ANNUAL REPORT 2011 - University of Namibia

THE UNIVERSITY OF NAMIBIA 

SAM NUJOMA MARINE AND COASTAL 

RESOURCES RESEARCH CENTRE 

(An Operating Unit of the United Nations University Institute of Natural Resources in Africa— 

UNU/INRA) 

ANNUAL REPORT 2011

Table of Contents 

1. VISION ....................................................................................................................................... 1 

2. MISSION .................................................................................................................................... 1 

3. INTRODUCTION...................................................................................................................... 1 

4. STAFF MEMBERS OF THE CENTRE.................................................................................. 2 

5. SANUMARC’S STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT ACTION PLAN & BALANCED 

SCORECARD FOR 2011 ....................................................................................................... 3 

6. THE SANUMARC BOARD ..................................................................................................... 6 

7. MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS DURING 2011 .................................................................. 7 

8. FACILITIES AND INFRASTRUCTURE .............................................................................. 9 

9. RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITIES ........................................................... 10 

Marine Science Research ........................................................................................................ 10 

Mariculture Research ............................................................................................................. 14 

Seaweed Research ................................................................................................................... 15 

Mushroom Research ............................................................................................................... 18 

Coastal agriculture & plant biodiversity research ............................................................... 19 

10 OTHER ACTIVITIES............................................................................................................ 22 

United Nations University Institute for Natural Resources in Africa 25th Anniversary . 22 

SANUMARC Trust ................................................................................................................. 22 

11 PUBLICATIONS: TECHNICAL REPORTS, SCIENTIFIC PRESENTATIONS AT 

CONFERENCES AND POSTERS ..................................................................................... 23 

Technical Reports .................................................................................................................... 23 

Scientific Presentations at Conferences ................................................................................ 23 

Scientific Posters ...................................................................................................................... 24 

12 TRAINING SUPPORT .......................................................................................................... 24 

13 COMMUNITY OUTREACH ................................................................................................ 25 

Science and Technology Promotion ....................................................................................... 25 

14 NOTABLE VISITORS TO THE CENTRE ......................................................................... 27 

15 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS ................................................................................................... 28 

ii

1. VISION 

To become a centre of excellence in science and technology research in marine and coastal 

resources, in order contribute to global efforts to promote food security and eradicate poverty. 

2. MISSION 

To promote sustainable development and responsible utilisation of marine and coastal resources 

based on environmentally sound management for the benefit of Namibia and the people of the 

SADC region. 

3. INTRODUCTION 

SANUMARC had a rather quiet year in 2011, this was primarily due to the coming to an end of 

the stay of Dr. Larry Oellemann at the Centre and the search for a new substantive Director. Dr. 

Oellerman had acted as the Director since the beginning of 2010. Dr. Oellerman eventually 

resigned by May 31, 2011 and Prof. Edosa Omoregie was appointed at the Director, effective, 01 

June, 2011. 

Figure 1: Presentation of farewel gift to Dr. Larry Oellermann by the Chairperson of 

SANUMARC Board, Prof. Osmund Mwandemele 

For the most part, the few research activities and collaborations carried out were quite successful, 

most notable was the very successful research cruise carried out under the Science for the 

Assessment of Complex Earth System Processes (SPACES) programme which was coordinated 

by the Centre. 

The successful completion of a Ph.D. degree by the Deputy Director, Dr. Diina Shuuluka from 

the University of Cape Town, was the highest point of achievement recorded by the Centre in 

terms of staff development efforts. Similarly, the Office Administrator, Ms Elizabeth Hill also 

successfully completed a Diploma programme in Adult Education and Community Development 

from the University of Namibia. 

Management and staff of SANUMARC did excellently well in 2011 in their continuous strides in 

attracting visitors to the Centre. Partnerships and relationships with local, regional and 

international organisations and institutions grew go from strength to strength, and SANUMARC 

has gained the much needed international reputation. 

1

4. STAFF MEMBERS OF THE CENTRE 

For the very first time in many years, all the HR approved positions for the Centre were filled in 

2011, this was however, not with the various resignations that happened during the year. The 

beginning of the year, saw the resignation of Ms N. Amutenya, the Mariculture Technician. As 

stated earlier, Dr. Oellerman resigned as the Commonwealth Advisor for Aquaculture and Acting 

Director in May. Mr. Ryno M. Kajau, the Estates Officer resigned in April and, Mr. Fabian 

Mubiana, the Mushroom Researcher resigned in June. 

These resignations, however, did not deter the Centre Management in striving for greater heights. 

The Centre’s Management ensured that the vacant positions resulting from these resignations 

were filled, as well as making all efforts to fill already UNAM’s Management approved 

positions that were yet to be filled. 

Mr. Kaspar Shimooshili was appointed in June to fill the vacant Mariculture Technologist 

position, Ms. Martha Hausiku for the Mushroom Researcher’s position. The Coastal Agriculture 

Researcher position which has been vacant for two years was filled by the appointment of Mr. 

Edgar Mowa in the capacity of Researcher in November. Mr. Andreas Namwoonde was 

appointed in November as Renewable Energy Researcher, a position that has been so difficult to 

fill over the previous years. 

Table 1. SANUMARC staff complement for 2011. 

Name 

Prof. Edosa Omoregie 1 

Dr Larry K. Oellermann 2 

Dr. Diina Shuuluka 

Mr Flip van Vuuren 

Mr. Andreas Namwoonde 

Mr. Edgar M. Mowa 

Mr Marthinus N. Kooitjie 

Ms. Martha Hausiku 

Mr. Kaspar Shimooshili 

Mr Fabian Mubiana 3 

Mr Ryno M. Kajau 4 

Ms Elizabeth Hill 

1 

Appointed as Director in June 

2 

Resigned in May 

3 

Resigned in June 

4 

Resigned in April 

Position 

Director & Researcher (Marine Science) 

Commonwealth Advisor & Acting Director 

Deputy Director & Researcher (Seaweed) 

Projects Manager 

Researcher (Renewable Energy) 

Researcher (Coastal and Desert Agriculture) 

Assistant Researcher (Mariculture) 

Assistant Researcher (Mushrooms) 

Technologist (Mariculture) 

Technologist (Mushrooms) 

Estates Officer 

Office Administrator 

2

5. SANUMARC’S STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT ACTION PLAN & 

BALANCED SCORECARD FOR 2011 

The Strategic Management Action Plan (SMAP) and Balanced Scorecard for 2011 for 

SANUMARC, which cascades from the overarching UNAM Strategic Plan for 2011 to 2015 was 

implemented. However, the change in the leadership of the Centre slightly affected the full 

implementation, as 2011 was a transitional year in the Centre’s leadership. The Balanced 

Scorecard for 2011, which measures progress towards achieving strategic objectives through a 

series of initiatives is presented herewith in Table 2. SANUMARC strategic objectives as they fit 

into the University overall objectives are presented in Table 3. 

