Africa-Press – Namibia. The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform has warned members of the public against fishing and consuming fish from the Goreangab dam on the western fringes of Windhoek.
A statement issued on behalf of the City of Windhoek by the ministry’s executive director, Ndiyakupi Nghituwamata, on Thursday says there were reports of increased fishing activities at the Goreangab Dam by community members, with some individuals selling the fish to unsuspecting members of the public.
Goreangab Dam is a reservoir on the Arebbusch River and its tributary, the Gammams River, which both run across Windhoek. It provides recreation facilities for Windhoek residents, especially waterside braais and picnics.
“It is important to note that Goreangab Dam receives treated wastewater and surface runoff from surrounding residential and industrial areas.
“As a result, the water is unsuitable for aquaculture and the fish may be contaminated with heavy metals, bacteria or other harmful pollutants,” says Nghituwamata, warning the public that the fish is, therefore, not suitable for human consumption.
Stressing the ministry’s commitment to safeguarding public health and ensuring responsible environmental practices, Nghituwamata says while the fish from the dam may appear harmless, consuming or selling it poses serious health risks to members of the public.
“The ministry is strongly urging community members to refrain from these activities for their own safety and that of others,” says the executive director.
For More News And Analysis About Namibia Follow Africa-Press
