Story by Tendai Munengwa
ZIMBABWE’s Presidential Fisheries Programme has recorded a 20 percent increase in output over the past five years, with nearly 10 million fingerlings distributed nationwide as government intensifies efforts to improve food security, nutrition and rural incomes.
Launched in 2021 by President Emmerson Mnangagwa, the programme has expanded fish farming at household, community and institutional levels, enabling thousands of beneficiaries to participate in aquaculture as a livelihood activity.
The initiative has also been integrated into learning institutions under the Heritage-Based Curriculum, where it is being used to support practical skills development. Glen View 2 High School is among schools implementing fisheries projects as part of hands-on learning.
School head Mr Owen Nhire said the programme would strengthen education outcomes while equipping learners with practical skills.
“We are optimistic that this fisheries project will strengthen our school curriculum. We have over 2 000 pupils, including 17 learners in special classes who will be equipped with skills that enable them to be self-reliant after completing school,” he said.
The School Development Committee (SDC) welcomed the initiative, citing its potential to ease fundraising pressures while benefiting learners.
Glen View 2 High School SDC Chairperson, Mr Webster Musingarimi, said the programme will have a positive financial impact on the school.
“The introduction of the fisheries scheme to urban schools is a welcome development that will cushion fundraising pressures. Our children will benefit immensely, and we thank President Mnangagwa for initiating such empowerment programmes,” he said.
SDC Vice Chairperson Mrs Matilda Makauyo encouraged women to take advantage of the programme.
“I urge women to embrace this project and utilise small spaces in their backyards to venture into fish farming, which can generate additional income for families,” she said.
Speaking to ZBC News, Director of Fisheries and Aquaculture in the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, Mr Milton Makombe, outlined the progress achieved since the programme’s launch.
“There has been significant progress over the past five years. About 10 million fingerlings have been distributed to empower communities to engage in fish farming. In terms of infrastructure, completed fishponds have increased from 10 000 in 2022 to 13 000. Fish production has risen from 27 000 metric tonnes to over 33 000 metric tonnes, against a national target of 60 000 tonnes,” he said.
Mr Makombe added that the growth represents a 20 percent increase in production volumes, contributing to improved food and nutritional security.
To support the Presidential Fisheries Programme, government has established breeding stations with the capacity to produce more than 10 million fingerlings per year, supporting over 35 000 Village Business Units involved in fish farming nationwide.