3

Table 2. SANUMARC’s Balanced Scorecard for 2011. 

Directorate Strategic 

Objectives 

Improve relevance of programs 

through stakeholder 

interaction 

Improve the capacity of staff 

Increase number of research 

projects 

Increase number of successful 

community outreach projects 

Improve dissemination of 

information 

Maintain existing facilities & 

infrastructure 

Seek new partnerships & 

linkages & maintian existing 

relationships 

Increase sources of revenue for 

Centre 

Measures 

Target 

2010 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 

Initiatives Resp. Pers Timing 

Editions published 0 1 2 2 3 Newsletter for stakeholders Librarian / media officer 

March, July, 

November 

Resource 

Estimates Per 

initiative 

Not/Funded 

5000 Not funded 

Workshops 0 0 0 1 1 Stakeholder workshops Oellermann July 25000 Not funded 

Open days 0 0 0 1 1 Open days @ Centre van Vuuren July 10000 Not funded 

% Staff studying 30 40 40 50 50 Staff to continue with studies All staff Jan - Dec --- 

Training courses 

attended 

Mentorship 

relationships 

Number of new 

projects 

% Successful 

projects 

0 1 1 2 2 Staff to attend training courses All staff Jan - Dec 10000 Not funded 

0 0 1 1 2 Arrange staff mentorship programme All staff Jan - Dec 2500 Not funded 

0 1 2 3 4 

0 0 1 1 1 

Apply for additional researcher Oellermann Feb --- 

Attract stakeholder projects 

Attract visiting scientists 

Oellermann /Shuuluka 

/Mubiana /Kooitjie 



Jan - Dec 4000 Not funded 


Attract postgraduate projects Oellermann /Shuuluka Jan - Dec 4000 Not funded 

Commission study on community 

projects 

Publications 1 0 1 1 2 Publish in highly rated journals 

website reports 0 1 2 3 4 

Editions published 0 1 2 2 3 

Mubiana Jan - Dec 50000 Not funded 

Community workshop Mubiana April 25000 Not funded 

Use website to report project 

activities 

Use newsletter to make research 

accessable 





Librarian /media officer 



March, July, 

November 

Submissions 0 1 1 1 1 Apply for funds to refurbish facilities van Vuuren Feb --- 

Submissions 0 2 2 2 2 Apply for additional maintanence staff Oellermann Feb --- 

New partnerships 1 0 1 1 2 

Submissions 0 1 1 1 1 

5000 Not funded 

Visit potential partners Oellermann /Shuuluka Jan - Dec 40000 Not funded 

Invite potential partners to Centre 




Advertise for partnerships Librarian/media officer Jan - Dec 5000 Not funded 

Join large research programmes 

Apply for upgrading of conference 

facilities 

Consultancies 1 0 1 2 2 Tender for consultancies 




van Vuuren Feb --- 



Jan - Dec --- 

Visitors per year 20 10 20 30 40 Offer accommodation at hostel Hill Jan - Dec --- 

4

Identical 

Contributing 

New 

N/A 

Table 3: Cascading Matrix for SANUMARC 

University of Namibia Strategic Objectives 

SANUMARC Strategic Objectives 

1. Improve relevance of programs X 

2. Improve quality of programs 

Improve relevance of programs 

through stakeholder interaction 

3. Improve student and staff welfare X Improve the capacity of staff 

4. Increase equitable access for students and 

staff 

5. Improve quality of teaching and learning 

6. Increase research output X Increase number of research projects 

7. Enhance community engagement X 

8. Improve registration process 

Increase number of successful 

community outreach projects 

9. Diversify dissemination of knowledge X Improve dissemination of knowledge 

10. Improve the delivery of quality extension 

services 

11. Strengthen international liaison and 

collaboration X Strengthen partnerships & linkages 

12. Optimize resource mobilization 

management 

13. Improve the corporate image 

14. Improve quality of library services 

15. Improve organizational culture 

16. Expand physical facilities internal 

17. Improve quality of operational services 

18. Improve efficiency and effectiveness of 

examination systems 

19. Improve effective and adequate 

maintenance of all physical facilities 

20. Strengthen records and archives 

management and administration 

21. Strengthen Human capital management 

22. Develop and implement best practice in 

knowledge creation 

23. Improve ICT infrastructure and usage 

24. Diversify and increase sources of revenue 

sources 

25. Improve financial management 

26. Promote corporate governance 

X 

X 

Maintain existing facilities & 

infrastructure 

Increases sources of revenue for 

Centre 

5

6. THE SANUMARC BOARD 

The Board, previously known as the Advisory Board, remain the same for most part of 2011 as it was 

in 2010 with only minor changes. Ms. K. Imalwa, the National Planning Commission (NPC) 

representative withdrawn from the Board due to other commitments of the NPC, and the quest for a 

replacement by the NPC did not materialize. Prof. Osmund Mwandemele, the Pro-Vice Chancellor 

for Academic Affairs and Research at the University of Namibia and SANUMARC’s founding 

Director, continued to Chair the Board in 2011. During the year, Mr. Jan Arnold, the MD, NamSov 

and the representative of the Confederation of Namibian Fishing Associations on the Board was 

unanimously appointed as the Deputy Chairperson of the Board. 

Table 4. The composition of the Board of SANUMARC for 2011 

Name 

Prof Lazarus Hangula 1 

Prof Osmund Mwandemele 

Ms. K. Imalwa 2 

Dr W. Jankowitz 

Ms Pandulani Elago 

Prof E.M.R. Kiremire 

Dr Martin Schneider 

Dr H. MuAshekele 

Ms Lorna Mbwale 

Mr Job Jansen 

Mr Alois Fledersbacher 

Mr Jan Arnold 

Mr S. Iipinge 

Mr A. Van Kent 

Ms L. Mupetami 

Ms G. Cramer 

1 Ex-officio 

2 

Withdrew from the Board 

Institution 

Vice-Chancellor, University of Namibia (UNAM) 

Chair / PVC: Academic Affairs and Research, UNAM 

Deputy Director of Regional and Sectoral Planning: NPC 

Polytechnic of Namibia 

Acting Director of Aquaculture, MFMR 

Dean, Faculty of Science 

Acting Dean, Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resources 

Director, Multidisciplinary Research Centre (MRC) 

Director, UNAM Foundation 

Bursar, UNAM 

Registrar, UNAM 

MD, NamSov, Confederation of Namibian Fishing Associations 

Acting Director, Research and Training, MAWF 

Director, Ministry of Education 

Deputy Director, Ministry of Environment and Tourism 

Mayor of Henties Bay Town 

6

Figure 2: Members of SANUMARC Board in 2011 

7. MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS DURING 2011 

The Centre’s Deputy Director, Dr. Shuuluka successfully completed her doctorate studies from the 

University of Town in June 2011. Her research examines the ecophysiology of the green seaweed 

Ulva (the ‘sea lettuce’) from an integrated aquaculture system and natural populations. The study 

encompasses a wide range of topics including commercial production and its optimization, effects of 

a variety of environmental conditions on photosynthesis and growth in the laboratory, factors 

controlling seasonal patterns of commercially important components (protein and amino acids, 

nutrients, carotenes, minerals, heavy metals), and disease. 

