02 Nov 2026

Addition of Nile tilapia broodstock at Mmadinare Fish Hatchery is expected to improve supply of quality fingerlings to support government fish stocking programmes and private fish farmers.

Speaking at the official reception of live Nile tilapia broodstock in Mmadinare on October 30, Minister of Lands and Agriculture, Dr Edwin Dikoloti said the initiative was an indication of government’s commitment to prioritising aquaculture as contributor to agricultural transformation and economic growth.

“Fisheries and aquaculture represent significant opportunities along the value chain that can be utilised to facilitate agricultural transformation, promote economic diversification, and stimulate growth,” he said.

He said strengthening these areas was essential not only to broaden the agricultural sector but also to create sustainable opportunities that could lead to creation of employment opportunities.

Dr Dikoloti said currently there were about 50 recognised fish farmers and their produce currently contributed to 117 metric tonnes to the country’s fish production compared to the 5 000 tonnes required for food security in fish production.

He said the figures demonstrated the need to expand fish farming to meet the country’s demand for fish as the national consumption continue to exceed local production.

 “Government aims to enhance fish farming and promote responsible fishing practices and investment in aquaculture technology to ensure environmental sustainability while meeting growing food demand,” he said.

Dr Dikoloti pointed out that the fisheries and aquaculture sectors offered a wide range of opportunities throughout the entire value chain, adding that by tapping into these opportunities, the country could stimulate enterprise development, generate employment and enhance sustainable livelihoods.

The Minister further underscored that the country had significant potential to develop its aquaculture industry through the sustainable utilisation of natural resources such as dams, reservoirs, and other suitable water bodies.

Meanwhile the Member of Parliament for Mmadinare, who is also the Minister of Local Government and Traditional Affairs, Mr Ketlhalefile Motshegwa appreciated the addition of the Nile tilapia brood to the Mmadinare hatchery.

He said this would improve variety and quality of fishery produced at the hatchery, offering those into fishery and aquaculture business an opportunity to enhance their breeding.

He said fish farming presented better opportunities considering that government intends to include fish as part of the school-feeding programme, further saying this would be an income boost to those who ventured into the fish farming.

For his part, the acting Director from the Department of Fisheries and Apiculture, Mr Isaac Batsile explained that the arrival of the Nile tilapia broodstock at Mmadinare Fish Hatchery marked a step toward restoring production, following the temporary suspension of operations due Epizootic Ulcerative Syndrome. ENDS