Online Reporter
Theseus Mauruki Shambare
Herald Correspondent
GOVERNMENT is moving to overhaul the regulatory framework governing Zimbabwe’s fisheries and aquaculture sector through a new Fisheries and Aquaculture Bill aimed at reducing compliance costs, improving governance and unlocking investment opportunities in the country’s growing blue economy.
The proposed legislation, which is expected to consolidate existing fisheries laws into a single legal framework, seeks to create a more predictable operating environment for fish farmers, investors and communities while accelerating the expansion of aquaculture production.
According to the 2025 Livestock and Fisheries Production Department Annual Report, the Bill will bring together fragmented fisheries and aquaculture regulations under one framework, improving coordination and easing the process of doing business in the sector.
Stakeholder consultations on the draft Memorandum of Principles concluded in Kariba recently.
The process brought together women, youths, small-scale fish farmers, technical experts from the Attorney-General’s Office and the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO).
Livestock and Fisheries Production Director Mr Milton Makumbe said the new legislation would provide the foundation needed to unlock Zimbabwe’s fisheries potential.
“The Bill will unlock Zimbabwe’s vast potential, leveraging over 10 000 water bodies nationwide to drive fisheries and aquaculture expansion and the sector’s contribution to national food security and rural development,” said Mr Makumbe.
He said the lack of a dedicated legal framework had slowed growth of the industry by creating regulatory challenges and limiting investment.
“The absence of a clear regulatory framework, limited investment and high compliance costs have long hindered growth in the sector,” he said.
“The new Bill is expected to address these challenges by streamlining governance, promoting sustainable use of water resources and fostering inclusivity.”
The report notes that the proposed law will establish a modern and inclusive regulatory framework that supports commercialisation, attracts private sector participation and ensures sustainable utilisation of aquatic resources.
The legislation also seeks to expand participation of women, youths and marginalised groups by removing barriers that have limited their involvement in fisheries and aquaculture development.
The Bill is part of Government’s broader strategy to transform aquaculture into a US$2.37 billion industry, with consultations highlighting the need for fiscal and regulatory incentives to attract investment.
Among the proposed incentives are VAT exemptions on fish and fish products, duty waivers on specialised aquaculture equipment, tax holidays for new commercial aquaculture projects, reduced lake lease fees, lower registration charges for contractors and traders, streamlined access to land and water resources, and improved access to finance for women and youth investors.
The report says the new framework will also support investment in critical infrastructure such as hatcheries, fish feed production facilities, cold-chain systems and export-oriented enterprises.
It is also expected to improve traceability and certification systems required for Zimbabwean fish products to access premium international markets.
The proposed legislation comes as Zimbabwe continues expanding its fisheries sector, with Government and private players increasing production through commercial aquaculture and community-based fisheries programmes.
During the 2024-25 season, aquaculture production increased by 64,68 percent from 4 986,03 tonnes to 8 211,05 tonnes, driven by growth in Nile tilapia and African catfish production.
As consultations concluded, Government said the Bill would provide a critical foundation for fully harnessing the country’s water resources while creating opportunities for farmers, investors and communities.
The report says the Fisheries and Aquaculture Bill will position Zimbabwe to unlock its fisheries potential by consolidating regulations, reducing investment barriers and supporting the country’s Vision 2030 development agenda.