Ms. Hill, the Centre’s Office Administrator successfully completed Diploma Programme in Adult 

and Community Development from the University of Namibia in May. Mrs. Hill has already moved 

forward registering for a Bachelor’s degree in Adult Education and Community Development which 

she is expected to complete in 2014. 

Figure 3: Dr. Diina Shuuluka and Ms. Elizabeth Hill at their graduation ceremony at the University of Cape Town and 

University of Namibia respectively. 

7

In recognition of the valuable contributions of Namsov to the University of Namibia, the University 

top Management approved the naming of the recently constructed Researchers’ Residence as the 

Namsov Researchers’ Residence, the inauguration and naming ceremony of the residence was held 

on the September 16, 2011. 

Within the months of September and October, the German research vessel, RV Maria S Merian was 

used to carry out a Training and Capacity Building Cruise in Namibian waters. This was coordinated 

by SANUMARC and the Universities of Hamburg. The cruise was funded by the German Federal 

Ministry of Education and Research under the SPACES programme. The aim of this cruise was to 

contribute to a better understanding of the Benguela Current Ecosystem and thereby fostering the 

cooperation within the SPACES programme by helping in setting up partnership projects in research 

and development. This research-based capacity building brought together researchers and students 

from ten different African countries and Germany on board RV Maria S Merian. A second major 

goal was to educating undergraduate and graduate students in different marine disciplines by using 

an integrated Earth System Science approach (see Box 1 for a personal experience by a Third year 

University of Namibia Biology student). The cruise was separated into three legs of 10 days duration 

each. Each leg was focused on one discipline, 

Leg 1: September, 23 to October, 01: Physical Oceanography (Cruise leader: Prof. Martin Visbeck, 

IFM-GEOMAR Kiel). 

Leg 2: October, 02 11: Marine Biology and Biogeochemistry (Cruise leader Dr. Werner Ekau, ZMT 

Bremen). 

Leg 3: October, 12 to 21, Marine Geology (Cruise leader: Dr. Matthias Zabel, MARUM University 

of Bremen). 

Figure 4: RV Maria S Merian is the most recent and most modern addition to the German fleet of research vessels. With 

a length of 95 m and a beam of 19 m she has more than 150 m 2 in laboratory space and can host 22 scientists on cruises 

up to 40 days long. 

8

Figure 5: Leg 2 Cruise Participants group photograph 

Box 1: Cruise Report by Simon Nkumbwa, final year student, Department of Fisheries and 

Aquatic Sciences, University of Namibia 

MSM19/1a 

(22.09.2011 – 01.10.2011) 

This cruise was very educative, especially to future marine scientists in Namibia. It was my first 

time in life to observe and use equipments that we usually read and see in text books. I gained 

knowledge on how to use equipment such the CDT, ADCP, MOORING, PHYTOPLANKTON 

NET, SALINOMETER, GLIDER and the most amazing was using the software MATLAB to 

plot the graphs of salinity, oxygen, temperature and more 

It was very great moments because I learned a lot starting from the educational activities such as 

CDT transect analysis salinity from CDT raw data, watching the vessel crew deploying the 

mooring submerged in water for 5 days and the mini science project we students work on during 

the cruise. Apart from the student’s mini project that we did, Prof Martin Visbeck gave several 

lectures on oceans around the globe. There were great moments we shared together during the 

cruise; from my fellow students from German, South Africa, Tanzania, and Mozambique. Each 

and every one of us learned something weather its educational, religious, cultures and the 

institutional and countries that we represented. 

Lastly I would like to thank the German scientist who showed us the use of this equipment for 

collecting oceanographic data, especial the Chief Scientist Prof Martin Visbeck and his staff for 

the good work that they did form the beginning to the end of the Leg1. Big thanks go to Captain 

Matthias Günther, his officers and crew of RV MERIAN for their support during the cruise. 

8. FACILITIES AND INFRASTRUCTURE 

The much anticipated commencement of the development of infrastructure for the Department of 

Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences did not take place in 2011 as anticipated. However, progress was 

made in the design of the girls’ hostel and administration block for which tender documents were 

9

completed. The constructions of these facilities are expected to commence in 2012, after approval by 

the University’s Tender Board. 

The Centre added to its facilities a 6 × 6 m cold-room and a modern freeze-dryer with funds provided 

by the Government of Norway through the BSc Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences programme for 

SADC region. The cold-room is to be used in the archiving of the various precious Namibian marine 

resources for future generations. The Cold-room was acquired with a view of setting up a Regional 

Marine Museum at the Centre. 

9. RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITIES 

Marine Science Research 

Several research outputs from the German RV Maria S. Merian research cruise were achieved 

coupled with the cruise objectives of capacity building within the Region. Posters from some of the 

research activities during the cruise were presented at the 3rd Annual Science of the Benguela 

Current Commission (BCC) held in Swakopmund, 17 to 19 October. 

Outlines and summaries of selected reports are presented below: 

Title: Distribution of main ichthyoplankton in the Benguela Upwelling System 

Authors: Mokanya Erikka (University of Namibia); Nina Schickenberg (University of Bremen); 

Claas Steigüber (University of Bremen); Francisco Souza Dias (UPMC Paris) and Paula Pattrick 

(Nelson Mandela University) 

Introduction: The benguela current ecosystem is one of the world‘s major upwelling system. As 

is typical of the earstern-boundary upwelling system, it is characterized by high productivity and 

a greatly dynamic nature. The benguela ecosystem supports large population of living marine 

resources that are of substantial economic importance to the region, such as fisheries. 

Knowledge about the distribution of fish larvae, is essential to understand future stock 

recruitment, because this stage of live is the most valnurable in the whole live history of fish. 

That’s why, we took the chance to participate in the teaching cruise MSM 19 -1b in the 

framework of the GENUS project, to survey the distribution of fish larvae, identify hotspots and 

dominating species and compare these with major oceanographic parameters. 

