Government intensifies fish ban in Isoka

Government has intensified the enforcement of the annual fishing ban in Isoka District of Muchinga Province following the seizure of illegal fish during routine patrols conducted by the Department of Fisheries and livestock .

Isoka District Fisheries and Livestock Coordinator, Motive Katema has confirmed the development in an interview with the Zambia News and Information Services (ZANIS), saying on January 10, 2026, officers seized 10 kilogrammes of assorted dry fish from three individuals found trading of fish during the fishing ban period.

The media reports that Mr Katema said the fishing ban, which runs from December 1, 2025 to February 28, 2026, is aimed at allowing fish to breed effectively during the peak breeding period.

“This is the critical time when fish breed, and the ban is meant to protect the resource so that fishing remains sustainable for both the present and future generations,” Mr Katema said.

He noted that while fishing remains one of the major economic activities in the district, the level of resistance to the ban has so far been minimal.

“Fishing is a source of income for many households, so some challenges are expected, but so far we have recorded very little resistance from the community,” he said.

Mr Katema explained that the department has adopted a service-oriented approach to enforcement, focusing on sensitisation, training, advice and regular patrols, which are being conducted every three to four days.

“We are not using force. We are service providers. Our role is to sensitise, train and advise the community so that they understand that this ban is for their own benefit,” he stated.

He added that enforcement efforts are constrained by limited manpower, and appealed for increased support from other government departments to strengthen patrols.

Mr Katema further commended the Government for its continued support to the department of livestock and fisheries and emphasised the need for early sensitisation ahead of the fishing ban period.

“We need to be proactive and start sensitisation earlier. People must adhere to the fishing ban because if we fail to take care of our water bodies, we risk losing them completely,” he said.