The N$1-billion extension plans for the port of Walvis Bay received no objections from environmentalists, despite earlier fears that they would be shot down. Vocal Walvis Bay environmentalists have been known to object to any new development especially if such a development threatens to interfere with the ecology and natural habitat of birds and marine life.

While some say the Namibia Port Authorities (NamPort) did its homework well, some environmentalists, such as the well-known Keath Wearne, say they have not yet heard or seen the plans. Wearne's interest is on bird life, especially within the lagoon.
NamPort is extending the port of Walvis Bay, deepening the harbour from 12.8 metres to 15 metres, and is also making provision for a waterfront development with leisure, residential and shopping complexes.
“Obviously there will be an Environment Impact Assessment study at which time we will be given time to put forth our comments,” said Wearne.
Documentations of financial and technical studies are expected to be ready by June at which time the port authority will be able to call for funding proposals.
“We anticipate embarking on the tender process by August,” said Sebby Kankondi, Managing Director of NamPort.
The northwards quay will be extended to cover the entire small craft harbour, the fishing quays – covering those occupied by Etosha Fishing and Blue Ocean Products - and the sea rescue base. The new quay will have a capacity of 500 000 TEU.
Provisions have been made for bulk ship loading with an unloader to be installed in the vicinity of the bulk terminal. Additional mobile storage shed are to be installed to cater for the break bulk cargo.
The fluorspar shed is to be moved further to the bulk salt pit. The cold stores will be relocated to the new state-of-the-art fish offloading facilities. These facilities will be constructed north of Tunacor where Etosha Fishing fishmeal stores are located.
“We have realised that the port of Walvis Bay is becoming too small, and that brought the port expansion plan into existence approximately 18 months ago”, said Jerome Mouton, NamPort's executive for marketing and strategic business development.