Fish for the future: Zim eyes aquaculture potential

ZIMBABWE has immense potential for aquaculture development and vast opportunities exist in the sector where the country is presently producing 33 000 tonnes of fish annually against an estimated national requirement of 60 000.

Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Deputy Minister Davis Marapira said this in his address during the inaugural Fish Fair in Zimbabwe held in Harare recently.

He said the fish fair marks an important milestone for Zimbabwe’s fishing and aquaculture industries.

“Today, we come together to celebrate the untapped potential of our inland waters and the growing importance of fish in the diets of all Zimbabweans.

“As we launch this event, I want to emphasise the importance of incorporating fish into our diets.

“Our theme, ‘Eat Fish Twice a week,’ is more core than just a slogan — it is a call to action,” said Deputy Minister Marapira.

He stressed that fish is a rich source of essential nutrients that can significantly improve nutrition, combat malnutrition, and promote good health — particularly for children, women, and the elderly.

“Zimbabwe has immense potential for aquaculture development. Our country’s fish output averages 33 000 tonnes every year, yet demand is estimated at 60 000 tonnes annually.

“This disparity presents an opportunity for our farmers, entrepreneurs, and communities to come together and build a thriving aquaculture industry,” said Deputy Minister Marapira.

In line with Vision 2030, he said, the fish fair was one of the key steps to transform Zimbabwe into an upper-middle-income society where all citizens would enjoy a better quality of life.

Zimbabwe with an estimated 10 000 dams has abundant natural resources with the potential to meet nutritional needs of the citizens and enhance the livelihoods of fish farmers and fishermen.

“The increased demand for fish will support local fish farmers, create jobs, and encourage sustainable aquaculture practices that safeguard our water resources for future generations,” he said. — BH24