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Theseus Shambare
HUNDREDS of people gathered in Harare on Saturday for a first-ever Zimbabwe Fish Fair, meant to encourage the consumption of fish, emphasising its importance for a healthier nation.
The fish fair was running under the theme, “Eat Fish Twice a Week” and is expected to be an annual event.
Officially launching the event, Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Deputy Minister Davis Marapira said the theme was “more than a slogan – it is a call to action.”
Globally, more than 3,1 billion people rely on fish for at least 20 percent of their total animal protein intake and an additional 1,3 billion depend on it for 15 percent of their needs.
Zimbabwe, with its approximately 10 000 dams, has abundant natural resources with the potential to meet the nutritional needs of people, yet the country’s per capita fish consumption remains low at just 3,2 kg, compared to the SADC average of 6 kg.
To address this anomaly, the Government, through the Fish for Africa, the Caribbean and the Pacific (FISH4ACP) programme funded by the European Union and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development is now rolling out awareness campaigns to conscientise the population on the key role of fish in nutrition security.
“Fish is a rich source of essential nutrients that can significantly improve nutrition, combat malnutrition and promote good health.
“Our country’s fish output averages 33 000 metric 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.
The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) assured support for Zimbabwe’s aquaculture sector.
“FAO remains steadfast in its support for Zimbabwe’s aquaculture sector, ensuring that initiatives led by the Government create lasting impacts.
“Together, we can transform aquatic food systems into vibrant, sustainable engines for economic growth, improved nutrition and environmental resilience,” said Dr Patrice Talla, FAO Sub Regional Coordinator for Southern Africa.
Zimbabwe Fisheries Association chairperson Garikai Munatsirei said the country is set to transform if the programmes laid are embraced.
“Various programmes underway right now in Zimbabwe are set to increase contribution of the fisheries sector including the Fish4ACP programme, Command Fisheries, the Agricultural Food Systems Transformation Strategy programme targeting all 35 000 villages in Zimbabwe.
“All these programmes overlaid on a sound governance system should increase fish production in Zimbabwe to over 60 000 tonnes per year,” said Mr Munatsirei.
The Fair saw industry stakeholders come together, discuss challenges, interact with government representatives and explore issues such as production, markets, raw materials, equipment, education, technology and industry strategies.
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Tinaye Agere
Online Reporter