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SANUMARC News
Volume 1 of 2017
SANUMARC is an Operating Unit of the United Nations
University’s Institute for Natural Resources in Africa
Contents
1.0 Foreword 3
2.0 Chief Editor’s Note 4
3.0 New Director at SANUMARC 5
4.0. SANUMARC’s 1st Annual Research Conference 2016 6
5.0 SANUMARC undertaking pioneering research in marine and terrestrial
environments of Namibia 7
5.1 SANUMARC hosting Pioneering Aerosol Research 7
5.2 Mushroom research 9
5.3. Regional Graduate Network in Oceanography 10
5.4. Walvis Bay Lagoon Project 12
5.5. Ocean acidification research 13
5.6. Fresh water fish parasites survey 14
5.7 Saline Tilapia breed- First for Namibia 15
6.0 SANUMARC researchers and interests 16
7.0 Eight new research associates join SANUMARC 21
8.0 Student on attachment 25
9.0 Visiting research post graduate student 26
10 Social Activities 27
Editorial Team
Dr Samuel K. Mafwila (Editor in Chief)
Dr Hupenyu A. Mupambwa
Dr Chibo Chikwililwa
Mr Andreas Namwoonde
Mr Gadaffi M. Liswaniso
2
1.0 Foreword
Greetings from Sam Nujoma Campus, from where I am signing off
this latest edition of the SANUMARC Newsletter. I am doing this with a
great honor, because I have always read forewords and given them
the respect they usually come with. Having to do one myself signifies
the milestone we have overcome as a Research Centre where I
am a staff member, as well as being the Campus Assistant Pro-Vice
Chancellor at a University where I also studied at.
As the following pages will indicate, colleagues have been active,
productive and impactful on several fronts during the past months.
Accomplishments include successfully hosting of the Centre’s
first annual conference, scholarly meetings and seminars, invited
keynotes, contributions to major national and international refereed
journals and many more. In this issue, you will also notice how we
maintain professional scientific integrity with our externally funded
research projects. At the moment, we have expanded our research
activities to four new donor-funded projects to the total value of NAD
5.2 million.
This Newsletter also draws attention to the changes in leadership of the Centre that took
effect at the beginning of 2016. We therefore take this opportunity to once again thank and
appreciate Prof Edosa Omoregie, who served as SANUMARC Director from 2011 to 2015. Prof
Omoregie was instrumental in the transformation we are currently witnessing at the Centre, and
we sincerely applauded his visionary leadership. Dr Sam Mafwila is now the new Director of the
SANUMARC, with the position of Deputy Director (Academic Affairs and Research) now being
served by Dr Johannes Iitembu. I have since then taken up the leadership of the Sam Nujoma
Campus as the Assistant Pro-Vice Chancellor. As you will see, this newsletter has also profiled
all researchers, old and new, that make up the team at SANUMARC. This is a new era for all of
us at SANUMARC and we look forward to our partner’s, mentors and stakeholder’s continued
support.
In so publishing this newsletter, our goals are to inform our readers about our activities, highlight
and showcase our dynamic team that is working hard to promote postgraduate education,
creativity, address critical scientific and technological challenges, whilst encouraging research
in areas of national and international significance in marine and coastal resources research.
SANUMARC enjoys the Sam Nujoma Campus twinning with the Department of Fisheries and
Aquatic Sciences (DFAS) under the leadership of Mr Lineekela Kandjengo as the Head of the
Department. DFAS has a vibrant population of 94 second to fourth year BSc Honours students,
whose interest in marine science signifies that the future of our marine environment is in good
hands. The staff of DFAS are very instrumental in the activities of SANUMARC and it is because of
them that hosting Postgraduate students as SANUMARC research fellows is possible.
In my conclusion, my sincere appreciation is due to the editorial team led by Dr. H. A Mupambwa
for compiling this edition. I hope you will enjoy reading our latest news and feel encouraged to
join us in making a difference through research.
Thank you.
Dr Hilkka O. N. Ndjaula
Assistant Pro-Vice Chancellor: Sam Nujoma Campus
SANUMARC News I 3
2.0 CHIEF EDITOR’S NOTE
The Sam Nujoma Marine and Coastal Resources Research
Centre (SANUMARC) is a full-fledged multidisciplinary research
Centre of the University of Namibia, with the mandate to
promote research, innovation and development activities in the
field of Marine Sciences and coastal Resources. As expressed
in the UNAM Act of 1992, UNAM has the research responsibility
to undertake research, advance and disseminate knowledge,
and to contribute to the social and economic development
of Namibia. Located at the coast of Namibia, the SANUMARC
is ready to claim its rightful position in the Marine and Coastal
Resources research community, thus this Newsletter serves as
a platform for us to communicate and showcase our research
activities to all our stakeholders.
SANUMARC serves Namibia through promoting research
and development activities in the field of marine and coastal
resources, taking into consideration the unique comparative and
competitive advantage of the Benguela cold current ecosystem
and straddling desert environment. Research activities at
the Centre are geared towards developing the fisheries and
aquaculture sectors, desert and coastal agriculture, sustainable utilization of resources,
protection and conservation of the marine and coastal resources.
The objective of this newsletter is to provide information bi-annually on the developments and
initiatives taking place at SANUMARC to the wider University community and all our stakeholders,
thereby ensuring that the public is sufficiently informed on the objectives, activities, services
offered and milestones achieved.
Gladly so, this will be the first issue in 2017 since 2014, after the newsletter production was
halted for reason beyond our control. This issue of the newsletter contains news briefs of the
latest developments at SANUMARC, covering various areas from new appointments, the very
1st annual research conference, scientific discoveries and pioneering research, staff profiles
and their research interests, postgraduate research fellows as well as other stories that made
headlines in 2016 and the first half of the year 2017.
So sit back and relax …. And enjoy reading this masterpiece.
Until next time.
