Patience Makwele
Marine biologist and blue-economy entrepreneur Josephine Edward says Namibia can unlock new industries and employment opportunities by investing in ocean innovation, research commercialisation and youth-led enterprises.
Edward, the founder and managing director of Lady Marine Consultancy, believes Namibia has the scientific knowledge, marine resources and young talent needed to build a more diversified blue economy.
Her journey into marine science began after she was recognised as Oshana region’s top-performing Grade 12 learner, earning her a scholarship from the Norwegian Embassy to study Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences at the University of Namibia, where she obtained an Honours degree. She later completed a master’s degree in Biodiversity and Conservation Biology at the University of the Western Cape.
Before establishing Lady Marine Consultancy, Edward worked at the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources, where she specialised in ichthyoplankton research, the study of fish eggs, larvae and the identification of critical spawning grounds that support the sustainability of Namibia’s fisheries.
Drawing from her experience in marine research, fisheries management and entrepreneurship, Edward said she believes Namibia must move beyond viewing the ocean only through the lens of traditional fishing.
“Fisheries remain important to our economy but they represent only one component of the blue economy. Opportunities also exist in aquaculture, marine biotechnology, ocean-based agricultural products, sustainable animal feed, pharmaceuticals, seafood value addition and digital technologies supporting maritime industries,” she said.
Edward said Namibia already produces valuable marine research that contributes to policymaking, sustainable resource management and the protection of marine ecosystems but more needs to be done to turn scientific knowledge into commercial opportunities.
“Research that informs policy and resource management is essential but applicable scientific knowledge should also be transformed into solutions that create industries, businesses and employment,” she said.
Through her consultancy, Edward is working to demonstrate how marine knowledge can be translated into practical solutions. The company has developed Benguela Seaweed Fertilizer, an agricultural input produced from locally accumulated seaweed biomass.
The consultancy is also exploring the development of animal feed derived from marine plants, as well as other ocean-based products with potential pharmaceutical applications. It provides services in aquaculture, fish farming, marine scientific research, biodiversity and environmental management.
However, Edward said limited access to dedicated blue finance remains one of the biggest challenges facing innovators who want to commercialise ocean-based ideas.
“Many investors want to see proven commercial success before investing, yet innovators require early-stage funding for research, development, testing and commercialisation to reach that point,” she said.
She called for greater collaboration between government, universities, financial institutions and the private sector, including dedicated blue-innovation funds, research and development grants and patient capital to support emerging businesses.
Edward said young people should not only be viewed as job seekers but also as researchers, innovators, entrepreneurs and future industry builders.
She said that she hopes Lady Marine Consultancy can become a platform for research commercialisation, innovation, training, mentorship and employment creation for women and young people.
“Namibia’s ocean should be recognised as a space for innovation, value addition and sustainable industrial development. With access to finance, research infrastructure, mentorship and commercialisation pathways, young Namibians can develop environmentally responsible solutions that create employment, strengthen food security and position Namibia as a leader in ocean innovation,” she said.
