Fisheries minister Inge Zaamwani has handed over appointment letters to the newly appointed Board of Directors of the Fish Corporation of Namibia (Fishcor), tasking it with strengthening governance, improving financial accountability and restoring public confidence in the state-owned corporation.

The new board comprises Teofilus Nghitila as chairperson, Josefina Nekongo as deputy chairperson, Dr John Steytler, Edmund Buys, Ndeyapo Ekandjo, Epsom Jossop and Alisa Jacob.

The new board is expected to provide strategic oversight and ensure the effective implementation and monitoring of Fishcor’s integrated business and strategic plans.

Zaamwani identified the finalisation of Fishcor’s Integrated Strategic Business Plan as one of the board’s immediate priorities. She also called for stronger financial governance and internal controls, as well as proper management of legal and governance matters.

The board will be expected to ensure that conflicts of interest are appropriately declared and addressed.

“Fishcor requires strong governance, accountability and strategic leadership. The Board has an important responsibility to restore confidence in the Corporation and ensure that it operates effectively, transparently and in accordance with its mandate,” Zaamwani said.

The board will operate within the applicable legal and policy framework, including the Companies Act, the Fish Corporation of Namibia Act and the Marine Resources Act, as well as relevant fisheries policies.

It will also oversee management to ensure that approved plans are properly implemented.

Zaamwani expressed confidence in the new board and said its appointment came at an important time for Fishcor as the corporation enters a new phase of institutional strengthening and improved performance.