ANGOLA – The province of Luanda is poised to significantly enhance its tilapia production, with an expected yield of 800 tons within six months.
This ambitious goal is part of a project spearheaded by the Agrovital cooperative, which has allocated over 77 million kwanzas (US$88K) for the construction of 60 fish tanks.
In a recent interview with Jornal de Angola, Agrovital’s general director, João Joaquim, disclosed that the project is scheduled to commence in the latter half of February 2025.
The initial phase will focus on the municipalities of Viana and Belas, where circular tanks measuring 13 meters in diameter and 1.5 meters in height will be erected to facilitate large-scale fish farming.
This self-funded initiative involves approximately 20 cooperative members and, upon completion, is expected to directly employ 30 young people and provide indirect employment for another 60, with 90 percent of the workforce sourced locally.
While the program’s initial implementation is centered in Luanda, its scope is national, particularly targeting remote provinces such as Malanje, Cuando Cubango, Moxico, and eastern regions where access to fresh fish is limited.
These areas will see the construction of 15 additional tanks dedicated to intensive fish farming.
The project will also feature an Educational Center designed to promote tilapia farming practices across the country.
Joaquim emphasized the importance of training and encouraging families to engage in tilapia farming for self-sustainability and to strengthen the business chain for this product.
Aligned with the national Economic and Social Development Program, the project has been financed with its own capital since 2022, complementing local authorities’ strategic efforts to combat poverty.
Despite state incentives aimed at promoting fishing activities, the cooperative has yet to benefit from these resources.
Joaquim suggested that all sector cooperatives and companies should be registered and have their projects evaluated to streamline the process.
Liked this article? Sign up to receive our email newsletters with the latest news updates and insights from Africa and the World HERE