Dr Samuel Mafwila
Editor-in-Chief
4
3.0 New Director at SANUMARC
Dr Samuel Kakambi Mafwila is the new Director of the Sam Nujoma Marine and Coastal
Resources Research Centre (SANUMARC) a position he was appointed to, starting January
2016. Dr Mafwila is no stranger to the marine research field, since he has been lecturing and
doing research at the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences, where he teaches (and
continues to teach) Physical Oceanography, and Biological Oceanography. He served the
Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences at various levels, as well as active participation in
the Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resources Committees, amongst others the Postgraduate
School Committee, and the Research and Publication Committee.
Dr Mafwila is a native of Iseke Village of the Katima Rural Constituency in the Zambezi Region.
He graduated from UNAM with BSc degree (Zoology and Geography) in 1997 and proceeded
to complete a Post Graduate Diploma in Education (PGDE) in Physical Science and Biology
in 1998. During his BSc final year, 1997, he became a student intern at the Multi-Disciplinary
Research Centre (MRC), and eventually became a Junior Researcher in 1998, a position he
held until he left to further his studies in 2000. He graduated with a BSc Honours degree in
Marine Biology from Rhodes University in 2001. He went on further to enroll for an MSc in Marine
Science at the University of Cape Town, graduating in 2003. Upon his return home, he joined
the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences as a lecturer. In 2007, he initiated his plans for
PhD studies at the University of Cape Town on a part-and-full time mode, graduating with a PhD
in Marine Science at the then Department of Zoology in 2011.
Throughout his PhD studies, he continued to teach his full modules in the Department of Fisheries
and Aquatic Sciences. Not only did he contribute to teaching, but also contributed immensely
to the Faculty and department research agenda and
research outputs through publications. Dr Mafwila
successfully applied for the SCOR funding under the
visiting scholar programme, and a SCOR visiting scholar
was offered for two years (2010 and 2011), through which
Prof. Kurt Hannselmann came to UNAM occasionally to
assist him teach Chemical and Biological Oceanography
and develop the capacity in the department. A new
idea was born out of this, to start a Discovery Camp in
an Upwelling System, the so-called “Regional Graduate
Network in Oceanography”.
He has published widely in peer-reviewed journal with
high impact factor as well as other publications. He
is now at the helm of SANUMARC, contributing to the
daily management, leadership guidance and direction,
research, innovation and development, as well as
teaching.
Dr Mafwila stressed that “It is my greatest hope that
we achieve our goal of being a world-class University
Research Centre, serving as an incubator for promoting
research, innovation and development activities in the field of marine and coastal resources of
Namibia, and to foster post-graduate academic research and partnership programs”
The Editorial team and staff of SANUMARC and the Sam Nujoma Campus wishes him a
productive tenure.
SANUMARC News I 5
4.0. SANUMARC’s 1st Annual Research Conference 2016
SANUMARC holds its 1st Research Conference in Henties Bay
The SANUMARC held its 1st annual
research conference held on the 28
– 30th of September 2016 at the Sam
Nujoma Campus in Henties Bay. The
conference ran under the theme
“Innovative research for healthier
future”. The conference official
opening and keynote address
was given by His Worship Hermann
Hosabe /Honeb, the Mayor of
Henties Bay Town. This was the first
of its kind for SANUMARC and this
conference saw participants who Participants of the SANUMARC 1st Annual Research Conference
came from far and wide in Namibia,
from different organizations such as; the Namibian Mariculture Association, the Ministry of
Fisheries and Marine Resources, the National University of Science and Technology, University of
Namibia, among others.
Participants of the SANUMARC 1st Annual The mayor of Henties Bay His Worship Hermann Hosabe /Honeb,
sitting second from the right among the UNAM participants at the
Research Conference research conference.
Following the official opening, participants had an opportunity to take a Campus tour, where
they were introduced to the various activities taking place within the Campus as a whole. Up to
20 oral research presentations and 2 research proposals were made during this conference with
varying themes from Aquaculture, Fish and Fisheries, Marine environment, Renewable energy
and Coastal agriculture. Some of the highlights of the conference included presentations of
the potential of aquatic chicken in the form of Tilapia fish under different environments; the
effects of ocean acidification on marine life; research on Namibian Silver Cob; Horse mackerel
biology under different abiotic conditions to mention a few.
This conference also gave a great opportunity to the final year students doing their BSc Fisheries
and Aquatic Sciences degree within the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences at
Sam Nujoma Campus to showcase their research results. A total of 9 students presented their
research projects during this annual conference, giving them a great boost and experience in
finalizing their research projects. Following the successful hosting of this conference, the last day
6
Participants actively following proceedings at the research Ukarapo Mungunda giving a presentation at the
conference at SANUMARC. SANUMARC research conference.
coincided with the UNESCO International day of university sport, where participants and campus
students enjoyed sporting activities on the beach overlooking the mouth of the Omaruru River
in Henties Bay. Though being the first to be organized by SANUMARC, the conference lived
up to its expectations, with the Director of SANUMARC, Dr Sam Mafwila promising to make this
conference an annual event, with more international participation.
5.0 SANUMARC undertaking pioneering research in marine and
terrestrial environments of Namibia
Researchers at SANUMARC are undertaking cutting edge research in the field of marine and
terrestrial environments of Namibia. This has seen researchers attracting four externally funded
projects with a total value of NAD 5.2 million. This research is focusing on four areas as itemized
below:
• Ecosystem health status and biodiversity of the Walvis Bay Lagoon
• Ocean acidification
• Supporting the blue economy: developing molecular tools for fisheries management
• Human health risk assessment of emerging phycotoxins affecting the Namibian mariculture
industry.
These research projects are running between 2015 – 2019, with funding from the National
Commission on Science and Technology (NCRST), Namibian Port Authorities (Namport) and the
Walvis Bay Municipality.
5.1 SANUMARC hosting Pioneering Aerosol Research
The Henties Bay Aerosol Observatory was established in 2011 with the placement of a Cimel
Automated Sun photometer. This instrument measures the direct solar beam, as well as sky
radiances at five wavelengths primarily in order to determine aerosol particle characteristics
in the atmosphere. Aerosols are small particles less than 10 micrometers in the atmosphere,
they have a slow settling time and can be transported by winds on a sub-continental scale.
