Farmers in Zimba District, Southern Province, have increasingly embraced fish farming, a strategy aimed at boosting household incomes and enhancing food security.
Zimba District Fisheries and Livestock Coordinator, Mebelo Wamulume, has welcomed the development, urging farmers to approach fish farming seriously as a sustainable and profitable business venture.
Mr Wamulume disclosed that four groups have since procured more than 3,000 fingerlings to restock their fish ponds with the expectations to stimulate local economic activity.
Mr Wamulume said the initiative showed that farmers were beginning to appreciate the economic potential of aquaculture.
“We have four groups of farmers who have since bought over 3,000 fingerlings and the department we are offering technical support, this demonstrates commitment and growing interest in fish farming.” Mr. Wamulume said.
Mr Wamulume told the Zambia News and Information Services in an interview that the department was providing technical support to ensure the success of the venture.
He noted that although the district’s water table was generally low, fish farming remained viable with proper water management practices.
He further observed that the recent good rainfall received in the district, coupled with the installation of water points through the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), was expected to boost aquaculture activities.
“As a department, we are offering technical guidance in areas such as pond construction, stocking, feeding and general pond management so that farmers can maximize production.
Even though our water table is low, there is still potential for fish farming. Farmers just need to adopt appropriate technologies and ensure proper water harvesting methods.” Mr. Wamulume explained.
He also added that fish farming has the potential to improve household nutrition and provide an alternative source of income.
The Department of Fisheries has since reaffirmed its commitment to supporting farmers in scaling up aquaculture production in the district.
