A trader sells seafood during the annual crayfish festival held in the southern town of Luderitz, Namibia, May 3, 2024. (Photo by Ndalimpinga Iita/Xinhua)
LUDERITZ, Namibia, May 3 (Xinhua) -- Namibian Vice President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah said on Friday that the annual crayfish festival held in the southern coastal town of Luderitz provides an investment opportunity and boosts tourism, which in turn contributes significantly to the country's economic growth.
During the official opening ceremony on Friday, she emphasized the festival's positive impact on the local community, adding that it has ignited an entrepreneurial spirit in the town.
"The inclusion of small and medium enterprises and financial services in the festival demonstrates its impact on social and economic progress. The festival also takes place against the backdrop of oil discoveries and emerging green industries that will drive economic development nationwide," she said.
Fishing is an important economic activity for Luderitz, which is poised to become the new epicenter of the oil, gas, and green hydrogen industries.
The festival, which started in 2008, has become a popular platform to showcase Luderitz's rich cultural heritage and traditions. It offers a variety of activities, including seafood exhibitions, traditional cuisine, entertainment, fashion, and corporate events.
This year's festival, themed "Riding the waves toward a sustainable future," runs from April 29 to May 5. ■
A trader sells seafood during the annual crayfish festival held in the southern town of Luderitz, Namibia, May 3, 2024. (Photo by Ndalimpinga Iita/Xinhua)