The establishment of the Henties Bay Aerosol Observatory, is collaborative work of Laboratoire
Interuniversitaire des Systèmes Atmosphériques (LISA) in Créteil (France), the NorthWest University
(NWU) in Potchefstroom (South Africa) and the Sam Nujoma Marine & Coastal Resources
Research Centre (SANUMARC) of the University of Namibia.
SANUMARC News I 7
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has identified aerosols as one of the major
influences on climate, as well as one of the components of the atmosphere about which the
least is known. Their influence is via three mechanisms: the “direct” mechanism, where solar
radiation is reflected back into space by light-coloured aerosol particles, thereby cooling
the surface; the “indirect” mechanism whereby certain aerosols act as condensation nuclei
for cloud formation, which in turn reflect sunlight back to space; and a heating mechanism
whereby dark-coloured aerosols will have a warming effect by absorption of sunlight.
The Namibian coastline is a complex environment, henceforth a natural laboratory in which a
full study of aerosols can be carried out, from aerosol optical and physical properties, aerosol-
radiation-cloud interactions and aerosols effects on earth radiation budget. Various natural
sources of aerosols are the ocean (which generates microscopic salt particles by evaporation
of water from sea-spray), wind-blown dust from the surrounding arid areas, dust from the various
salt pans and aerosols generated by veld-fires. Aerosols from each of these sources will have a
different composition, and different characteristics such as size and reflectivity.
Various measurements are currently carried out at Henties Bay Aerosol Observatory. The
following instrument currently deployed at the observatory:
1. Cimel sunphotometer, it measures direct solar beam and sky radiances at five wavelengths,
the measurements determine the parameter called the Aerosol Optical Thickness (AOT).
Sunphotometer at Henties Bay is part of a global network operated by NASA’s Aeronet
project.
2. Rupprecht and Patashnick TEOM vibrating microbalance (model 1405, R&P), it measures
surface dust concentrations.
3. Magee Scientific Aethalometer (Model AE-1, Magee Inc), it measures black carbon (soot)
aerosols which are a by-product of combustion, for example in veld-fires.
4. Horiba Ozone and NOx monitor UV-Analyser (Environment SA), it measures the ozone
monitor measures ambient ozone and NOx concentration at the parts-per-billion level.
5. Partisol (Model 2205, Thermo Inc), it samples ambient aerosol which are collected on filters,
further analysis by XRF (X-ray fluorescence) and ion chromatography are performed in
order to try to determine the chemical composition of the aerosols.
The pictures are Aerosols team collaborators with Mr. Andreas Namwoonde a SANUMARC researcher
(1st from the right) and equipment inside and above the station at SANUMARC.
8
6. 3-lambda nephelometer (Model 3596, TSI Inc) measures the Aerosol scattering coefficient
The measurements at SANUMARC are planned on a long term basis as long as there will be
support for the project. The data generated in the past have been presented locally and at
other international platforms. Furthermore, two PhD students are using data from the Henties
Bay Aerosol Observatory in their studies. Therefore the presence of the Henties Bay Aerosol
Observatory along the Namibian coast will contribute immensely the knowledge of atmospheric
studies in Namibia and globally.
5.2 Mushroom research
Seaweed substituted substrate and its influence on the health related nutrients in edible
mushrooms – Research underway at SANUMARC
Evident from the ample seaweeds seen cast along the beach, the Namibian marine environment
is more productive compared to the terrestrial coastal environment, thanks to the Benguela
upwelling system, which supplies nutrients necessary for primary growth. The Namibian coast
is littered with lots of unutilized seaweeds.
Seaweeds are rich in antioxidants, amino
acids and fatty acids amongst other essential
nutrients required for human nutrition. A team
of researchers at SANUMARC considered
exploring the properties of the seaweeds by
using them to amend the traditional mushroom
substrate and to determine the influence of
the seaweeds on the health related nutrients
of the resulting mushrooms.
The research team on mushroom seized the
opportunity to put to good use what the
coastal environment offered and trying to
turn it into healthy human food. Three species
were collected as they were identified to be
edible and occurred in abundance which
are; Ulva spp, Laminaria spp and Gracilariopsis
spp. After collecting the fresh seaweeds, the
seaweeds were dried in an airconditioned
room at SANUMARC, and then ground with a
mechanical grinder into smaller peieces. After
milling the dry seaweeds, they were divided
Abundant seaweeds on the Namibian coast line (Henties Bay
into various proportions then soaked along with
Beach) being harvested for mushroom research.
rice straws. After soaking, they were drained
then used to amend the rice straw substrate.
SANUMARC News I 9
Seaweeds and wheat bran being added to straw, mixed together, packed in
polythyene bags then pasteurized in a steam pot
After pasteurization, the amended substrate was inoculated
with spawn of king oysters (Pleurotus eryngii) and white elm
(Hypsizygus ulmaris) mushrooms. Considering the absorptive
properties of mushrooms, the research team is optimistic that
the nutritional properties and health benefits of mushrooms
will be enhanced by the incorporation of seaweeds in the
substrate. The findings of this study will redefine the agenda
of the mushroom research and development, by not only
enriching the mushrooms but also adding value to the
beach cast seaweeds.
Rice straw amended with sea weed as a substrate with
fruiting mushrooms at SANUMARC.
5.3. Regional Graduate Network in
Oceanography
SANUMARC holds a successful Regional Graduate Network in Oceanography (RGNO) 2016
The third African Ocean Discovery Camp for research-based Training on the Sustainable Use
and Scientific Management of Marine Ecosystems was held on campus from the 3rd May-
4th June 2016. As in previous years, this course aimed at affording students the opportunity
to collaborate in an interdisciplinary research project with guidance and supervision by local
and international scientists. These projects were aimed at looking at the interactions between
chemical, biological, physical and geological topics related to marine biogeochemistry
and ecosystem research. Some students also applied molecular techniques aimed at
understanding these biogeochemical processes. Seven post-graduate students from various
countries attended. Their work was later presented during the RGNO symposium at the
10National Marine Information and Research Centre
(NatMIRC). These presentations included their initial
results from the cruise. The annual open day for
regional secondary school children was held. This
year had an additional outreach component with
students on campus. Third and fourth year students
were invited to informal meetings. This was aimed
at exposing them to post-graduates conducting
various fields of study.
