Online Reporter
Mashudu Netsianda
Deputy National Editor
ON the shimmering waters of the Zambezi River, a quiet revolution is unfolding — the Presidential Fisheries Scheme is breathing new life into Binga District, Matabeleland North Province, where fishing rigs donated by President Mnangagwa have become vessels of hope.
Traditional leaders and their communities are casting nets not just for fish, but for opportunity, prosperity and a renewed connection to their ancestral waters.
Since its launch in April 2022, the Presidential Fisheries Scheme has cast a wide net of progress across Binga District, reeling in real gains in food security, job creation and household incomes.
More than just a development initiative, it’s a lifeline that aligns seamlessly with Vision 2030 and the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1), anchoring the Second Republic’s pledge to inclusive, sustainable rural transformation.
In this journey to 2030, no one and no place is left behind.
In separate interviews on the sidelines of the recent commissioning of 37 houses for Nsungwale Village flood victims in Binga, chiefs reported a significant improvement in food security, community nutrition and income generation across their respective areas.
Chief Siabuwa said the fishing rig he received has transformed the livelihoods of villagers in his area.
“This is not just a boat, it is a lifeline. Our people, especially youth and women, are now employed full-time on the rig, and the fish we harvest is not only feeding our community, but is also being sold to markets in Bulawayo, Lupane and Hwange,” he said.
Chief Siabuwa said each of the 17 chiefs who received fishing rigs under the scheme has employed three people, meaning 51 families are directly benefiting, with many more also benefiting indirectly.
“Each person gets five bags of fish per catch, enough to feed their families and pay school fees,” he said.
“I get about 10 bags per catch, with each bag worth US$240. Workers are paid on commission, about US$10 per bag, so the more they catch, the more they earn,” said Chief Siabuwa.
The chiefs have divided the Zambezi River into three fishing basins for structured and sustainable harvesting.
“We have three basins, with the first one stretching from Mlibizi up to Sinamatele and the second one from Sinamatele to Chete Safaris Island. Basin three stretches from Chete to Sengwa,” he said.
Chief Siabuwa said the rig has also helped reduce illegal fishing activities, as people now have a formal, structured way of utilising the Zambezi River’s resources.
Chief Sinakoma, also a recipient of the equipment, said the fishing rig has empowered women in his jurisdiction.
“This project has assisted Binga communities and let’s say if I am employed, I have to look after many people. So, we are assisting our communities through the fisheries project, which has transformed lives in Binga,” he said.
“I thank President Mnangagwa because this is no longer the Binga of the past. Under the Second Republic, we are now being recognised. This is a shining example of President Mnangagwa’s vision of leaving no one and no place behind and his promises are not empty promises.”
Chief Siachilaba said proceeds from fish sales are being used not only to support families, but also to fund the construction of local clinics and schools, reflecting the initiative’s far-reaching impact.
“We are now able to feed our families, pay school fees and enrol our children in colleges and universities because of this project.
“We have formed a women’s co-operative that handles the processing and packaging of the fish. They are now earning incomes to support their families,” he said.
The rigs, which include motorised boats, nets, coolers and safety gear, are part of the Second Republic’s broader strategy to harness the blue economy and promote rural industrialisation through practical support.
Chief Sinansengwe said the introduction of the rigs has strengthened social cohesion, especially among youths who were previously idle.
“As chiefs, through this project, we also assist the elderly in our communities and vulnerable members of society. Before this, many young men were migrating to urban areas in search of work,” he said.
“Now they are staying and building something with their own hands from our local resources.
“We are thankful to the President for recognising that development must start at the grassroots.”
Chief Siachilaba said in addition to economic benefits, some communities have begun using proceeds from fish sales to support the construction of local clinics and schools, showing how the initiative has ripple effects across other sectors.
Minister of State for Matabeleland North Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Richard Moyo, said the programme is a game-changer.
“We are witnessing a model that works, empowering traditional leaders to spearhead development in their communities with real tools, not just promises,” he said.
“We want to thank President Mnangagwa for delivering on his promise to provide chiefs in Binga with the rigs, which is a significant milestone for the district.
“Our traditional leaders may not have farms, but the Zambezi River serves as their farm.”