Methods: Fish larvae were caught with a multinet (5 nets, 500 µm mesh size) from certain 

standardized depths. Caught larvae were characterized with a dissecting microscope, using state 

to the art determination literature. These findings were further compared with oceanographic 

data from a CTD, which was run at each station. 

Results: Two main species Suffogobius birbatus and Lampanyctodes hectoris dominating the 

ichthyoplankton were observed. The total abundance of fish larvae increased with oxygen 

concentration. Lampanyctodes hectoris prefers warm water and suffogobius birbatus occurs in 

colder waters close to the shore, but in areas that are not affected by oxygen depleted upwelled 

waters. Their hotspots were found around moderate temperature regions and relatively high 

oxygen areas hence their abundance. 

10

Figure 6: The distribution of the main ichthyoplankton in the upper surface water of Namibia central marine 

environment 

Conclusion: Based on the recorded data major larval hot spots occured around oxygen supplied 

regions and moderate temperatures. This is important for the fisheries as this provide 

recruitment. The study provides a stepping stone to ensure and enable sustainable fisheries 

management of ocean resources thus ensuring food safety. 

Title: Frequency of occurrence of seabirds, marine mammals and jellyfish in Central Namibian 

waters 

Authors: Gabriel Chiloia (University of Namibia), Katharina Schwinghammer (Bremen University). 

Introduction: The Namibian coastal waters contain a great abundance of predators such 

as marine mammals, seabirds and also jellyfish. Marine mammals are cetaceans and fur seals 

which are highly adapted to the marine environment. The seal species which occurs in Namibia 

is the Cape Fur Seal (Arctocephallus pusillus) which belongs to the eared seals. The most 

common dolphins are the Dusky Dolphin (Lagenorhynchus obscurus) and the Heaviside 

Dolphin (Cephalorhynchus heavisidii). Seabirds are commonly seen over the open ocean 

thousands of kilometers from land, but all birds must come ashore to raise their young. Jellyfish 

is the common name for any of the invertebrate animals making up two classes of the cnidarians. 

The term jellyfish applies more specifically to the free-swimming, gelatinous organism called 

the medusa. Jellyfish have little nutritional value and therefore they are usually not fed upon. 

Method: Seabirds and marine mammals were counted within each 10 minute interval while the 

vessel was moving. Jellyfish abundance of the two predominant species (Chrysaora and 

Aequorea) was recorded within a distance of 30 meters from the vessel while cruising. 

Results: Greatest abundances of jellyfish were observed around 21°S. Highest occurrence of 

Chrysaora Fig.1, right) was found around 120 nm offshore, whereas Aequorea (Fig. 1, left) 

occurred over the shelf area closer to the coast. Cetaceans were both observed on the shelf and 

far offshore. We saw Dusky Dolphins, Pilot Whales and Fin whales (Fig. 2). High abundances of 

seals were found close to the coast where there are large seal colonies i.e. at Cape Cross (22°S, 

14°E) (Fig. 3). Peak abundance of seabirds was off Henties Bay around 45 nm from the shore. 

11

Figure 7: Distribution of Aequorea (left) and Chrysaora (right) along the central Namibian coast 

Figure 8: Distribution of Cetacea along Central Namibian coast. Yellow: Dusky Dolphins, Blue: Pilot whales, Red: 

Fin whales. 

Figure 9: Distribution of Fur Seals and seabirds along Central Namibian coast 

Conclusion 

The two species of jellyfish that were observed did not necessarily occur at the same places. We 

also found that seabirds and seals occurred together in many places. This might be linked to the 

distribution of their food, which is fish. 

Title: Nutrient cycle and the relevance of the Benguela Upwelling System for the biological pump 

Authors: Jeorgina Chiquequela (UNIversity of Namibia); Thulwaneng Mashifane (University of 

Cape Town) and Juvinaries Nyandoto (University of Namibia) 

12

Introduction 

The Benguela is one of the four major upwelling ecosystems in the world and extends from 

South Angola, Namibia and South Africa. During upwelling water enriched with nutrients 

including Silicate, Phosphate and Nitrate reach the biologically productive surface of the ocean 

enhancing phytoplankton production. While the upwelling promotes primary production, the 

deeper waters with limited Oxygen exchange create hypoxic areas called oxygen minimum zones 

on the continental shelf. Phytoplankton blooms resulting from upwelling events provide the 

biological basis for transporting fixed carbon into the deep ocean (biological pump). This is 

achieved by carbon fixation (photosynthesis) and the processes of direct sedimentation of cells 

into the deep ocean as particulate organic carbon (POC). 

During the Maria S. Merian Cruise (Leg II/1b) nutrient cycle and the relevance of the Benguela 

Upwelling System for the biological pump was studied. 

Results 

Remineralisation of Phosphates takes place in the Oxygen minum zone ~ 350 m, during 

decomposition of phytoplankton cells (Figure 2 - 6). The decomposition cells transport carbon 

from the sea surface and bring it deep to the ocean floor through the biological pump. 

Figure 10: Dissolved oxygen and phosphate concentrations with depth for the stations investigated 

Figure 11: Dissolved oxygen and phosphate concentrations with the oxygen minimum zone (~ 350 m) in the 

Benguela upwelling system 

Conclusion 

Oxygen and phosphate are inversely proportional with depth. Poorly Dissolved Oxygen (DO) 

from the sea bottom utilize maximum oxygen in the oxygen minimum zone (~350–500 m), 

simultaneously releasing phosphate during decomposition of cells until sea floor. 

13

Title: CO 2 emission from the Benquela Upwelling System. 

Authors: Pillay, K. (Rhodes University), Schickenberg N. (University of Bremen), Steigüber, C. 

(University of Bremen), Mokanya, E. (University of Namibia and Chiquequela, J. (Augustinho Neto 

University) 

Introduction 

It has become increasingly important to understand the ocean carbon cycle as it is a major 

contributor in controlling atmospheric CO 2 (a greenhouse gas contributing to climate change). A 

characteristic of upwelling areas is that cold, nutrient-rich and CO 2 rich waters are brought to the 

surface. The pCO 2 of the shelf waters of the Northern Benguela has not been measured. This 

study was a first in understanding the carbon cycling within the Northern Benguela. Continuous 

underway pCO 2 , sea surface temperature (SST), bathymetry measurements are presented. 

Results 

Preliminary analysis shows pCO 2 variability between inshore and offshore waters. Inshore 

measurements indicate cells of high pCO 2 concentration which can be representative of 

upwelling cells. This elevated pCO 2 appears to be correlated to low SST and shows a possible 

link to coastal bathymetry. 

