Command fisheries programme launched in Midlands 

The Midlands Province has launched its Command Fisheries Programme at one of its largest dams, Insukamini in Lower Gweru where 100 000 fingerlings were ploughed in the dam.

Despite the presence of several large to medium sized dams, the country still has very low fisheries output, a situation that has seen the government embarking on a massive fish restocking exercise.

Speaking at the launch, National Parks and Wildlife Management Authority Director for Conservation, Arthur Mutsakwa said the initiative will provide the community of Lower Gweru with employment opportunities as well as food of high nutritional value.

Midlands Minister of State, Cde Jason Machaya, who officially launched the project, implored the community to jealously protect the fish project so that it can be successful and to desist from illegal fishing which is prevalent in the area.

Cde Machaya told the gathering that the Talapia fish was also good for the province as it could help curb malaria as the fish feeds on mosquito larvae.

Insukamini Dam will ensure that there is readily available fish seed for the large and small dams in the province.

So far, more than 44 000 fingerlings have been stocked in dams in the Midlands Province, while individual fish farmers have received about 3000 fingerlings.