Hertta-Maria Amutenja
Debmarine Namibia has opened its first permanent exhibition at the Lüderitz Maritime Museum.
The exhibition marks the company’s entry into public educational spaces focused on Namibia’s marine diamond industry.
The launch follows the official opening of the museum by former president Nangolo Mbumba in September 2024.
The museum is housed in the old Lüderitz Power Station and forms part of the second phase of the Lüderitz Waterfront Development Company (LWDC) initiative.
Speaking at the event, Debmarine Namibia Chief Executive Officer Willy Mertens said the exhibition aims to support education and promote awareness of the country’s marine resources.
He said the goal is to give young people a chance to learn about the diamond recovery process.
“This space is not just about showcasing our achievements. It is about inspiring the next generation, especially the youth, to understand the value of sustainability, responsible sourcing and the importance of defending our natural heritage,” said Mertens.
He said Debmarine’s operations show how innovation and sustainability are central to modern resource extraction.
The exhibition is designed to inform and educate Namibians, especially school learners.
“We believe that the future of the maritime industry depends on the bright young minds in this room and beyond,” he said.
The exhibition displays information about Debmarine’s offshore diamond recovery methods and its efforts to work in an environmentally responsible way.
Mertens also spoke about the global challenges facing the natural diamond industry, including trade restrictions and the rise of synthetic diamonds.
“Our mission is to educate and advocate for the authenticity and enduring worth of natural diamonds, emphasising their importance not just as gemstones but as symbols of history, craftsmanship and natural wonder,” he said.
LWDC Chief Executive Officer Fluksman Samuehl said the exhibition fits into the museum’s goal of promoting marine awareness and education.
“This exhibition is meant to attract visitors and tourists and to provide education to the Namibian youth. There are people across all corners of Namibia who have never seen or been to an ocean. It is also meant to raise awareness, particularly among the young people,” said Samuehl.
He said the museum was created to preserve the country’s maritime heritage and make it accessible to all Namibians.
The Lüderitz Maritime Museum cost N$450 million to build.
It spans three floors and includes historical artefacts, ship models, fossils, maps, and a library with publications on navigation and seafaring. It is one of the largest maritime museums in Africa.
The late Dr Abraham Iyambo first proposed the idea for the museum in 2004. Cabinet endorsed the plan in 2009. According to earlier statements from the Office of the President, the museum is meant to serve as a centre for education, culture and marine research.
Debmarine’s exhibition is open to the public and will remain a permanent feature of the museum.
