Zimbabwe Seeks to Increase Fish Production to Meet Regional Demand

Zimbabwe is working to boost its fish production to meet the Southern African Development Community (SADC) target of 6.7 kilograms per capita. Currently, the country’s fish consumption stands at 3.72 kilograms per capita, prompting efforts to expand the fisheries and aquaculture industry.

To achieve this, the government plans to support existing fish farmers while encouraging new entrants into the sector. Vice Chairperson of the Zimbabwe Fish Producers Association, Sokonia Kaitano, noted that redirecting funds spent on fish imports toward local fish farming could help meet the country’s fish demand.

Kaitano emphasized the role of the fish industry in employment creation and food security, stating that increased production could contribute to poverty reduction and improved nutrition.

For Zimbabwe to meet the SADC target, production must reach 60,000 tonnes of fish. The government’s commitment to the sector includes ongoing policy development, with the Fisheries and Aquaculture Resources Production Department recently hosting a stakeholder consultation meeting on the new Fisheries and Aquaculture Bill. The bill is expected to promote sustainability and economic growth within the industry.