Story by Raymond Sithole
The Fisheries and Aquaculture Bill public hearings held in Bulawayo this Friday brought optimism to the fisheries sector, with the bill expected to promote its growth from the grassroots.
Stakeholders in aquaculture and fisheries have lauded the bill saying it enables a comprehensive framework for sustainable fisheries and aquatic resource management.
“The introduction of the Bill has come with happiness to us since we are going to be protected by the law in our fishing and aquatic business and this helps us to have enough education on how to expand our business,” said a farmer.
“With the introduction of the Fisheries and Aquaculture Bill we are pleading for the relevant ministry to provide us with wholesalers where we can buy food to feed fish,” said another farmer.
“The introduction of the Bill will enhance farmers to acquire licence so that they will operate without fear and the bill will also deter poaching activities,” added a farmer.
In a significant commitment to bolstering the country’s fisheries and aquaculture sector, the government continues to provide vital support to fish farmers.
“We will ensure the reliable supply of food for feeding fish to optimise the healthy growth of fish. We will offer education and training programmes to equip our farmers with the latest knowledge and establish fingerling hubs to provide fingerlings to farmers which are free from diseases,” said Fisheries and Aquaculture Department director, Milton Tinashe Makumbe.
The new Bill is expected to provide regulations that will propel the growth of the fisheries and aquaculture sector while contributing towards economic development.
