From Deck to Classroom: Strengthening Maritime Education together

Debmarine Namibia proudly reaffirmed its commitment to maritime excellence through a meaningful sponsorship handover to the Namibia Maritime and Fisheries Institute (NAMFI) in Walvis Bay. The event marked a pivotal moment in our ongoing partnership with NAMFI, underscoring our shared dedication to cultivating skilled, safety-conscious professionals for Namibia’s ocean economy.

At the heart of the donation was a fully equipped lifeboat - 9.1 metres long, 3 metres wide, and weighing five tonnes, with a seating capacity of 66. This lifeboat offers students a realistic and hands-on training experience in emergency preparedness, vessel handling, and life-saving procedures. As CEO Willy Mertens noted, “This is not just a collection of items, it is an investment in the future of Namibia’s maritime professionals and the safety of our seas.”

Complementing the lifeboat were second-hand wetsuit jackets, ideal for cold-water survival drills, and a comprehensive selection of maritime publications to enrich NAMFI’s library and training centre. These resources bridge the gap between theory and practice, ensuring students have access to global best practices and up-to-date knowledge.

NAMFI’s Acting Executive Director, Ms Meriam Mwiya, expressed heartfelt appreciation, highlighting the timeliness and impact of the donation. “This contribution will enhance our training capabilities, improve safety standards, and better prepare our students for the challenges of the maritime environment,” she said.

This handover builds on a legacy of support, including a previous lifeboat donation that served NAMFI well for years. The gesture symbolises a continued partnership rooted in shared responsibility, mutual growth, and a collective vision for sustainable development.

As Debmarine Namibia continues to invest in the future of maritime education, we remain committed to empowering the next generation of seafarers with the skills, integrity, and resilience needed to navigate the evolving demands of the ocean economy.

Together, we sail forward towards a safer, smarter, and more sustainable maritime future.