The Freshwater Initiatives for Sustainable Habitats (FISH) project was officially launched through its Inception Meeting, marking an important first step toward strengthening how Namibia’s freshwater systems are protected, managed, and sustained.

The meeting brought together a diverse group of partners and institutions working across Namibia’s freshwater landscape. Researchers, policymakers, conservation practitioners, and educators came together with a shared purpose: to align efforts, learn from one another, and build stronger collaboration around community-managed fisheries reserves and freshwater ecosystem protection.

At the centre of the discussions was a clear message. Freshwater systems cannot be safeguarded by one sector alone. Protecting rivers, wetlands, and fisheries requires coordinated action that links science, policy, local knowledge, and education. Participants reflected on the growing role of community-co-managed fisheries reserves in restoring fish populations, supporting biodiversity, and sustaining livelihoods for thousands of people.

A key contribution came from EduVentures, a project partner that shared plans for awareness and education platforms designed to connect communities, young people, and decision-makers more directly with freshwater conservation. These initiatives aim to make freshwater issues visible, relevant, and actionable beyond the conservation sector.

The FISH project is implemented in partnership by Namibia Nature Foundation and EduVentures, with funding from Solidarität International. Over the coming years, the project will focus on expanding community-led fisheries initiatives, strengthening policy and institutional frameworks, and building platforms for communication, learning, and public engagement.

Looking ahead, the momentum from the Inception Meeting will continue through regional inception activities and a national freshwater symposium planned for later this year. These engagements will create further space for dialogue, shared learning, and collective action.

The FISH project sets out with a clear ambition to build resilient freshwater systems that support both people and nature, now and into the future.