The participants for the 2016 RGNO came from far
and wide and below is a list of the participants and
their research titles.
1. Blanca Ausin (Spain)
Coccolithophore spatial and vertical distribution and their relationships
to environmental conditions in the Benguela Upwelling
2. Philip Eickenbusch (Germany)
Microbial Formate Dehydrogenase Activity in the Shelf Sediment of the
Benguela Upwelling Ecosystem
3. Zimkhita Gebe (South Africa)
Spatio-temporal Variability of Picophytoplankton and their vertical
Distribution in the Benguela Upwelling System
Sampling sediment; one of the
corers attached to the multi corer;
4. Leanne Hancock (United States of America)
collecting pore water samples; CTD
Temporal and Spatial Comparisons of Nutrient Limitation and Redox
being deployed.
Stability in the Benguela Upwelling System - How Nitrogen Cycling
and Nitrogen Loss can be studied Applying Stable Nitrogen Isotope
Techniques
Phytoplankton net being deployed; the Namibian Ministry of fisheries and marine
resources research vessel Mirabilis; collecting sediment samples using a grabb
SANUMARC News I 115. Said Hashim (Kenya)
Macrobenthic Distribution across the Oxygen Minimum Zone of the Northern Benguela
Upwelling System - How tolerant are macrobenthic Organisms towards Hypoxia
6. Ismael Kangueehi Kaukurauee (Namibia)
Concentration and Dissolution of Trace Metal from Known Dust Sources in Namibia - How
Namibian Deserts are fertilizing the Ocean from above
7. Beth Waweru (Kenya)
Composition of Nematodes and Annelids Distribution across Northern Benguela Upwelling
System in Namibia
5.4. Walvis Bay Lagoon Project
NAMPORT engages UNAM for comprehensive research on the ecosystem health status and
ecological monitoring of the Walvis Bay Lagoon
The University of Namibia (UNAM) and the Namibian Ports Authority (Namport) on the 22 of
November 2016 signed a Memorandum of Understanding to partner together in carrying out a
comprehensive research on the ecosystem health status and long-term ecological monitoring
of the Walvis Bay lagoon. The historic signing ceremony which took place at Namport
Headquarters in Walvis Bay
and was witness by senior
managements of both
organisations. The University
Vice Chancellor, Professor
Lazarus Hangula signed on
behalf of the University, while
Namport CEO, Mr Bisey /
Uiriab signed on behalf of the
Port Authority.
Professor Hangula expressed
gratitude to the management
of Namport for the confidence
the Authority has in the ability
of UNAM scientists to take Namport CEO, Mr B /Uiriab and UNAM Vice Chancellor, Prof L Hangula
on this laudable research signing the agreement, flanked on the right is Prof OD Mwandemele, UNAM’s
initiative and assured that the Pro-Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Prof E Omoregie and Dr HON
partnership will be held in high Ndjaula, Assistant Pro-Vice Chancellor for the Sam Nujoma Campus
esteem by the University with
all the professional code of ethics it deserves.
Namport will commit close to N$ 3 million over a period of three years to the research which will
commence in February, 2017. The research will be carried out by UNAM scientists based at the
Sam Nujoma Campus, with Professor Edosa Omoregie as the Principal Investigator. According
to Professor Omoregie, the research is expected to yield valuable scientific data needed for the
Management Action Plan of Namport on the management strategies for sustainable utilization
of the natural resources and ecosystem services of the lagoon.
12The Walvis Bay Lagoon is among the most productive coastal benthic ecosystems globally and
provides nursery habitats for several species of fish, invertebrates and aquatic reptiles, and
supporting productivity in aquatic food webs. The lagoon is home to hundreds of bird species,
many of which use the lagoon as a migratory route from Africa to the Arctic Circle. The lagoon
has received recognition by Birdlife International and declared one of the “areas of global
significance for bird conservation” for which it received a Ramsar Site status in 1995 by the
International Convention on Wetlands.
5.5. Ocean acidification research
Researchers at SANUMARC investigating impacts of climate change on ocean acidification
Ocean acidification is one of the consequences of human activities such as burning of fossil fuels,
deforestation and other things that contribute to global warming. The release of greenhouse
gases into the atmosphere is the major driving factor to climate change, it is also a driving factor
to ocean acidification because it causes chemical changes in the pH of the ocean making it
slowly acidic over decades. Ocean acidification is not as popular as climate change but the
consequences over hundreds of years will be devastating in the ocean ecosystem. It is mainly
driven by the high concentrations of Carbon Dioxide in the atmosphere that is absorbed by the
ocean and chemically reacting to produce weaker acids in the ocean. The extent of ocean
acidification effects on the marine ecosystem is still not clearly known but has already proved to
be substantial from the little information that is currently available. The average ocean pH was
about 8.2 before the industrialization and has since dropped to 8.1 over a period of a 100 plus
years, it is predicted to drop to as low as 7.8 by the year 2100. The current average pH in some
ocean parts is as low as 7.8 depending on its geographical location.
It is believed that ocean acidification is more pronounced in oceans that are characterized by
an upwelling system that brings cold bottom water to the surface. The Atlantic Ocean along
the Namibian coastline also known as the Benguela upwelling system is one of the ocean
ecosystems that is believed to be impacted by ocean acidification earlier than other parts of
the world’s oceans because of its upwelling system, its cold temperatures, and high primary
productivity. All these factors are commonly known to enhance ocean acidification thereby
giving the Namibian nation more reasons to study, experiment and predict how the Benguela
upwelling system will be impacted as well as its fisheries sector mainly the shellfish industry.
The University of Namibia was awarded a 2 year project by the National Commission on Research
Science and Technology (NCRST) to investigate the impacts of ocean acidification on the oyster
industry in Namibia. Preliminary results of the project have shown that ocean acidification can
slow the growth of oysters, reduce survival of oyster larvae and could even potentially dissolve
their shells. The funded project has helped researchers understand the consequences of ocean
acidification on the oyster industry as it is one of the fast growing sectors in Aquaculture that
also employs a significant number of people in Walvis Bay and Luderitz. This project has formed
3 B.Sc Honours final year student projects and 1 PhD research project.
The University of Namibia is very grateful to NCRST for granting funds for this project as it
provided significant contribution to training and capacity building for Staff and students in the
development of their careers in Marine research.
