Online Reporter
Judith Phiri, Sunday News Reporter
FOUR dams in Tsholotsho have been stocked with 48 000 fingerlings under the Presidential Community Fisheries Scheme to enhance nutrition, livelihood and economic opportunities in the district
This initiative comes at a time when Zimbabwe’s fisheries sector has achieved a production level of approximately 31 296 tonnes of fish, with 26 310 tonnes sourced from dam fisheries.
While this marks a notable accomplishment for the country, it still seeks to meet the national demand of 60 000 tonnes.
In a speech read on behalf of the Deputy Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Water and Rural Development Davis Marapira, by Fisheries and Aquaculture Resources Department Director, Mr Milton Makumbe at Tshamakiwa Dam in Ward 16 in Tsholotsho yesterday, he said the dam stocking ceremony was a significant milestone in the collective journey towards Vision 2030.
“This initiative is more than just introducing fish into the water- it is an investment in food security, economic empowerment and community development. It represents our commitment to creating sustainable livelihoods and ensuring that our natural resources benefit generations to come,” he said.
“Today, we are proud to announce that 48 000 fingerlings are being stocked across four dams- Tshamakiwa, Jipi, Mathe and Mhunkandume. This step will ensure that these water bodies become key resources for nutrition, livelihood and economic opportunity.”
He said stocking the four dams will yield an average output of 45 tonnes of fish per year, which was substantial contribution that will further bolster the fish production capacity of the country, bringing it closer to meeting the national demand of 60 000 metric tonnes of fish production.
Deputy Minister Marapira said the Presidential Community Fisheries Scheme, launched under the visionary leadership of President Mnangagwa was a key driver in Zimbabwe’s economic development and food security strategy.
“The scheme aims to stock 1 200 dams across the country, ensuring that communities in all provinces benefit from sustainable fisheries,” he said.
“I am pleased to announce that, to date, 70 dams have been stocked under the Presidential Community Fisheries Scheme. This achievement is a testament to our dedication to improving the lives of our citizens.”
He said to reach the target, they have also engaged the private sector in a partnership that has yielded significant results.
The Deputy Minister acknowledged the invaluable contributions of organisations such as Radco, who have generously donated 40 000 fingerlings to stock the four dams.
“This remarkable gesture demonstrates their commitment to the Presidential Community Fisheries Scheme and our shared vision for a prosperous Zimbabwe,” he said.
He said stocking of the four dams was part of the nationwide programme that seeks to unlock the full potential of Zimbabwe’s vast water resources.
Deputy Minister Marapira said through this initiative, they are expanding access to fisheries, creating employment opportunities, and increasing fish consumption at the household level.
“Tsholotsho is a place of resilience, where communities have long depended on the land for their sustenance.
Today, we take a step further—ensuring that these dams become sources of livelihood, nutrition, and economic opportunity.
“Today’s theme, “Transforming Livelihoods through Sustainable and Inclusive Aquaculture,” reflects our commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that no community is left behind,” he said.
However, he said the success of the initiative depends on collective responsibility, while he called upon traditional leaders, local authorities, and all stakeholders to actively participate in ensuring the sustainability of fish farming.
The Deputy Minister said the project belongs to all not just as beneficiaries but as custodians of this valuable resource.
He said to ensure the long-term sustainability of the initiative, the formation of a Dam Committee responsible for overseeing sustainable fishing activities was encouraged.
“The Department of Fisheries will provide training and work closely with traditional leaders and the district council to ensure effective governance and resource management. This structure will strengthen our fisheries sector and promote long-term success,” he said.
Deputy Minister Marapira said the Government’s commitment to leaving no one and no place behind was clearly reflected in the rollout of the Presidential Community Fisheries Scheme across all districts.
He assured that his Ministry, through the Fisheries and Aquaculture Resources Production Department, remains dedicated to providing technical support and guidance to all farmers, especially those new to fish farming.
Minister of State for Matabeleland North Provincial Affairs and Devolution Cde Richard Moyo who was represented by a senior director in his office Mr Tapera Mugoriya, said the development was a welcome move contributing to food security in the province.
National Housing and Social Amenities Deputy Minister Musa Ncube who is also Tsholotsho South Member of Parliament expressed her gratitude for the programme being rolled out under the leadership of President Mnangagwa leading to massive development and economic development.
Chief Mahlathini called on the villagers to work together to ensure the success of the project, stating that it will go a long way to empower the communities as well as the youth so that they move away from doing drugs.
