People are often reluctant to get into aquaculture because projects in this sector have a reputation for failing. But, according to Etienne Hinrichsen, aquaculture expert, this is usually the result of poor planning. Like any other farming business, aquaculture requires a detailed feasibility assessment. In the feasibility analysis, ask yourself…
Question: I would like to farm with fish in a dam, but I need help to choose the right species. I’ve read that one should rather opt for fish species that already occur in the area. Can you assist, please? Choosing a fish species to farm in terms of your…
Bringing an existing fish production demonstration unit into operation and the planned establishment of a national aquaculture diagnostic laboratory are positive developments that will improve fish health and boost farm productivity, says the Fish Producers’ Association of Zimbabwe. The aquaculture diagnostic lab will be housed at the Veterinary Research Laboratory,…
Question: I’m interested in keeping koi fish. Can you help with more information, please? Having koi in the garden pond has become a popular hobby, but if you want to breed the fish as well, it’s important to know how to go about it before you start. Koi breeding is…
Question: I’d like to learn more about aquaculture. Can you help, please? Over-exploitation and climate change put a strain on natural marine and freshwater fish stocks. Aquaculture can help alleviate the pressure and ensure that stock keeps up with the rising demand. Some farmers do not consider aquaculture viable because…
Aquaculture is enjoying unprecedented growth worldwide. For local farmers, it offers an opportunity to diversify profitably. Aquaculture (fish farming) is not a quick fix to get you out of trouble but is rather a diversification that can help your cash flow if your main farming enterprise is taking strain. Charles…
The number of small-scale fish farmers in the Copperbelt has increased to 1 400 – from a mere 200 – over the last decade. According to provincial fisheries principal officer Zyangani Chirambo, the increase is of great significance to the economic diversification of the province which largely depends on copper…
Tilapia farming around the globe is under serious threat after the FAO issued a warning for an outbreak of the deadly Tilapia Lake Virus (TiLV). According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) an outbreak of TiLV threatens the livelihoods and food security of millions of…
Zambia's Minister of Livestock and Fisheries Michael Katambo says Zambia has a staggering bill of nearly K4 billion for importing fish. The minister said Zambia is spending more than K3.8 billion on fish imports to offset the national deficit. “Zambian fish farmers are missing out on the K4 billion fish…
The Zambian Livestock and Fisheries Ministry in partnership with the International Fund for Agriculture (IFAD) have put up K220 000 to set up a fish hatchery with the capacity to produce 200 000 fingerlings in Kitwe, Copperbelt Province. Livestock and fisheries district officer Bright Malambo said the establishment of the…
President Edgar Lungu on Wednesday named fish farming as a viable option for millions of Zambians to increase their income and create jobs. The president also showcased his own attempt – he raised 2,500 fingerlings himself. Lungu set up his fish farm at State Lodge, the second presidential home. It’s…