Conclusion 

The identified upwelling cells (high pCO 2 ) show the expected trend of low SST. These factors 

appear to be klinked to coastal bathymetry. The coastal bottom topography could be a 

contributing factor to the permanent upwelling in the Northern Benguela. This links needs to be 

further investigated. 

Mariculture Research 

Silver Kob, Argyrosomus inodorus, juvenile feeding trials 

This experiment was aimed at investigating the optimum feeding rate of the Silver Kob under 

laboratory conditions. The juvenile system was stocked with the cohort of the 2009 spawned fish 

which was divided into eight experimental tanks with 10 fish per tank. Each tank was fed a fixed 

amount of scientifically formulated feed at 2, 4, 8 and 10% fish body mass per day for a period of 6 

months. Each feeding rate had a replicate. The experimental feed was obtained from Marifeed® 

company, based on a diet developed by Rhodes University specifically for Kob. 

All the fish were weighed & measured every two weeks, amount of feed over the following 2 weeks 

were adjusted accordingly. Growth (mass & length), condition factor and food conversion ratio 

(FCR) were calculated. At the end of the feeding trial, growth trend was suggesting a positive 

growth projected by fish fed 8% body weight, with the specific growth rate (SGR) of 2.3, 2.2, 4.4 

and 1.2 g/day obtained for fish fed 2, 4, 8 and 10% body weight per day, respectively. 

14

Figure 12: Mean growth and specific growth rate of theSilver kob (A. inodorus) juvenile subjected to different feeding 

rates (%BW) for 6 months under laboratory conditions. 

Seaweed Research 

During 2011, three notable research activities in seaweed are worth reporting. 

Glycerol-production system from halophytes occurring naturally in salt pans 

In 2010, halophytic microalgae strains were collected from a salt pan along the Namibian coast and 

samples from SANUMARC and taken to the United Kingdom for strain analysis and glycerol 

production. This was collaboration with the University of Greenwich and the Marine Biological 

Association. PCR sequencing of genes and phylogenetic analyses of the strains and glycerol 

production were performed. 

Figure 13: Dunaliella and Asteromonas strains isolated were found to be genetically distinct from all other known 

Dunaliella strains, they showed the potential of commercial production of glycerol. 

Analysis of the ITS region showed T35, T36 and T37 were genetically distinct from other Dunaliella 

species, therefore forming a unique group. Sizing the PCR products of the 18S rRNA gene for T35, 

T36 and T37 indicated no introns were present for these three strains. The research also revealed that 

the Namibia strains of Dunaliella may be better adapted for growth at high temperatures (30 O C) than 

low. Doubling times and specific growth rate µ provide the basis for modelling production systems 

to produce industrial quantities of glycerol in Namibia. 

15

Growth rates of Gracilariopsis funicularis (Gracilariaceae, Rhodophyta) in laboratory culture 

under varying salinities 

During the end of the year, Mr. Stehanus Hamuntenya,a final student from the Department of 

Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences was at the Centre where he carried out a research titled: Growth rates 

of Gracilariopsis funicularis (Gracilariaceae, Rhodophyta) in laboratory culture under varying 

salinities, under the supervision of Dr. Shuuluka and Mr. Tjipute. 

Measurements of fresh weight of Gracilariopsis funicularis indicated that fresh weights at salinity 

level of 40ppt was increasing rapidly between day 3 to day 18 as compared to salinities of 25 ppt 

and 35 ppt. However from day 18, the fresh weights increased rapidly at salinity of 25 ppt as 

compared to salinity of 35 and 40 ppt. During day 21 and day 24, plants growing in salinity of 35 ppt 

seem to decrease in weight. The specific growth rate per day (%/day) showed that the plants grew 

well in all salinities tested. All salinities provided a faster growth rate until day 12 and the growth 

started to decrease thereafter. It worth noting that salinity of 35 ppt had the lowest growth rate as 

from day 21 until the end of the experimental period, with growth rate ranging from 1.58 to 1.26 

%/day. However, statistical analysis indicated that there was no significant difference in the growth 

rate of Gracilariopsis funicularis grown at the various salinities (p > 0.05). From observations during 

the experimental period, after day 18, Ulva started to appear in the flasks that were incubated at 25 

and 35 ppt, however, appearance of Ulva at 40 ppt flask was not observed. 

Commercial cultivation and processing of seaweeds should be a national priority and taken up as a 

mission mode project. Setting up agar extraction companies in Namibia can provide the much needed 

employment among the youths, thereby leading to reduction in unemployment. This study provided 

benchmark information for future study on the eco-physiology of the red seaweed species, 

Gracilariopsis funicularis in Namibia. 

16

Fresh weights(g) 

SGR (% d-1) 

a 

Figure 14: (a) Well cleaned thalli of Gracilariopsis funicularis ready for incubation 

(b) Gracilariopsis funicularis in in Erlenmeyer flasks containing different salinities 

b 

8 25ppt 35ppt 40ppt 

6 

25ppt 35ppt 40ppt 

6 

4 

4 

2 

2 

0 

0 10 20 30 

Days 

0 

0 10 20 30 

Days 

Figure 15: Mean fresh weight and specific growth rate (SGR) of Gracilariopsis funicularis incubated under laboratory 

conditions for 30 days. 

Proximate analysis of the Namibian Kelp (Laminaria pallida) 

During November,2011, Dr Shuuluka spent few days at the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and 

Forestry (MAWF), Nutritional Laboratory in Windhoek carrying out proximate analysis of Namibian 

Kelp (Laminaria pallida) samples collected during low tide from Solitude Point (22°09'40S, 

14°17'14E) along Henties Bay shore. 

It is important to determine the nutritional content of the kelp as it will be used as a chicken feed 

supplement in a research project that will be conducted during the second quarter of 2012. Table 5 

below shows the proximate values for the dried powdered kelp. The protein value is yet to be 

determined, this will be done in 2012. 

17

Figure 16: Collection of beach-cast Laminaria pallida 

Table 5: Proximate composition of dried powdered kelp 

Component 

Dry weight 

(%) 

Moisture 14.36 ± 0.13 

Sodium (Na) 2.90 ± 0.03 

Calcium (Ca) 1.62 ± 0.01 

Phosphorus (P) 0.38 ± 0.01 

Crude fiber (CF) 7.01 ± 0.04 

Fat 0.65 ± 0.07 

Ash 50.66 ± 0.90 

Mushroom Research 

The resignation of Mr. Mubiana in mid June 2011 halted the research activities in mushroom, until 

the appointment of Ms. Hausiku during the third quarter of the year. 

