Fish production increases
By YANDE KAPEYALUSAKA Province Minister, Charles Shawa says the country’s annual fish production has hit 70,000 tonnes due to a number of policy interventions introduced by President Banda’s administration.
Mr Shawa cited creation of the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries, one demonstration of Government’s commitment to the development of the industry.
He said this in Kafue yesterday when he officiated at the opening of a new hostel for students at Kasaka Fisheries Training Institute.
Mr Shawa said there is need to increase funding to the fisheries sector, as commercial fish farming is becoming a dominant economic activity in the country.
“Appreciably, Government’s efforts in this regard had been well received by the private sector which has continued to invest significantly in fish farming, marketing and distribution, including the manufacturing of fishing nets and boats.
“Additionally, Government is restocking the lakes and rivers countrywide with fish to elevate fishing as an important occupation and source of not only income, but nutrition for the people,” he said.
Mr Shawa said in view of the strategic position the fishing industry now occupies in the economy, the role of fisheries training institutions such as Kasaka had become crucially important.
The minister noted that since inception in 1976, the institution has produced skilled manpower that has contributed positively to the fish industry.
Mr Shawa urged students who graduate from the institute to consider forming co-operatives.
“You can approach institutions such as the Citizens’ Economic Empowerment Commission for capital to enable you embark on fish farming projects.
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