By Edward Makuzva
Deputy Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Rural Development, Hon Davis Marapira has called on young people to desist from drug and substance abuse, urging them to channel their energy into productive ventures such as aquaculture.
Speaking at a recent Aquaculture event in Macheke, Hon Marapira emphasized that youth engagement in economic activities like fish farming could transform their lives and contribute to national development.
“Youths are the backbone of our nation, and we cannot afford to lose them to drugs. Instead of wasting time on harmful substances, I encourage young people to take advantage of aquaculture programs that offer real opportunities for financial independence and food security,” he said.
He highlighted the government’s commitment to supporting youth-driven initiatives in aquaculture through training, funding, and access to markets.
By participating in fish farming, he noted, young people can create employment, boost local economies, and secure a sustainable future for themselves and their communities.
The Deputy Minister urged stakeholders, including parents, schools, and community leaders, to work together in promoting positive alternatives to drug abuse.
“Aquaculture is not just about farming fish; it’s about building a future. Our youth must make the right choices and invest their time in ventures that bring growth and prosperity,” he added.
His message was met with widespread support, with many young people expressing interest in joining aquaculture programs as a step toward a brighter and more productive future.
Many participants, who once struggled with limited income opportunities, said they now enjoy financial stability and improved living conditions thanks to the program.
“This program has been a life-changer,” said one beneficiary. “Before, I had no steady source of income, but now, through fish farming, I can provide for my family and even send my children to school.”
The program has not only created jobs but also equipped individuals with essential skills in sustainable fish farming, improving food security and boosting local economies. Another participant shared, “I never imagined I could run a successful fish farm, but with the training and support I received, I now have a thriving business.”, said Joseph Kahuni.
With increased access to resources, technical assistance, and markets, aquaculture beneficiaries are seeing tangible improvements in their quality of life. Many have been able to expand their operations, reinvest in their businesses, and contribute to their communities.
The success of the program demonstrates the power of aquaculture in driving economic growth, alleviating poverty, and ensuring a sustainable food supply for future generations. Beneficiaries continue to praise the initiative for giving them a new sense of hope and empowerment.
With an increasing global shift towards healthier diets, fish consumption in Zimbabwe and across Africa is rising. Experts predict that the demand for fish protein will continue to grow, creating lucrative opportunities for fish farmers, processors, and exporters.
Economic analysts reaveled that if the right policies are implemented, the industry could surpass the US$1 billion target. “There is a huge untapped potential in Zimbabwe’s fisheries sector. With proper support, we can significantly increase production and exports, creating thousands of jobs.
Meanwhile, private sector investments have also surged, with local and international investors keen on tapping into the industry’s potential. Companies are investing in large-scale fish farming, modern hatcheries, and advanced processing plants to meet growing domestic and regional demand.
As Zimbabwe pushes forward with its Vision 2030 agenda, the fisheries sector is poised to become a key driver of economic growth.
With strong government backing, private sector participation, and increasing consumer demand, the US$1 billion milestone is within reach.