SANUMARC News I 135.6. Fresh water fish parasites survey
Freshwater Fish Parasites Survey
Fish parasites are an important part of the fish ecology as they are ubiquitous organisms, primarily
surviving in a dynamic equilibrium with their host(s) and they are often overlooked in fish health
assessments. Disease or even mortality in fish can occur if the parasite/host equilibrium is altered
by either a change in the environment, the fish or the disease causing agent. Therefore it is
imperative that we have knowledge of both parasites and parasitic communities within a given
population of fish.
Parasitological surveys on aquatic systems
have been extensively conducted in some
countries but few studies have been done in
Namibia.
A pilot survey was done during late June
2016 by staff and students of the University
of Namibia (Department of Fisheries and
Aquatic Sciences), led by Mr. Martin Tjipute
and the University of Limpopo (Department
of Biodiversity), led by Professor Luus-Powell.
The survey was conducted at Hardap Dam
(24°29′58″S, 17°51′31″E) which is fed by the
Fish River, with a surface area of 25 km2 Dr. Ali Halajian, Lecturer at the Department of Biodiversity,
and a 40 m high dam wall; forming the University of Limpopo and Mr. David Kunutu, PhD Fellow,
largest reservoir in Namibia. This dam has a University of Limpopo, and Ms. Susas Absalom, final year
strategic importance, first because of the BSc student, Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences,
size and location in Hardap Nature Reserve University of Namibia in the background, at the MFMR
and secondly because Fish River finally joins laboratory at Hardap Freshwater Fish Research Institute.
Orange River between Namibia and South
Africa and hence any changes in this
system can indirectly affect the aquatic
health of both countries. A total of 125 fish
were dissected on which numerous ecto-
and endoparasites were recorded that
include monogeneans, digenean larvae,
adult and larval cestodes, nematode
larvae, and copepods.
Lernaea spp. attached to the skin of fish at
The freshwater fish parasite survey will
Hardap Dam. Note the lesions and secondary
continue for this academic year. The
infection caused by this copepod at the site
health of aquatic environment is very
of attachment
important and regular monitoring ensures
that adequate data on the health status
and trends of the aquatic environment and biota is collected. It is envisaged that regular
freshwater fish parasite surveillance can be expanded to other major water bodies in Namibia.
145.7 Saline Tilapia breed- First for Namibia
A fish tank full of healthy growing Tilapia fish in Tanks under different treatments of sea
sea water. water with Tilapia fish.
A project aimed at developing a local tilapia species breed for saline water is ongoing at the
Sam Nujoma Campus. To date, the project has achieved a first generation and plans are that
the project will continue until it reaches the 3rd or 4th generation of tilapia in saline water.
Namibia being a dry country but with substantial saline water bodies and abundant seawater,
availability of a saline water tolerant breed will allow for the expansion tilapia culture in those
areas, or industries with seawater plants. This is the first saline breed for Namibia and the Centre
is excited and looking forward to expanding this breakthrough to bigger scales. This laboratory
stage is about to see daylight and we are all looking forward to the industrialization of saline
tilapia aquaculture in Namibia.
SANUMARC News I 156.0 SANUMARC researchers and interests
Dr Chibo Chikwililwa
Researcher: Micro-algae and Seaweeds Research and Development
Qualifications:
• B Sc in biology, earth and environmental studies (UCT)
• MSc in Marine Microbiology (University of Bremen)
• Ph.D in Marine Biology (University of Rostock)
Research interests:
Eukaryotic taxonomy and consequences of high productivity in an upwelling
system including bloom development. Marine phycotoxins and macronutrient
and environmental factors affecting their production and accumulation in
shellfish. The effects of ocean acidification on regional coastal micro and
macroalgal communities. Assessing the chemical properties of macroalgal species to determine which species
would be best used as a substrate for mushroom production.
Research projects:
• Human health risk assessment of emerging phycotoxins affecting the Namibian mariculture industry
• Characterization of the constituents in Namibian macroalga to determine the commercial potential of each
species.
• Determining the effects of ocean acidification on the plankton community in the BUS (using coccolithophores
as an indicator species)
• Identification and distribution of macroalgal species along the Namibian coastline
• Investigating macroalga as a substrate for mushroom cultures.
Contact details:
E-mail: CChikwililwa@unam.na
Phone: +264 64 502 615
16Mr. Andreas Namwoonde
Researcher: Renewable energy resources
Qualifications: MSc. Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology
Research Interests: Renewable energy resources, Climate change and aerosols
studies, Corrosion, desalination and water treatment
Research Area: Biogas Productions
Biogas has shown potential to be one of Namibia’s emerging renewable sources
of energy that can substitute the use of firewood and fossil fuel as energy source
in many rural households. Since little effort have been done to adopt the use of
biogas in Namibia, investigations will be carried out to test the biogas potential
of waste from different sources, that will include cattle dung, goat dropping and food waste. Several tests were
carried out at SANUMARC and the results are showing potential in biogas production.
Further, grey water from digesters is reported to be rich in nutrients essential for plants growth. Test will be carried
out to determine the changes in nutritional content of manure used and those of grey water after biogas
production, so that better recommendation on the use of grey water will be made.
Contact details:
E-mail: anamwoonde@unam.na
Phone: +264 64 502 612
Dr Hupenyu Allan Mupambwa
Researcher: Desert and Coastal Agriculture program
Qualifications: PhD (Soil Science), MSc (Agronomy); BSc (Crop Science)
Dr Mupambwa is a research agronomist who joined UNAM in July 2016 as a
researcher to lead the desert and coastal agriculture program. He currently
leads the program with his research focus being on bio-saline agriculture,
hydroponics, aquaponics, desert ecology, mushroom research, community
engagement on agriculture related programs, waste beneficiation,
vermicomposting, amongst others. Dr Mupambwa has so far published 9
research papers in ISI listed refereed journals.
