By Tamandani Mulilima
Minister of Natural Resources Patricia Wiskies says the government is committed to investing in the fisheries and aquaculture sector to enhance food security, job creation and economic growth.
Wiskies made the remarks on Tuesday after touring aquaculture sites at Tchenachena in Rumphi District, Mzuzu Aquaculture Centre and Mzuzu Fish Feed Mill at Luwinga in Mzuzu.
She described aquaculture as a potential “gold mine” that remains largely untapped, stressing the need for increased investment and sustainable management.
“Aquaculture has the potential to contribute to food security and transform our economy besides creating employment opportunities. This is the next ‘gold mine’ if we are to invest and manage it sustainably,” she said.
Wiskies commended staff at Mzuzu Aquaculture Centre for their commitment and technical expertise in supporting fish farmers across the region.She also emphasised the importance of locally produced fish feed in reducing production costs and improving yields among farmers.
Director of Fisheries in the Ministry of Natural Resources, Dr. Hastings Zidana, said the department aims to produce 100,000 metric tonnes of fish annually to meet growing demand.
“Malawi 2063 recognises fisheries and aquaculture as one of the key sectors in driving socio-economic development, food security and wealth creation,” said Zidana.
The Mzuzu Aquaculture Centre continues to play a key role by providing quality fingerlings and technical support to farmers in line with the government’s vision of developing a sustainable blue economy.
