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Namibia: Kelp Blue Harvests Over 200 Tonnes of Kelp in Eco-Driven Push for Ocean and Agricultural Regeneration

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Namibia: Kelp Blue Harvests Over 200 Tonnes of Kelp in Eco-Driven Push for Ocean and Agricultural Regeneration
Fast-growing kelp forests, Namibia

(3 Minutes Read)

Kelp Blue, a marine restoration company operating off the coast of Lüderitz, Namibia, has successfully harvested over 200 tonnes of giant kelp (Macrocystis pyrifera) in 2025, under its long-term vision of ecological and economic sustainability.

The company holds a 15-year commercial license to cultivate kelp across a vast 6,400-hectare offshore concession. Founder and CEO Daniel Hooft emphasized that their harvesting method prioritizes the long-term health of marine ecosystems. “We only trim the canopy of our underwater forests, allowing the rest of the plant to remain intact. This ensures healthy regrowth while contributing to carbon capture and enhancing marine biodiversity,” Hooft explained.

The impact of Kelp Blue’s underwater farming is already evident. According to Hooft, within just five months of planting, their kelp forests have led to dramatic increases in marine life. “We’re seeing biodiversity levels triple or even quadruple in our kelp farms,” he said. The dense underwater forests are also serving as critical nursery zones for local fish populations. Environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis has detected seasonal surges in species such as hake and sardines, indicating that these areas are functioning as effective breeding grounds.

“This kind of ecosystem creates safe havens for fish eggs, boosting survival rates by as much as a hundredfold,” Hooft added. The presence of larger marine species is also increasing. “Ocean sunfish (mola mola) are frequently spotted feeding on jellyfish in our kelp zones, and dolphins are thriving here. These forests offer them shelter, even from dangerous predators like orcas,” he said.

Sharks, too, appear to be benefiting. An increased count of mermaids’ purses—shark egg sacs—suggests the kelp forests provide ideal conditions for reproduction. “The forests give sharks secure places to attach their egg sacs, supporting the next generation,” said Hooft.

The harvested kelp isn’t just helping the ocean. Once collected, it is processed into a biostimulant product called Stimblue+, which is designed to promote regenerative agriculture. “Stimblue+ enhances crop yield and quality, while revitalizing soil health,” said Hooft.

In addition to farming and product development, Kelp Blue tracks the broader benefits of its work through its non-profit arm, the Kelp Forest Foundation. The foundation measures key ecosystem services including carbon sequestration, biodiversity, and socio-economic impact through job creation. “Our mission extends beyond cultivation. We are actively working to conserve and restore kelp forests globally,” said Hooft.

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 The company also invests in local education through its Lüderitz Blue School, an initiative aimed at cultivating a new generation of marine stewards. “We’re raising future ocean custodians—young leaders who understand the value and responsibility of protecting our marine ecosystems,” said Hooft.