Currently, he is involved in the following research projects:
• Sea water irrigation under different management systems and its impact on a Namibian salt affected desert-
coastal soil quality and productivity
• Seaweed amended substrate and its influence on health related nutrients, growth and chemistry of edible
mushrooms
• Establishment of a wormery for vermicomposting research integrated with hydroponic systems.
• Desert soil and seed bank characterization studies.
Contact details:
E-mail: hmupambwa@unam.na
Phone: +264 64 502 632
SANUMARC News I 17Ms Martha Hausiku
Assistant Researcher: Mushroom
Ms Martha Hausiku holds a BSc. Molecular, Environmental and Physiological
Biology (UNAM) and she joined SANUMARC in 2011 as an Assistant Researcher
in the mushrooms research program. She is also currently a staff development
fellow undertaking her MSc in Biodiversity Management with UNAM.
Research interest:
• Genetic characterization of edible and medicinal mushrooms.
• Evaluation of organic materials to be used as substrates for mushroom
cultivation.
• Establish health benefits of mushrooms and innovative methods of adding
value to mushrooms and mushroom by-products
• Identify methods of fortifying mushrooms with health promoting essential nutrients and bioactive compounds.
• Identify constraints limiting mushroom productivity and establish economic, social, environmental and legal
indicators at national level to support the sustainability of the mushroom industry.
Contact details:
Tel: +264 64 502 631
E-mail: MKHausiku@unam.na
Mr Gadaffi M. Liswaniso
Mariculture Researcher
Qualifications:
• MSc in Marine Microbiology and Molecular Biotechnology (Ningbo
University, China)
• BSc in Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences (University of Namibia)
Research Interests:
• Monitoring the ocean acidification status of the Benguela upwelling
system off the Namibian coastline.
• Improving shellfish hatchery, nutritional requirements, and culture
techniques.
• To develop efficient and cost effective fish feed using local ingredients.
• To investigate the biotechnological potential of local freshwater algae.
• Molecular studies on microorganisms and fishery stocks.
18Dr. Samuel Kakambi Mafwila
Director: SANUMARC, Sam Nujoma Campus
Other Positions: Lecturer; Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences.
Qualifications: PhD: Marine Science, MSc: Applied Marine Science (University
of Cape Town, RSA); BSc (Honours): Marine Biology (Rhodes University, RSA);
Post-graduate Diploma in Education (PGDE): Physical Science and Biology,
BSc: Zoology and Geography (University of Namibia, Namibia).
Research Interests Areas: Fisheries Oceanography; Ecosystem Health;
Oceanographic research; Land-Ocean-Atmosphere Interactions (e.g.
Climate Change); Freshwater Systems and its biota; Integrated Coastal Zone
Management; Aquaculture; Marine Spatial Planning (MSP); Environmental Impact Assessment.
Teaching: Chemical and Biological Oceanography; Physical Oceanography; Integrated Coastal Zone
Management; Law of the Sea.
Contact details:
Phone contact details: +264 64 502 644
E. mail: smafwila@unam.na
Dr Hilkka O. N. Ndjaula
Senior Researcher: Fish and Fisheries
Qualifications:
• PhD (Marine Biology and Fisheries management) University of Bergen
(UiB), NORWAY
• M.Phil (Marine Biology and Fisheries Management), University of Bergen
(UiB), NORWAY
• M.Phil Diploma (Marine Biology and Fisheries Management), University
of Bergen (UiB), NORWAY
• Postgraduate Certificate (Environmental Engineering: Sustainable
management in Coastal Areas), Cape Peninsula University of
Technology (CPUT), SOUTH AFRICA
• B.Sc. (Zoology and Chemistry), University of Namibia (UNAM), NAMIBA
Other position: Assistant Pro-Vice Chancellor: Sam Nujoma Campus.
Dr Ndjaula is a senior researcher in the fish and fisheries research program of the Centre. Her research interests
span from biological and ecological indicators to fish basic biology, with the main focus on reproductive traits.
As a senior supervisor with a responsibility of assisting junior researchers, Dr Ndjaula is involved in diverse research
programs at SANUMARC like coastal agriculture, aquaponics and aquaculture. Being the Assistant Pro-Vice
Chancellor of the Sam Nujoma Campus, she oversees research activities at the campus and keeps herself
reading about various research topics. Her research scope has therefore expanded over the years.
SANUMARC News I 19Currently she is involved in the following projects:
1. Kob (Argyrosomus inodorus) reproductive biology
2. Tilapia (Oreochromis andersonii) fingerling production
3. Saline Tilapia (Oreochromis andersonii)
4. Kob (Argyrosomus inodorus) Tagging program
5. Spawning seasons and spawning frequencies of Kob (Argyrosomus inodorus) and Galjoen (Dichistius
capensis) in Central Namibia
Contact details:
E-mail: hndjaula@unam.na
Telephone: +264 64 502 610
Mr Kaspar Shimooshili
Marine Science Technologist
Key responsibilities include:
• Conduct experiments in the laboratory mainly trace element and toxic
analysis,
• Troubleshoot and calibration of equipment’s,
• Piloting research in the area of Marine Science at sea and along the coast
of Namibia
• Supervision of student field work.
Publication
Seabird mortality in the Namibian demersal longline fishery and
recommendations for best practice mitigation measures. 2017, Oryx – The
International Journal of Conservation.
Contact details:
E-mail: kshimooshili@unam.na
Telephone: +264 64 502 635
Mr Berthold Handura
Position: Field & Laboratory Assistant
Key responsibilities:
• Assisting in maintaining the garden and greenhouse activities.
• Assisting researchers in various research experiments in any way
possible.
20Mr Johan De Klerk
Position: Field & Laboratory Assistant
Key responsibilities.
• Maintaining fish healthy, well fed and water tanks cleaning in the
Mariculture side.
• Assisting researchers in any way possible in marine research.
Mr Kharuxab Sending Toelath
Position: Labourer
Key responsibilities
• Assisting with equipment maintenance and repair.
• Assisting researchers with laboratory work and field research.
