NovaNam renews ‘FISH’ certification

NovaNam has successfully renewed its FISH Standard for Crew certification.

This international accolade recognises safe, fair, and ethical labour practices on board its fishing vessels. NovaNam’s Namibian fleet, operating from the ports of Lüderitz and Walvis Bay, comprises two freezer trawlers and five wet fish trawlers, including the newly commissioned Lalandii 1, NovaNam One, and NovaNam Two. These vessels employ a combined crew of approximately 280, contributing to NovaNam’s total workforce of 2,300 employees.

In 2022, NovaNam became the first fishing company in the world to obtain this certification. It remains the only fishing company in Namibia to hold this global accreditation and is currently the only such certification in force across the African continent.

The FISH (Fairness, Integrity, Safety, and Health) Standard for Crew is based on four core principles and 28 criteria. These ensure the rigorous application of international conventions and labour legislation on board fishing vessels. NovaNam secured the renewal following an extensive independent audit, which assessed the fleet and the organisation against stringent global, regional, and local compliance standards. As part of the process, personal interviews were conducted with crew members to verify conditions first-hand.

“This recognition reflects our commitment to responsible governance and the well-being and safety of our employees. Providing the best possible working conditions is essential to ensuring responsible and sustainable operations,” said Nuno Cosme, Chief Sustainability & CSR Officer at the Nueva Pescanova Group. NovaNam is an affiliate of the Nueva Pescanova Group and packages the majority of its products under the globally recognised Pescanova seafood brand.

Edwin Kamatoto, country manager and Group CEO of NovaNam said the certification recognises NovaNam’s ongoing efforts to provide our crews with decent, safe, and internationally aligned working conditions, while contributing meaningfully to Namibia’s fishing industry and economy.

Mike Kraft, executive director of FISH Standard for Crew said programmes such as FISH serve as a credible, independent verification tool. "Organisations can use it to demonstrate their leadership, the high value they place on the safety and well-being of their workers, and the transparency of their operations.”

For over 35 years, NovaNam has been a cornerstone of Namibia’s fishing industry, employing approximately 2,300 people and contributing significantly to the country’s economic growth and social development.