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The Walvis Bay Environmental Management and Advisory Forum (WEMAF) convened for its latest meeting on 24 April 2026 at the Namib Conference Room, Municipality of Walvis Bay.
The forum brings together stakeholders from a range of institutions, including the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism, the Municipality of Walvis Bay, the University of Namibia (UNAM), regional local authorities, research institutions, and environmental organisations. Established in 2011, the forum meets regularly to strengthen collaboration and promote sustainable environmental management.
The April meeting covered a range of critical and forward-looking topics. Discussions included an assessment of the ecosystem health and biodiversity status of the Walvis Bay Lagoon, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and conservation efforts. Contributions from environmental organisations also provided insights into marine conservation initiatives and partnerships.
Climate change remained a central focus, with presentations addressing its impacts on coastal municipalities in Namibia, particularly from a disaster risk management perspective. The session emphasised the need for proactive planning and coordinated responses to environmental challenges affecting coastal communities.
Further discussions explored wetland city accreditation, reinforcing Walvis Bay’s commitment to protecting and sustainably managing its unique wetland ecosystems. Youth-focused initiatives were also highlighted, including aquaponics production systems for empowerment and climate adaptation, as well as local agricultural projects such as Farm 37.
Additional agenda items included updates on ongoing Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) and general matters affecting environmental management within the town.
Through continued engagement and collaboration, WEMAF remains a vital platform for strengthening partnerships and ensuring that environmental sustainability remains at the forefront of development in Walvis Bay.
WEMAF is a permanent, broad-based, multi-stakeholder platform that plays a key role in assessing environmental matters, providing advisory input, raising awareness, and supporting the development and implementation of environmental policies, programmes, and initiatives within Walvis Bay.