ZIMBABWE – The Kapenta fishing population at Kariba Dam has experienced a 43% decline over the last five years, according to statistics released by the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Rural Development.
The drop in the Kapenta population is attributed to a combination of illegal and unregulated fishing practices and a climate change-induced decline in fish stocks.
Mr. Milton Makumbe, the Director of the Fisheries and Aquaculture Resources Production Department in the Ministry, highlighted the lack of proper regulation in the industry, leading to overfishing and disruption of crucial breeding processes.
He noted that fishermen are encroaching into breeding areas, even during the designated resting period for Kapenta.
“Overfishing is occurring in shallow waters, where the fish are not allowed to be caught, exacerbating the depletion of fish stocks,” he said.
Additionally, Mr. Makumbe revealed that the government has taken measures to address the issue.
He highlighted a regional charter, deployed and enforced since April 8 of the previous year, which aimed to monitor and control fishing activities in shared water bodies.
“The charter employs a tracking system that identifies and monitors Kapenta catches, ensuring compliance with regulations,” he stated.
“Additionally, vessel monitoring systems (VMS) will be fitted on each rig to facilitate real-time monitoring of fishing activities. The VMS, based in Maputo, Mozambique, will relay information to authorities in Zimbabwe and Zambia.”
Meanwhile, in a related development, Malawi’s government is taking a proactive approach in an effort to counter the declining fish stocks.
Minister of Natural Resources and Climate Change, Michael Usi, announced the introduction of mega fish farms where fish farmers will learn modern fish farming techniques.
The model fish mega farm in Kasinthula, Chikwawa, will serve as an educational hub for fish farmers, contributing to increased fish production.
Minister Usi emphasized the economic benefits of the mega fish farms, anticipating an expansion in fish exports, which would attract foreign currency.
The farms, designed for large-scale production, will also address the scarcity of certain fish varieties in local markets, making them more accessible and affordable.
Liked this article? Subscribe to Food Business Africa News, our regular email newsletters with the latest news insights from Africa and the World’s food and agro industry. HERE
