By Edward Makuzva
The fish industry is on a steady growth trajectory and is expected to generate over US$1 billion by 2030, according to Deputy Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Rural Development, Davis Marapira.
Speaking at a fisheries pond stocking at Macheke, Murewa District, Mashonaland East Province, Friday, Deputy Minister Marapira highlighted the sector’s critical role in food security, employment creation, and economic development.
“The government is committed to supporting the fisheries industry through infrastructure development, investment incentives, and capacity-building programs for small-scale fish farmers. We aim to transform the industry into a billion-dollar economy by 2030,” he said.
He highlighted that the government has already introduced several initiatives to boost fish production, including the Command Fisheries Program, which provides funding and technical support to small-scale fish farmers.
Hon Marapira emphasized that expanding aquaculture, improving cold-chain logistics, and promoting exports are key strategies to achieve this ambitious target.
He reaveled that despite the optimism, challenges such as climate change, illegal fishing, and inadequate infrastructure remain obstacles to growth. However, the government has pledged to address these issues through sustainable fisheries management and increased investment in research and technology.
“My ministry is committed to the President, His Excellence Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa’s
Vision on transforming our nation into a prosperous and empowered upper middle income society.
“The Rural Development Programme 8.0. is a testament to this commitment, aiming to establish gardens, fish ponds and borehole in every village.
“Today, we take a crucial step forward in this journey, with the government of Zimbabwe stocking 24 fish ponds with 32 000 unsexed fingerlings in this district, and additionally 10 000 in Mudzi District.
“This initiative is just more than a project – it is a symbol of hope, a beacon of opportunity and a,testament to our collective resolve to build a brighter future for ourselves and our children”, Hon Marapira explained.
The event was celebrated under the theme “Transforming Livelihoods Through Sustainable And Inclusive Aquaculture”
The aquaculture programme has 22 beneficiaries in the district.