Since Ms. Hausiku’s appointment, the focus of the Centre’s mushroom activities has been that of 

recuperation of mushroom R & D and production of quality spawn for future research as well as 

supplying to the Community. Towards the end of 2011, quality spawns were eventually developed 

and are being used to inoculate wheat straws. The whole restoration process has been successful and 

the first fruiting bodies were harvested on 30 January 2012. 

18

Figure 17: Mushroom R & D and production at SANUMARC 

Coastal agriculture & plant biodiversity research 

For most part of 2011, the Centre had no researcher in coastal agriculture and plant biodiversity 

research, until the appointment of Mr. Mowa during the last quarter on the year. Since his 

appointment, the focus has been on the recuperation of the greenhouse and the shade-net garden, 

which is still on-going. 

As part of the on-going Southern African Norway Tertiary Education Development (SANTED) 

project, Mrs. Devota Kavishe spent considerable time at the Centre collecting desert plants to enrich 

the Namibian database collection.. In June and November 2011, field trips were organized to collect 

plant specimens from Kuiseb valley, Henties Bay lichen field, OMDEL, Uis town and its environs, 

Namib rock and Brandberg areas. Several plant specimens were collected and 63 specimens were 

processed for the herbarium. These specimens belong to 23 plant families. Fifty four (54) were 

herbaceous and 9 shrubby. SANUMARC Herbarium Checklist is presented in Table 6. 

The task of collecting plants for any herbarium is tedious and delicate. Some of the specimens 

collected did not dry properly or loose important parts such as flowers and fruits and thus discarded 

as they are not fit for display. The rainy season in 2011 was extended and the Kuiseb River was still 

flowing when the exercise was taking place. The Omaruru river bed was still damp. Rare wetland 

species like Nesaea luedritzii come out during periods of extended river dampness. Of the specimens 

added to the herbarium in 2011, 6 were collected from Brandberg, 10 from Kuiseb valley, 7 from 

Lichen field, 11 from Namib rock, 9 from Omaruru river-bed and delta (OMDEL), and 20 from Uis 

town and its environs. 

Table 6: SANUMARC Herbarium Species Checklist (2011) 

SPECIES NAME FAMILY LOCATION 

Acrotome fleckii (Gurke) Launert Lamiaceae Namib rock 

Acrotome flekii (Gurke) Launert Lamiaceae Uis 

Aizoanthemum galenioides (Fenzle ex Sond.) Friedrich Aizoaceae Namib rock 

Aizoanthemum rehmanii (Schinz) H.E.K. Hartmann Aizoaceae OMDEL 

19


Amaranthus cf. dinteri Schinz subsp. dinteri Amaranthaceae Kuiseb 

Anticharis inflata Marloth & Engl. Scrophulariaceae Uis 

Aristida parvula (Nees) De Winter Poaceae OMDEL 

Brachiaria glomerata (Hack. ) A. Camus Poaceae OMDEL 

Brachiaria glomerata (Hack.) A. Camus Poaceae Lichen field 

Calostephane marlothiana O. Hoffm Asteraceae OMDEL 

Chascanum garipense E Mey Verbenaceae Kuiseb 

Chenopodium murale L. Pteridaceae Kuiseb 

Chloris virgata SW Poaceae Kuiseb 

Citrullus rehmii De Winter Cucurbitaceae Uis 

Crotalaria damarensis Engl Fabaceae Uis 

Cucumis sagittatus Peyr. Cucurbitaceae Uis 

Cynodon dactylon (L.) pers Poaceae Uis 

Dactyliandra welwitschii Hook.F Cucurbitaceae Uis 

Dauresia alliariifolia (O. Hoffm.) B. Nord & Palser Cucurbitaceae Namib rock 

Dicoma tomentosa Cass Asteraceae Namib rock 

Dyerophtum africanum (Lam.) Kuntze Plumbaginaceae Namib rock 

Eragrostis annulata Rendle ex Scott-Elliot Poaceae Namib rock 

Eragrostis glandulosipedata de Winter Poaceae Uis 

Fingerhuthia africana Lehm Poaceae Uis 

Galenia papulosa (Eckl.) & zeyh.) Sond Aizoaceae Kuiseb 

Gazania jurineifolia D.C. subsp scabra (D.C.) Roessler Asteraceae Kuiseb 

Hermannia solaniflora (K. Schum) Sterculiaceae OMDEL 

Hermbstaedtia linearis Schinz Amaranthaceae Brandberg 

Hirpicium gazanioides (Harv.) Roesslar Asteraceae Uis 

Hypertelis caespitosa Friedrich Molluginaceae Lichen field 

Indigofera auricoma E. Mey Fabaceae Uis 

Jamesbrittenia tenella (Hien.) Hilliard Scrophulariaceae Namib rock 

Lessertia pauciflora Harv. var pauciflora Fabaceae Uis 

Limeum-argute-carinatum Warwa ex Warwa & Molluginaceae Uis 

Peyr.var argute-carinatum 

Lotononis platycarpa (Viv) Pic-Serm Hyacinthaceae Namib rock 

Melinis repens (Wild.) Zizka sub sp grandiflora Poaceae Brandberg 

20


(Hochst) zizka 

Merremia guerichii A. Meeuse Convolvulaceae OMDEL 

Monandrus squarrosus (L.) Vorster sub sp squarrosus Cyperaceae Kuiseb 

Monechma genistifolium(Engl.) C.B Clarke Acanthaceae Namib rock 

Monsonia umbellata Harv Geraniaceae Uis 

Nelsia quadrangula (Engl. ) Schinz Amaranthaceae Brandberg 

Nesaea Luedritzii ex Schinz var luedritzii Lythraceae OMDEL 

Pavonia rehmanii Malvaceae Uis 

Pennisetum foermerianum Leeke Poaceae Namib rock 

Phyllanthus petandrus Schumach Euphorbiaceae Brandberg 

Pogonarthria fleckii (Hack.) Hack Poaceae Kuiseb 

Ptycholobium biflorum (E. Mey.) Fabaceae Uis 

Schmidtia kalahariensis Stent Poaceae Uis 

Senecio engleranus O. Hoffm Asteraceae Lichen field 

Senecio engleranus O. Hoffm Asteraceae Lichen field 

Stipagrostis ciliata (Desf.) De Winter var capensis (Trin Poaceae 

Lichen field 

& Rupr.) De Winter 

Stipagrostis hirtigluma (Trin & Rupr.) De Winter Poaceae 

OMDEL 

subsp.pearsonii(Henrard) De Winter 

Stipagrostis subacaulis (Nees) De Winter Poaceae Uis road 

Stipagrostis uniplumis (Licht) var intermedia 

Poaceae 

Uis 

(Schweick.) De winter 

Tetragonia decumbens Mill Aizoaceae Lichen field 

Trianthema parvifolia E. Mey ex Sond Aizoaceae Lichen field 

Tribulocarpus dimorphanthus (Pax) S. Moore Aizoaceae Brandberg 

Trichodesma africanum (L.) Lehm Boraginaceae Uis 

Tricholaena monachne (Trin.) Stapf & C. E. Hubb Poaceae Namib rock 

Tripteris microcarpa Harv subsp. microcarpa Asteraceae Kuiseb 

Tripteris spp Asteraceae Brandberg 

Triraphis pumilio R. Br. Poaceae OMDEL 

Vahlia capensis (L.f.) Thunb Vahliaceae Kuiseb 

21

10 OTHER ACTIVITIES 

United Nations University Institute for Natural Resources in Africa 25th 

Anniversary 

The United Nations University Institute for Natural Resources in Africa (UNU-INRA) of which 