7.0 Eight new research associates join SANUMARC
This year, the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences at the Sam Nujoma Campus recruited it’s largest
number of postgraduate students pursuing their Master of Science degrees by research. Due to their degrees
being research based, these postgraduate students are also SANUMARC research associates who will be working
with SANUMARC researchers within their various projects. There is so much hope that these research associates will
boost the output of SANUMARC and the campus as a whole. Below is a summary on these research associates.
Bartholomeus N. S Tjandja
Mr Bartholomeus N. S Tjandja is currently undertaking his studies for an MSc
Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences by research at SANUMARC.
His research title is: Assessing the fate of phycotoxins in shellfish from the
Northern Benguela.
The overall goal of the study will be to conduct a human health risk assessment
of most common phycotoxins historically affecting the Namibian shellfish
industry, with the aim of adding information on these parameters. This will then
go into generating a realistic early warning system for the shellfish industry
with regard to shellfish phycotoxin accumulation and phytoplankton toxicity.
Batch cultures of toxic Alexandrium spp, lipophilic toxin causative species and
SANUMARC News I 21non-toxin local diatom and dinoflagellate species will be established and maintained. These cultures will then
be used in laboratory feeding experiments for Perna perna, Mytilus galloprovincialis, and Crassostrea gigas. The
feeding rate, phycotoxin accumulation, metabolism and depuration of the phycotoxins in the three shellfish
species will then be determined. Phycotoxin analysis will be done using high performance liquid chromatography
with fluorescence detection (HPLC-FD).
Annette Megameno Amakali
Ms. Annette Megameno Amakali completed her 4 year BSc (Hons) degree
in Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences at the Sam Nujoma Campus in 2016. She is
currently undertaking her MSc, Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences by research.
The title of her research is: Ecto- and Endo-parasites of capture-held broodstock
and wild-caught Silver Kob (Argyrosomus inodorus).
Her research has great significance due to the fact that Namibia is exploring
aquaculture as a means of job creation, food provision and poverty
alleviation. Fish parasites, however, have the possibility to pose a threat to the
survival and sustainability of this new sector. Parasite infections are amplified in
aquaculture set-up due to the high-density conditions and increased animal
stress. Many of the parasites, particularly trematodes, are also of zoonotic importance. The study will aim to
identify the different ecto- and endo-parasites infecting the candidate aquaculture finfish species (Silver Kob),
determine the parasite species diversity and organ specificity, estimate parasite prevalence and seasonality as
well as estimate parasite size and sex dependency.
Ester N.G. Shoopala
Ms Ester Shoopala is currently undertaking her studies for an MSc Fisheries and
Aquatic Sciences by research.
Her research title is: Stock separation of the shallow-water hake Merluccius
capensis in Namibia using otolith shape analysis, length-weight relationships
and seasonality in spawning and fish condition.
The fishing industry is an important resource in Namibia with hake contributing
about a third of the total catch. It is essential to know whether there is a
separate stock of M. capensis in Namibia and South Africa for a realistic
assessment and improved trans-boundary management of the resource. This
project aims to determine a stock separation of the shallow-water hake M.
capensis in Namibia using otolith shape analysis, length-weight relationships and seasonality in spawning and fish
condition. Otoliths were collected along the entire Namibian coast (north to south 17°S- 27°S) as well as on the
South African coast during demersal trawl surveys and shape analysis will be performed on three years spanning
two decades, 1995, 2005 and 2015. Weight-length data have already been collected and will be obtained
from the International Commission for the Southeast Atlantic Fisheries (ICSEAF) data base as well as MFMR
database. A non-linear regression will be used to show the length-weight relationship and a likelihood ratio test
will also be used to test the significant differences between the areas. Spawning seasonality and fish condition
(gonadosomatic index and hepatosomatic index) will be investigated using monthly port data collected by
MFMR from commercial samples from 2007 to 2015.
22Eugenia K Paulus
Ms. Eugenia Kwahangadu Paulus is currently undertaking her studies for an
MSc Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences by research at SANUMARC.
Her research title is: The analysis of the spatial variation of the intertidal
sediments and macro-zoobenthic assemblages along Walvis Bay Lagoon,
Namibia.
This study will investigate whether there is any evidence for across-shore and
alongshore gradients in the distribution of sediments and in the composition
of benthic assemblages of the intertidal zone of Walvis Bay Lagoon, and if any
of the gradients are correlated. The quantitative data from this study may
be used to provide future researchers with baseline information necessary to
monitor the ecosystem health of the Walvis Bay Lagoon ecosystem and to
detect any possible long-term anthropogenic disturbance resulting from these operations in the region. All the
benthos and sediment samples collected will be taken to the laboratory for further analysis (sediment samples),
sorting and identification (for benthos samples) before analysis. Data obtained from these analyses will then be
analyzed using Plymouth Routines in Multivariate Ecological Research (PRIMER) software package will then be
used to test for the presence of across shore and along-shore differences in the characteristics of sediment and
of benthos, and if any of the gradients are correlated.
Linda Nuushona Iipinge
Ms Linda Iipinge is undertaking an MSc by research. She recalls she became
interested in fish farming and aquaculture during her undergraduate studies
at UNAM.
Her research is titled: Effect of dietary Carica papaya crude extract on
growth performance, gonad morphological and sex reversal in Oreochromis
andersonii fry.
The rationale of this study includes the facts that, tilapia species are normally
associated with poor performance outputs in intensive production systems due
to their early maturity and prolific breeding behaviour. Controlling precious
maturity and prolific breeding behaviours in tilapia are hence necessary if
farmers want to fully benefit from tilapia farming. In recent years, synthetic
sex reversal hormones have been used to control these behaviours in tilapia. However, synthetic hormones are
believed unsustainable, as they possess potential risk to humans and environments. Medicinal herbal extracts
have been recently reported to have sex reversal effects as synthetic sex reversal hormone and further reported
to elicit growth promoting effects, digestive enhancing effects and immune- stimulating effects in fish and this
form the basis of my research project.
SANUMARC News I 23Hendrina K Kadila
Ms. Hendrina K Kadila is currently undertaking her study for an MSc Fisheries and
Aquatic Sciences by research.
