NEW: Youth fish farming training programme takes off

Online Reporter

IN a boost to the country’s fish farming industry, a comprehensive training programme for farmers is set to commence in Mashonaland East province next week.

The Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development has partnered with the Zimbabwe Young Farmers Union Trust (ZYFT) to implement the programme.

Director in the ministry’s Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture Resources Mr Milton Makumbe said the training programme is part of Government’s efforts to increase fish production and enhance national food security.

“The programme will see about 21 000 farmers across the country benefiting from expert guidance and skills transfer,” he said.

“Mashonaland East province has been selected as the inaugural host for the programme, which kicks off next week in Hwedza.

“The programme will be rolled out to other provinces, with the aim of empowering farmers with the knowledge and skills necessary to establish and manage successful fish farming enterprises.”

The training is a critical component of the Government’s plan to increase fish production and reduce the country’s reliance on imports.

“With the country’s natural water sources dwindling due to climate change, fish farming is seen as a vital alternative source of protein for the nation,” said Mr Makumbe.

ZYFT president Mr Josephat Tanga said youths are eager to participate in the programme.

“Each of the 210 constituencies will have a ZYFT training centre where members will receive training and refresher courses,” he said.

“The Trust will also establish one fingerling hub per district, totalling 72 hubs nationwide.

“From the fish production-trained farmers, two per district (144 in total) youth farmers will be selected for further training on establishing breeding sites.”