Fisheries, acquaculture key to food and nutrition security

Patience Maturure

Agriculture Reporter

THE fisheries and aquaculture sector is crucial for food security, nutrition and livelihoods, especially in rural areas, a senior official has said.

Officiating at a validation workshop on alignment of national fisheries and aquaculture strategies and agricultural investment in Harare on Wednesday, Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Deputy Minister, Davis Marapira, said the sector contributed significantly to the national economy, food sovereignty and poverty reduction.

“With over 10 700 dams, the country has substantial potential to expand its fisheries and aquaculture industry, offering a promising avenue for growth.

“We are also investing in dam construction as a key strategy to mitigate the impact of climate change. Examples of successful dam projects include the Kunzvi Dam and Gwayi-Shangani Dam, which demonstrate our commitment to harnessing water resources and promoting sustainable development,” he said.

Dep Minister Marapira said the sector was experiencing challenges, affecting production.

“The sector faces challenges like overfishing, habitat degradation, and climate change, requiring effective management and sustainable development,” he said.

The Deputy Minister said Government had already taken steps to reduce the impact of climate change on the agriculture sector.

“Under the Rural Development 8.0 flagship programme, initiatives such as drilling boreholes in every village have been implemented to enhance water security and support vulnerable communities.

“Our target is to drill 35 000 boreholes, ensuring sustainable access to clean water and promoting resilience in the face of climate change. For every borehole, we are establishing two fishponds, further enhancing food security and livelihood opportunities for our communities,” he said.

Dep Minister Marapira emphasised that in 2021, the Ministry received a mandate to lead fisheries and aquaculture to improve rural lives and build a resilient future.

The fisheries and aquaculture sector is projected to grow into a US$1 billion economy.