WINDHOEK, June 8 (Xinhua) -- Namibian President Hage Geingob on Thursday urged for collaborative efforts to advance sustainable development of the maritime economy, encouraging investments in renewable energy, tourism and aquaculture.
In his message on the occasion of World Oceans Day, Geingob emphasized the need for ocean protection and sustainable development.
"Namibia is on the cusp of pioneering the production of oil, gas and renewable energy. These industries have unmatched potential to transform Namibia's economic advancement and improve the lives of Namibians. The abundance of natural resources necessitates the full utilization of our oceans," he said.
Geingob emphasized the dependence of Namibia's economic future and the livelihoods of its people on the ocean highlighting the significance of preserving the country's oceanic resources and promoting responsible practices to ensure the sustainability of the blue economy.
Maritime transport accounts for 85 percent of all the country's domestic trade, and Namibia's thriving fisheries sector provides employment, economic prosperity and food security to thousands of Namibians, he said.
"Therefore, Namibia's economic future and the livelihoods of many of its people are highly dependent on the state of our ocean," he said.
