By Lumbiwe Mwanza
THE future of Zambia’s aquaculture sector is bleak as the fish deficits remain high, Zambia Aquaculture Cooperative Society Secretary General Ferdinand Simfukwe has observed.
Aquaculture contributes about 3.2 percent to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and provides significant jobs in rural areas but as at last year, May, 2022, Zambia had a fish deficit of 75,000 metric tonnes.
But speaking to The Scoop yesterday, Mr. Simfukwe acknowledges that the Government is making strides in ensuring that fish deficit challenges are addressed but admits that there is need to do more in promoting sustainable aquaculture, reducing post-harvest losses, and facilitating fish trade.
He says fish deserves more attention in food and nutrition policies due to its prominence not only in Zambia, but also in the African food basket.
He adds that the agenda of promoting good aqua practices for more citizens to venture into aqua productions should be championed.
