Interest in fish farming soars

Tanaka Mahanya

FISH farming has swiftly moved from the fringes to attract the attention of urban dwellers.

This was revealed by the Agrimarine fish farmer, Barrington Charewa, during a tour of the Zimbabwe Agricultural stands yesterday.

“Before technological advancements, fish farming used to be for those with plenty of land.

“People were used to fish ponds, constructed in an open space but, due to technological advancements, we have adopted canvas or moveable tanks,” he said.

Chirewa said moveable tanks last up to 10 years. 

“It has a stocking density of about 3 000 fish and farmers can breed fish in their backyards or inside the house.”

Chirewa said they have come up with ways of cleaning ponds through smart agriculture.

“We use water from the pond, which allows plant growth since there are enough nutrients excreted by fish.

“Fish farming is a lucrative business that does not require constant supervision and a lot of expenses.  

“Urbanites have now realised the gold in this industry.”

He added:

“Fish farming comes as a poverty-reduction strategy.

“Rearing your own fish for consumption and sale can raise enough money.

“The current economic situation does not want people who sit and watch but those who employ themselves,” he said.