The title of her research project is “The relationship of lipids and energy content
to the trophic position and growth of cape hake (Merluccius capensis) and horse
mackerel (Trachurus capensis)”.
The broad objective of this study is to investigate intraspecific and interspecific
relationships of biochemical compositions (lipids and energy content) and
bioenergetic indices (growth and trophic positions) of cape hake and cape
horse mackerel in Namibian waters. Biochemical and bioenergetic indices are
important in understanding how different fish allocate their resources and can provide detailed knowledge
needed for fisheries management and aquaculture. This study contributes towards efforts to address outstanding
research gaps that limit our ability to apply bioenergetics models in fisheries management of wild and farmed
fish.
Veronica Kapula
Mrs Veronica Kapula is currently undertaking her studies for an MSc Biodiversity
Management by research at SANUMARC.
Her research title is: Genetic population structure and diversity levels of cape
hake (Merluccius capensis) in Namibia using microsatellite markers and
mitochondrial DNA.
The main aim of this study is to investigate the patterns of genetic diversity of Cape
hake across Southern Africa, using a Microsatellite markers and Mitochondrial DNA
to understand the seasonal movements of the two previously identified stocks.
The significant of the study the uncertainty regarding population sub-structuring
has severe implications for the accurate and sustainable management of fishery resources. Harvesting of different
gene pools within what was perceived as a single unit can contribute to species decline and potentially lead to
a further decrease in genetic diversity, while increasing vulnerability to changing environments. Additionally, the
sustainable use of resources had been identified as a key area of research that had the potential to unlock the
blue economy and contribute to the socio-economic fabric of Namibia.
24Greg Mbaimbai
Mr. Greg Mbaimbai is currently undertaking his studies for an MSc Fisheries and
Aquatic Sciences by research at SANUMARC.
His research title is: Assessment of bycatch from the Namibian hake directed
bottom trawl fishery.
Generally, there is lack of published work on bycatch in Namibia and thus the
importance of this study. The overall goal of this study will focus on the factors
that influence bycatch with the aim of adding information and to contribute
to the management of the bycatch species in the hope of establishing a
knowledge-based regularized reporting system for bycatches. The study also
aims to develop ways to minimize bycatch levels in the hake directed bottom trawl fishery. The data will come
from the bottom trawl hake fishery logbooks collected by Namibia’s National Marine Information and Research
Centre (NatMIRC). He is going to analyse data that is over 20 years, in order to get a clear knowledge of how
the hake directed bottom trawl fishery influence and affect bycatch. Data will be explored using multivariate
analysis and univariate analysis.
8.0 Student on attachment
Undergraduate student for work integrated learning student joins SANUMARC
A student, Elizabeth N. Shifiona joined the Desert and
Coastal Agriculture program under SANUMARC for in-
service training from January until June 2017 (6 month
period). The student is a final year Bachelor of Agriculture
(Natural Resource Sciences) at the National University
of Science and Technology, Namibia. In her own words,
Elizabeth expects that by the end of this training, she
should have developed professionally and personally
by working at an institute like SANUMARC. She also
expects to develop inter- personal skills by working with a
team; showing heightened self –confidence and taking
responsibility for own performance than before and
have the capacity to write research reports. To date, she
has learned a lot on mushroom production, gardening,
working independently and on how to identify and
problem and develop it into a research proposal. Apart
from learning during her program, she is also undertaking
her research in fulfilment of her degree requirements at
SANUMARC on mushroom research using fresh sea weeds as a substrate substitute. She is expected to present
the results of her research and experience in a seminar to be held at SANUMARC towards the completion of her
training.
SANUMARC News I 259.0 Visiting research post graduate student
Postgraduate exchange student visits SANUMARC for research on Snoek Parasites in the
Benguela
Mr Irfab Nunkoo a PhD
candidate in the Department
of Biological Sciences at the
University of Cape Town in South
Africa visited SANUMARC as a
research exchange student. His
visit was meant to undertake
studies on snoek parasites in the
Namibian Benguela. Parasites
are a ubiquitous but little
known and largely neglected
component of ecosystems. They
are important regulators of host
populations and contribute to
the maintenance of ecosystem
structure and function. Parasites
are also pervasive in many fisheries worldwide.
Since 2013, Irfab’s research has aimed to improve our understanding of the diversity and
distribution of parasites within marine fish species and communities of the Benguela ecosystem.
His main species of interest is the snoek (Thyrsites atun). Off South Africa, the snoek fishery has
historically been affected by parasites and an initial survey revealed that snoek in South Africa
host 16 parasite taxa, including the notorious Kudoa thyrsites which causes the post-mortem
breakdown of fish tissue. The objective of his visit to SANUMARC in Henties Bay was to collect
data for a comparison of snoek parasitism between the northern and southern Benguela. This
will hopefully allow the determination of whether snoek in the Benguela comprise a single
population or two subpopulations, as has been hypothesized from catch data and life history
characteristics.
2610. SANUMARC social activities
Photographs showing some of the social activities undertaken by researchers, lecturers and
students at Sam Nujoma Campus. Sporting activities were undertaken during the Research
conference which coincided with the UNESCO International day of university sport, where
participants enjoyed different sporting activities.
Staff members and students at the Sam Nujoma Campus enjoying a game of volleyball at
the Henties Bay beach on the UNESCO International day of university sport.
Staff members and students enjoying a game of tug of war during
the UNESCO International day of university sport
SANUMARC News I 27UNAM staff undertaking fishing activities for marine finfish propagation which
is one of the flagship research programmes at SANUMARC. The Centre has
identified Silver Kob (Argyrosomus inodorus) as a potential candidate for
mariculture due to its market acceptance and value, rapid growth and ability to
be spawned in captivity of its related species.
Contact details
Editor in Chief: Dr Samuel Mafwila
Sam Nujoma Marine and Coastal Resources Research Centre
Sam Nujoma Campus
University of Namibia
P. Bag 462
Henties Bay, Namibia
Phone: +264 64 502 644/600
Fax: +264 64 502 608
E-mail: smafwila@unam.na
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