Namibia Boosts Marine Conservation with Whale Rescue Training

In April, Namibia took a significant step toward strengthening marine conservation by hosting two specialized workshops on Cetacean Strandings and Large Whale Disentanglement, in collaboration with the International Whaling Commission (IWC) and the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform (MAFWLR).

Held in Swakopmund/Walvis Bay and Lüderitz, the three-day workshops combined theory with hands-on field training to prepare local responders for real-life emergencies involving stranded or entangled whales and dolphins. A highlight included the recovery of 500 meters of discarded longline gear during sea training in Walvis Bay — a powerful, real-world learning moment for participants.

In total, 69 participants attended the theoretical sessions, and 25 took part in sea-based training, positioning Namibia as a member of the IWC Global Whale Entanglement Response Network. This initiative also led to the establishment of the Namibian Whale Disentanglement Network (NWDN), coordinated by the Namibia Nature Foundation (NNF), to ensure a skilled and ready team of local responders.

Read more about this news article on the NIMPA Plus website