. Kantema-Gaomas also appealed to the people of Kavango East to adopt sustainable fishing practices to protect the Okavango River to ensure that our children and grandchildren inherit rivers that teem with life. She added that sustainability is not a choice but a duty we owe to future generations.
The event commenced with a Gala Dinner on 03 October 2025 which brought together government officials, industry leaders, and community stakeholders, successfully raising N$ 353,900.00 in pledges.
The funds will be channelled through the Regional Education Directorate to support educational initiatives in Kavango East, underscoring NFCD’s commitment to youth empowerment and social development.