SANUMARC is an affiliated operating institute held an International Conference in Accra, Ghana 

from 05 – 07 December to mark its 25th anniversary. The three-day international conference was 

attended by representatives from government Ministries, Departments and Agencies in Ghana; the 

diplomatic community, UNU staff worldwide, the donor community, as well as academicians from 

various universities across the world. Prof. Osterwalder, the Rector of the United Nations University, 

congratulated UNU-INRA for organizing a successful conference and admonished participants to 

actively think of how to support the Institute and its operating units in different parts of Africa and its 

twinning partner in Tokyo. SANUMARC participated actively in this event; Professor Omoregie 

presented a paper on Mushroom research and activities in Namibia. 

The conference, among other things, created the platform for dialogue amongst academicians and 

policy makers on charting a new course for future research, training and capacity development in 

Africa. It was also to mobilize African perspectives on the development of natural resources for the 

Rio +20 conference on sustainable development in 2012. 

(a) 

Figure 18: SANUMARC participation at the 25th Anniversary of UNU-INRA celebrations in Accra, Ghana: Group 

photography of all participants (a) and Ms. Martha Hausiku in front of SANUMARC poster on Mushroom research and 

community activities in Namibia. 

2011 also witnessed the twining of UNU-INRA and United Nations University Institute for 

Sustainability and Peace (UNU-ISP). This arrangement will further enhance the visibility of 

SANUMARC within the United Nations University institutions worldwide. 

SANUMARC Trust 

The Namsov Community Trust endowed a NAD 1 million Trust, known as The SANUMARC Trust 

for the Sam Nujoma Marine and Coastal Resources Research Centre. One of the objectives of this 

Trust is to fund research activities in the Centre that falls under the Research Mandate of 

SANUMARC and beneficial to the Namibian Nation. 

(b) 

22

The Centre was given approval to institute a Namsov Trust Postgraduate Scholarship Scheme by the 

Resource Mobilization and Liaison Committee (RMLC) and the recommendation of the RMLC was 

approved by SANUMARC Board. The Namsov Trust Postgraduate Scholarship Scheme is aimed at 

sponsoring young Namibians and Southern Africans for a Postgraduate degree in which the research 

activities will be based in SANUMARC, such research will be in any of the research mandates of the 

Centre. 

During the last week of September and first week of October, 2011, the Centre placed an advert in 

local newspapers and also using the SARNISSA and SANCOR online network platform to reach out 

to the SADC Region. A total of 18 applications were received and based on research committee 

members review and assessment of the research proposals received, 3 successful applicants were 

chosen to be awarded the Scholarship. The successful applicants are Mr. Johannes A. Iitembu (PhD 

Student), Ms. Johanna K. Dijerenge and Mr. Emmanuel Vellemu (both MSc students). Both Mr. 

Iitembu and Ms. Dijerenge are staff of the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources (MFMR). 

SANUMARC is very grateful to the Namsov Community Trust for the endowment funds which will 

provide significant training and development opportunities for young scientists to assist them in 

developing their careers as marine and coastal resources researchers. 

11 PUBLICATIONS: TECHNICAL REPORTS, SCIENTIFIC 

PRESENTATIONS AT CONFERENCES AND POSTERS 

Technical Reports 

1. Peel, Richard Anthony (2011). Age, growth and maturity of three cichlid species from the 

Kavango and Caprivi Regions, Namibia. M.Sc. Thesis submitted in fulfilment of the 

requirements for the degree of Master of Science of the University of Namibia. 177 pp. 

Supervisors: Dr OLF Weyl and Professor E Omoregie. 

2. Omoregie, E., Weyl, O. L. F. and Peel, R. A. (2011). Ecology and Management of the 

Caprivi Floodplain Fisheries. Progress Report on Namibia-South Africa joint Research 

Programme, submitted to the Directorate of Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, 

Namibia. 

3. Weyl, O. L. F., Omoregie, E. and Peel, R. A. (2011). Towards a holistic management strategy 

for the fisheries of the Zambezi River and Eastern Caprivi Floodplains. Progress Report 

submitted to Namibia Nature Foundation (NNF). 

Scientific Presentations at Conferences 

1. Omoregie, E. and Hausiku, M. (2011). Mushroom Research and Community Activities: 

UNU-INRA Supported Project: University of Namibia. Paper presented at the International 

Conference on Sustainable Development of Natural Resources organised by the United 

23

Nations University Institute for Natural Resources in Africa. Accra, Ghana, December 5 - 8, 

2011. 

2. Peel R, Tweddle D, Weyl OLF, Omoregie E (2011). Fish stock development in the recently 

filled lake Liambezi, Caprivi, Namibia. South African Society of Aquatic Science. Ithala 

Game Reserve, , Kwa Zulu Natal, South Africa, 26-30 June 2011. 

Scientific Posters 

1. Abubakar, A. L., Swamy, R. A.R., Orchard, J., Highfield, A., Schroeder, D., Oellermann, L. and 

Harvey, P. J. (2011). Glycerol Production by Novel Strains of Dunaliella and Asteromonas 

isolated from Namibian marine water. 

2. Erikka, M., Schickenberg, N., Steigüber, C., Dias, F. S., and Pattrick, P. (2011). Distribution of 

main ichthyoplankton in the Benguela Upwelling System. Poster presented at the 3rd Annual 

Science of the Benguela Current Commission (BCC), Swakopmund, 17 to 19 October, 2011. 

3. Chiloia, G. and Schwinghammer, K. (2011). Frequency of occurrence of seabirds, marine 

mammals and jellyfish in central Namibian waters. Poster presented at the 3rd Annual Science of 

the Benguela Current Commission (BCC), Swakopmund, 17 to 19 October, 2011. 

