RWANDA – Six tilapia hatcheries were certified by RAB and Orora Wihaze after meeting the rigorous SOP requirements for hatchery biosecurity. 

These hatcheries include FINE FISH LTD and FRE FISH LTD in Rwamagana District, GISHANDA FISH FARM LTD in Kayonza District, LAKESIDE FISH FARM LTD in Bugesera District, KIVU CHOICE LTD in Gisagara District, and KIVU TILAPIA FARM LTD in Rusizi District.

At the certification ceremony, Dr. Jean Claude Ndorimana, Director General of Animal Resources Development at the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources, called on fish investors to continue improving hatchery operations. 

He noted that enhancing fingerling production is crucial for increasing overall fish output in Rwanda.

In related news, the Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Development Board (RAB), in collaboration with experts from Orora Wihaze and WorldFish, has introduced Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for tilapia hatcheries as part of the Technologies for African Agricultural Transformation (TAAT) initiative. 

This development is aimed at increasing fish production in the country, as six new tilapia hatcheries have recently received certification.

RAB officials emphasized that the implementation of these SOPs marks a significant step towards enhancing Rwanda’s aquaculture industry. 

This initiative aligns with the country’s broader objective of producing 80,000 metric tons of fish by 2035, a target set out in the National Aquaculture Strategy. 

However, reaching this ambitious goal will require addressing various challenges, particularly the need for intensified production methods that come with increased disease risks.

RAB highlighted the importance of implementing effective management and control measures to overcome these challenges, ensuring that the growth of the aquaculture sector remains sustainable and that the market for aquaculture products continues to develop.

Adopting the SOPs is expected to improve the quality and reliability of hatchery production, contributing to a more sustainable and commercially viable aquaculture sector. 

The Rwandan tilapia hatchery industry has seen significant growth, expanding from a single government-run facility to a network of 12 private hatcheries that now supply fingerlings to aquaculture farmers across the country.

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