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, Mrewa District, Mashonaland East Province, Friday, the 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.
Marapira 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.
Dep minister 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.
Furthermore, “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”, Dep Minister 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 .
Deputy Minister Marapira Urged youths to shun Drugs and Embrace Aquaculture among other sustainable activities and projects.
Deputy Minister 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 event, he 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,” said Deputy Minister Marapira. “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.”
Marapira also 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.
Marapira 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.
The 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.