Online Reporter
Theseus Mauruki Shambare
Zimpapers Correspondent
ZIMBABWE is set to benefit from increased investment in fisheries, aquaculture and regional fish trade following the unveiling of a new US$5,25 million Southern African Development Community blue economy programme.
The programme, which is aimed at transforming the region’s fisheries sector, will run from 2026 to 2029 and was announced during the two-day 8th PROFISHBLUE project steering technical committee meeting currently underway in Harare, where regional partners are reviewing progress and mapping the next phase of fisheries governance reforms.
Speaking during the opening session, SADC Secretariat senior programme officer for natural resources and wildlife, Ms Ndapanda Kanime, said the new initiative marked a major milestone in advancing sustainable fisheries management and regional integration.
“I am glad to inform you that the Mozambique Channel project has been approved with a total budget of US$5,25 million, which is expected to be implemented from 2026 to 2029,” she said.
Ms Kanime said the approval of the new programme signalled continuity of ongoing reforms under the PROFISHBLUE initiative, which is now entering its transition phase.
“This meeting is being held in the extended period of the project, not because it failed to achieve its intended outcomes, but on account of a smooth transition to the new programme,” she said. She said the African Development Bank was finalising an addendum to ensure an orderly closure and handover of the current project.
“The PROFISHBLUE project will close on the 30th of November 2026, therefore allowing a transition to the new programme,” she said.
Ms Kanime said the initiative was central to strengthening governance systems, improving cooperation among member states and unlocking sustainable blue economy trade corridors.
“The PROFISHBLUE project was designed to promote improved fisheries governance, enhance regional cooperation, and facilitate the development of sustainable blue economy trade corridors across the Southern African region,” she said.
She said that the meeting served as a critical platform for accountability and shared planning among member states and development partners.
“This meeting also serves as a vital platform for accountability, knowledge sharing and strategic planning as we work together towards realising the full potential of the blue economy for our region,” she said.
“The SADC Secretariat greatly appreciates the continued support and collaboration of member states, the African Development Bank, and implementing partners including FAO, UNIDO, WorldFish and WWF.”
Zimbabwe, as host of the regional meeting, is expected to benefit through strengthened fisheries governance, expanded aquaculture investment and improved access to regional markets.
The director of Livestock and Fisheries Production, Mr Milton Makumbe, said Zimbabwe was already seeing progress under the regional programme.
“The programme for improving fisheries development and the blue economy across the region has made notable progress since implementation began,” he said. He said key interventions included improved institutional capacity, strengthened cross-border trade systems and enhanced enforcement mechanisms to combat illegal fishing. “These interventions are contributing to building a more integrated and secure fisheries sector within the region,” he said.
PROFISHBLUE Project Coordinator Dr Alexander Kefi praised Zimbabwe for its commitment to implementing the programme and driving sector transformation.
“Zimbabwe has embraced this project in a very strong way, and we are seeing real transformation in the fisheries and aquaculture sector as a result of this engagement,” said Dr Kefi.
