Namibia Maritime Museum officially opened

President Nangolo Mbumba officially opened the Namibia Maritime Museum (NMM) in Lüderitz on Wednesday.

Mbumba said that he believes the museum will not only become a centrepiece attraction in Lüderitz but will make a difference to the knowledge and understanding of everyone who walks through its doors.

The president hailed the event as a historic occasion. “Today marks a significant milestone in the Lüderitz Waterfront Development Company agenda by establishing Phase Two through the creation of the Namibia Maritime Museum. It is a pleasing development that after many years of deliberation, planning and finally, execution, the town of Lüderitz and the whole Namibian nation at large, can proudly witness the Grand Opening of the Namibia Maritime Museum, which will document the unique relationship that our people have with the ocean,” Mbumba said.

Mbumba paid tribute to the late Dr. Abraham Iyambo, the former Minister of Fisheries and Marine Resources. “He consulted on the conceptual idea of a Namibia Maritime Museum in 2004, and the Cabinet further endorsed the idea in 2009, as a component of the Lüderitz Waterfront Development Company's Second Phase.”

The President said that the Namibia Maritime Museum will play an integral role in properly capturing, documenting and representing Namibia’s maritime heritage and the contribution the people of the country have made to global seafaring. “The museum will include a cultural programme and art events throughout the year, all geared towards promoting cleaner oceans and long-term sustainability. May this museum stand as a symbol of our collective dedication to preserving Namibia’s rich maritime history for generations to come.”

He highlighted that the museum, which is housed within the walls of the Lüderitz Old Power Station, a structure which he said had witnessed over a century of Namibian maritime history since its completion in 1911 during the German colonial era, stands as a beacon of Namibia’s historical marine narrative. “It is envisaged that the Namibia Maritime Museum will become the ultimate resource for discovering our maritime history and 5 celebrating the important role the ocean has played in the history of our country. Not only will this building add to the aesthetic beauty of the town by transforming the old derelict Lüderitz Old Power Station into a more appealing landmark but it will ensure that historical artefacts and vessels are preserved in optimum condition and made accessible for general interest, academic study and for public education.”

Mbumba urged all government officials, educators, students, entrepreneurs, researchers, conservationists, and citizens to visit the museum, participate in its programmes, contribute their own stories and artifacts, and advocate for the preservation of Namibia’s maritime heritage.

The President also emphasised that the ocean is of integral importance to the Namibian nation. “This is not only from a historical standpoint but also as a means of advancing our developmental objectives. The ocean contributes significantly to Namibia’s economy by providing, jobs, food, minerals, transportation, energy resources, ecological services, and tourism opportunities. In this regard, this museum will highlight these contributions, educating visitors about the economic importance of our marine resources and promoting sustainable practices to ensure their preservation.”