Minister of Natural Resources and Climate Change Owen Chomanika has said the Kachulu Fish Landing Site, a fish processing facility in Zomba District, will promote business along Lake Chilwa.
Speaking during the launch of the facility on Tuesday, the minister said post-fishing losses have prevented Malawi from reaching its 700 000 metric tonnes (MT) annual fish demand against current output at 200 000MT.
“This facility will enable fishers to properly clean their fish and package for various markets. The fish industry has potential to grow the country’s economy,” he said.
Chomanika said the site will also allow fishers to keep fresh fish as the new facility will have refrigerated space.
Kachulu fish landing site was constructed under Sustainable Fisheries Aquaculture Development and Watershed Management Project with K300 million funding from the African Development Bank.
Project coordinator Robert Kafakoma said the facility was constructed following fishers’ outcry on post-fish harvest losses.
He said the structure provides a better business platform and has potential to spur fish business on Lake Chilwa,” he said.
Zomba District Council chairperson Blazio Chinthenga said the district has benefited from the Sustainable Fisheries Aquaculture Development and Watershed Management Project.
“The facility will help in processing fish and packaging to suit all types of markets in and outside the country,” he said.
Traditional Authority Lamusi said the facility will improve fish business around Lake Chilwa and beyond.
On his part, Kachulu Beach Village Committee representative Ronie Misokwe said the facility will enhance the quality of fish.
Lake Chilwa contributes 20 percent of fish catches in the country, according to the Malawi Government Annual Economic Report 2025
