Project to promote fishing in Nkhotakota
Pact Malawi has embarked on a fish conservation project in Nkhotakota to boost fish productivity by engaging communities on the importance of conserving natural resources.
Dubbed Restoring Fisheries for Sustainable Livelihood in Lake Malawi Programme (Refresh), the project largely focuses on ecosystem-based approach in enhancing fisheries management.
Speaking at a sensitisation meeting on Saturday at Kanyenda Village Development Committee (VDC), Pact Malawi technical officer Victoria Hara said they have lined up activities to ensure strict adherence to and understanding of sustainable fishing.
She said: “We are working with the Department of Fisheries to advance decentralised and participatory ecosystem-based fisheries management.
“We want to instill a spirit that the lake is theirs and they should realise the economic potential of sustaining the lake.”
Hara pointed out that they will provide fishing communities with opportunities to start other enterprises to reduce overdependence on fishing.
In his remarks, Liwaladzi fisheries extension officer Christopher Chisesa said the project will fill gaps in the Fisheries Department in the district.
He bemoaned fishers’ failure to adhere to fisheries laws that encourage sustainable fishing in the district.
Kanyenda VDC vice-chairperson Baldwin Chirwa commended the organisation for the project, saying it will go a long way in conserving fish in the area.
He said due to reduced fish catches, the fishing community is struggling to earn money for its basic necessities.
Pegged at $12 million, the USAid-funded project is being implemented in all lakeshore areas and is expected to end in 2024.