4. Chiquequela, J., Mashifane, T. and Nyandoto, J. (2011). Nutrient cycle and the relevance of the 

Benguela Upwelling System for the biological pump. Poster presented at the 3rd Annual Science 

of the Benguela Current Commission (BCC), Swakopmund, 17 to 19 October, 2011. 

5. Indileni, K. and Dias, F. S. (2011). An assessment of spatial and vertical trends in mesozooplankton 

biovolume in the Upwelling System off Namibia. Poster presented at the 3rd Annual 

Science of the Benguela Current Commission (BCC), Swakopmund, 17 to 19 October, 2011. 

6. Pattrick, P. and Saima, K. (2011). Distribution of micro-zooplankton in the Northern Benguela 

Upwelling Region of the Namibian coast. Poster presented at the 3rd Annual Science of the 

Benguela Current Commission (BCC), Swakopmund, 17 to 19 October, 2011. 

7. Pillay, K., Schickenberg, N., Steigüber, C., Mokanya, E. and Chiquequela, J. (2011). CO 2 

emission from the Benquela Upwelling System. Poster presented at the 3rd Annual Science of the 

Benguela Current Commission (BCC), Swakopmund, 17 to 19 October, 2011. 

12 TRAINING SUPPORT 

The Centre has provided accommodation, logistical and/or training support for the following students 

during 2011: 

 

Ms Lydia Tjilumbu and Ms. Taimi Kapalanga from Gobabeb Training & Research Centre 

spent one full month at the Centre carrying out their research project using the Centre’s facilities 

on the assessment of water infiltration and retention capacity natural and stockpiled topsoil at 

Langerheinch mine, Central Namib Desert. 

24

Mrs Devota Kavishe, a PhD student with the Faculty of Agriculture & Natural Resources, 

University of Namibia, is carrying out research on a species of red macro-algae called Porphyra 

spp. She uses the Centre as her base when carrying out research at the Coast, and plans to set up 

experimental systems at SANUMARC in 2011. 

Lovisah Hailaula, Takafara Gozo, Lusia Negonga and Nancy Kandombolo students from the 

University of Namibia Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences spent six weeks each at the 

Centre on Field Attachment where they received practical training in various aspects of 

Mariculture and Marine Science. 

As in previous years, the Centre continued to play host to the Department of Fisheries and 

Aquatic Sciences as several of the Department’s practical sessions were held using the Centre’s 

laboratory facilities. 

13 COMMUNITY OUTREACH 

Science and Technology Promotion 

The goal of this community outreach programme is to stimulate interest in science and technology in 

young Namibians. 

In 2011, a number of schools and members of the public visited the centre. 

Figure 19: Mr. Kaspar Shimooshili and Mr. Marthinus Kooitjie in a group photograph with learners from Omaruru 

Primary School. 

25

Figure 20: Mr. van Vuuren giving a talk on organic farming to members of the Namibia Women Association of the 

Dutch Reformed Church during a recent meeting at the Centre. 

National Youth Service support: The Municipality of Henties Bay granted the National Youth 

Service some land along the Omururu River, to the east of SANUMARC, to set up an 

agricultural training station. The Centre continued to give advice to the trainees and they also 

assisted the mushroom researcher with various activities, thereby receiving ad hoc training. 

Tulongeni Garden Project: SANUMARC continued to support the Tulongeni Garden and 

Mushroom projects in Henties Bay. Besides helping with the preparation of mushroom spawning 

and the supply of various materials to the Tulongeni Mushroom Project in previous years, the 

SANUMARC research team also helped in land tilling and sowing of seeds into the prepared 

soil at the garden project. 

Figure 21: Manual labour at the Tulongeni Garden 

26

14 NOTABLE VISITORS TO THE CENTRE 

The Founding President, Dr Sam Nujoma in the company of Prof. Keto Mushigeni visited in 

December 23, 2011. 

Figure 22: The Founding President, Dr Sam Nujoma and Prof. Keto Mushigeni in a group photograph with staff and 

student during the December visit. 

The Honourable Mr Bernard Esau, Minister of Fisheries and Marine Resources, in the company of 

the Permanent Secretary, Ms U. Hiveluah were at the Centre during the Workshop on Financing 

Aquaculture in Namibia, held in July. 

Andrea Heyn, the Deputy Head of System Earth from the German Ministry of Education and 

Research (BMBF) and Susanne Korich, System Earth, Shipping and Marine Engineering, 

Germany visited the Centre in connection with the SPACES Programme planning phase. In this 

delegation were Prof. Venu Ittekot, Dr. Werner Ekau, Dr. Tim Rexin and Prof Kay- 

Christain Emeis 

Prof Kurt Hanselmann, a retired academic from the University of Zurich, spent two weeks at 

the Centre with third year students from UNAM’s Department of Fisheries & Aquatic Sciences. 

He was teaching in the Department as part of the SCOR programme. The Centre received a 

donation of used laboratory equipment for oceanography research from Prof. Hanselmann after 

this stay at the Centre, with a total value of EUR 3,447.00. 

Dr. Marie-Marguerite Bourbigot, the Charge de Mission of Veolia Environment in France and 

Prof. Philippe Potin, the Research Director CNRS, Roscoff Biological Station (Marine Plants 

and Biomolecules, Algae defenses) visited the Centre in October. During the visit Veolia 

Environment together with the Centre’s research team in Seaweed research came up with a 

concept note on a collaborative research in Seaweed hatchery project on Laminaria 

pallidavarshinzii with capacity building and SME components. 

The National Council for Higher Education (NCHE) Secretariat visited the Centre to present the 

Quality Assurance System for Higher Education in Namibia. 

27

Prof. Danie Brink of the University of Stellenbosch held a technical session with Centre staff in 

relation to the development of the Aquaculture Master-plan 

15 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS 

On behalf of the staff of the Sam Nujoma Marine and Coastal Resources Research Centre, the 

Director wishes to thank all those individuals and institutions who contributed towards the continued 

growth and development of the Centre during 2011. In particular, we thank the Vice-Chancellor Prof. 

Lazarus Hangula, and the Pro-Vice Chancellor: Academic Affairs and Research, Prof. Osmund 

Mwandemele, for their continuous support and guidance. We also thank the members of the 

SANUMARC Board for taking time from their busy schedule to attend meetings, which serve as a 

platform to provide guidance and advice to the Centre. In particular, we would like to thank Mr Jan 

Arnold, for championing the SANUMARC Endowment Fund and Mrs. Lorna Mbwale for 

championing the vision of the Resource Mobilization and Liaison Committee. 

28

ANNUAL REPORT 2011 - University of Namibia

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