Sundaymail Editor
Theseus Shambare in KADOMA
ZIMBABWE’S aquaculture industry has earned international recognition for its rapid growth, according to the 15th Malabo Montpellier Forum.
Fisheries and Aquaculture Resources Department director Mr Milton Makumbe said the establishment of a dedicated Government department to spearhead development has been cited as a key factor in achieving the milestone.
He was speaking during an ongoing national aquaculture sector survey results dissemination workshop in Kadoma on Wednesday.
“I am delighted to share with you that our efforts are being recognised internationally,” he said.
“At the recent 15th Malabo Montpellier Forum (last week), Zimbabwe was acknowledged as one of the countries with a fast-growing fisheries and aquaculture sector.
“This recognition signifies that, despite being in our infancy, we are on the right track.”
This international recognition, he said, was only possible through the availability of data from the sector, which highlights the importance of having accurate and up-to-date information on the state of aquaculture in Zimbabwe.
“This recognition signifies that, despite being in our infancy, we are on the right track,” said Mr Makumbe.
The Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) fisheries expert, Mr Paul Mwera, said surveys were key to data-based policy decision-making.
“The data is important to the farmer, development agencies and policymakers. We all need this valuable information to inform our practices,” Mr Mwera said.
FAO, through the Fish for Africa, Caribbean and Pacific project, provided technical and financial support for the survey.
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