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Elton Manguwo
Five fingerling production centres are being upgraded to supply 60 percent of requirements for the Presidential Community Fisheries Programme.
Speaking recently Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development permanent secretary, Professor Obert Jiri said breeding sites are functioning at only 41 percent of their capacity, yielding 6,242,250 fingerlings out of a potential production of 15,225,000.
“By operating at just over a third of their potential, these breeding sites are unable to fully meet the growing demand for fingerlings, which are essential for sustaining fish populations and supporting local fisheries,” said Professor Jiri.
Under the presidential fisheries scheme 1 200 dams would see fish introduced with over 50 000 fingerlings expected to be released in each dam by next year.
“By maximising production at existing sites, the country can better support its fisheries sector and contribute to food security and economic development,” said Professor Jiri expressing how this strategic move will contribute to the overall success of the programme and bolster food security in the region.
This initiative was designed to enhance local fish farming capabilities, ensuring a steady supply of fingerlings while reducing reliance on external sources.
The budget allocated for fisheries was set at US$7 million. This funding was crucial for various initiatives aimed at enhancing the sustainability and productivity of the fisheries sector.
“The allocation will support activities such as fish stock management, habitat restoration and the development of fishing infrastructure,” said Professor Jiri.
“The Government wanted to ensure a robust and resilient fisheries industry that could meet both local demand and contribute to economic growth in the region.
The country currently faces a fish demand of 60,000 tonnes per year, but the current output stands at only 15,000 tonnes.
“By focusing our efforts and resources on growing local fish production, we can develop a thriving sector that provides an alternative protein source to enhance food security,” said Professor Jiri.
The development came on the back of Government initiatives that are aimed at reducing imports and supporting local producers.
By prioritising local industries, the Government aimed to create a more self-sufficient and resilient economy and those initiatives not only enhanced economic growth but also contributed to sustainable production and food security.
The call comes at the backdrop of aquaculture producers bemoaning the high price of good quality fingerlings and feed that negatively impacted the cost of production locally.
Zimbabwe Fish Producers Association chairman Mr Garikai Munatsirei highlighted the high costs associated with fish farming not only affect the profitability of fish farms but also lead to increased prices for consumers. This made it challenging for many people to afford locally produced fish.
Online Reporter