Staff Reporter
The fisheries sector has received a significant boost with the launch of a fingerlings holding and distribution hub at Maponga Farm in Masvingo Province.
This initiative, spearheaded by the Government in partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) under the Fish for African, Caribbean, and Pacific Countries Project, aims to enhance fish production and empower local farmers.
Speaking at the launch yesterday, Masvingo Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister Ezra Chadzamira highlighted the project’s success in the province.
“Masvingo boasts 38 main dams, 89 fishing cooperatives, and 4,289 community ponds. This year, we have stocked seven small dams with 65,500 fingerlings and 31,940 fingerlings in ponds under the Presidential Community Fisheries Program. These efforts are building a vibrant fishing industry that strengthens food and nutrition security,” he said.
Fisheries and Aquaculture Resources Department Director Milton Makumbe highlighted the vital role of the newly launched hub in transforming livelihoods.
“This hub represents a significant milestone in overcoming the challenges faced by fish farmers. Its establishment is a cornerstone in advancing the growth of the fisheries sector, which is integral to achieving our national vision for sustainable development,” he noted.
FAO pledged its continued support in making communities food secure.
“Today marks a milestone for Masvingo. We are proud to work with the government to ensure this region thrives,” said an FAO representative.
For local fish farmers, the hub represents a game changer.
“Accessing quality fingerlings has always been a challenge for me. This project, launched right here at my homestead, is going to transform how we operate. As a farmer field school centre, we will also learn about fish breeding and farming,” said Rudo Maponga, a fish farmer.
Another farmer shared similar sentiments.
“We often travelled long distances to buy fingerlings, often settling for whatever was available. Now, we can breed and sell quality fingerlings locally, which will drive growth.”
Government has set an ambitious target for the fisheries sector to contribute $1 billion to the economy by 2030.
This initiative aligns with the Agriculture 8.0 model, which seeks to transform rural livelihoods.
By addressing long-standing challenges in fish farming, the fingerlings hub is poised to uplift grassroots communities and contribute to the nation’s economic growth.
