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By NATION REPORTER
PROFESSOR Geoffrey Lungwangwa has advised government officials against making contradictory statement over the sudden critical shortage of mealie in the country which has resulted into citizens queuing and scrambling for the staple food.
Prof Lungwangwa is wondering why there had been varying and contradictory statements from government officials with some claiming that the country was adequately stocked with the commodity while at the same time, government was talking about the importation of mealie meal to ameliorate its scarcity. Prof Lungwangwa, the former Minister of Education says it is saddening that Zambia for the first time in many decades was experiencing the shortage of mealie meal without any discernable reasons from government.
He said it was ironical that government was exporting thousands of metric tonnes of maize to neighbouring Tanzania when at the same time, the country was being forced to import mealie meal from South Africa.
“It is sad that we are experiencing a serious shortage of mealie meal in the country. But the problem we have is that we have been having contradictory statements from government. There have been reports of the country exporting maize in Chisamba. We saw the Minister of Information and Media Chushi Kasanda flagging off the exportation of hundreds of tons of maize to Tanzania but at the same time, we are importing mealie meal. Why should we have a shortage of mealie meal when we have adequate stocks of maize in the Food Reserve Agency (FRA) depots. Why not offload the maize to the millers so that we can have enough and cheaper mealie meal,” Prof Lungwangwa wondered?
Prof Lungwangwa has challenged Mr Mtolo Phiri, the Minister of Agriculture to issue a clear statement as to what was truly causing the shortage of mealie meal when the country had enough maize.
He advised that government should ensure it met the demand of mealie meal in Zambia before considering exporting the commodity in a bid to assist neighbouring countries.

MIT neuroscientists have found a way to reverse neurodegeneration and other symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease by interfering with an enzyme that is typically overactive in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients.

 THE Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has revealed that it has seized and restricted properties worth over K400 million in its current crusade against graft. Giving a quarterly report for the first quarter of 2023, the commission said as at March 31,  the commission was investigating over 1,000 corruption cases. “During the quarter, the Commission received a […]

By NATION REPORTER
PRESIDENT Hakainde Hichilema should discipline his Political Advisor Levy Ngoma for being abusive and using uncouth and unpalatable language against citizens because he (Ngoma) has become an embarrassment to the presidency, Wynter Kabimba has said.
Mr Kabimba, the Economic Front leader said while Mr Ngoma was being abusive towards opposition political leaders to please President Hichilema as the appointing authority, the head of State should tame his political advisor because his language was tainting the presidency.
Mr Kabimba stated that the presidential political advisor was embarrassing the presidency by using uncouth language against political leaders who were opponents of the President Hichilema.

By NATION REPORTER
NKANA Member of Parliament Binwell Mpundu has called on residents of Kitwe and Kalulushi to protest the poor state of the Chibuluma Road that has suffered neglect for a long time.
Mr Mpundu has complained that the Chibuluma road has remained in a state of despair despite government having promissed that the road was on the programme of rehabilitation.
Mr Mpundu has now officially notified the police over his intentions to start a peaceful protest procession over the poor state of the Chibuluma Road and the inertia by the Ministry of Infrastructure to address this problem despite the numerous promises.
Mr Mpundu said the protest was meant to demand affirmative action so that between now and the next rain season the road should be attended to because any delays would even reach the next rainy season.
“The public would recall that we have engaged the ministry over this matter for a countless number of times and almost a month ago on the floor of parliament the minister again made assurance which have not been supported by any actions since,” Mr Mpundu said.
Mr Mpundu said the protest was meant to tell the general public that they were expressing their displeasure through a peaceful protest tomorrow starting at 09 hours and the starting point would be the Nkana East Central Street traffic lights.
All those who feels affected by the poor state of the road can join the procession otherwise we will do a lone protest if others are not interested.

By NATION REPORTER
THE Patriotic Front (PF) has challenged the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) to enforce the electoral code of conduct and bar UPND from contesting the three forthcoming by-elections owing to their continuous violation of code through their continued violent activities against their opponents.
Given Lubinda, the PF vice president said ECZ has sufficient powers under the Electoral Processes Act and the electoral code of conduct to bar any political party or candidate who engages in electoral violence from contesting elections.

He said barring UPND was the only way ECZ may redeem its tattered reputation and win back some level of public confidence that has been eroded by the unprofessional conduct that has been exhibited especially in the case of Bowman Lusambo and Joseph Malanji.
“We challenge them to use their powers to bar UPND ECZ has an onerous and sacred duty to ensure free and fair elections,” he said.
Mr Lubinda said the conduct of ECZ has a significant role in entrenching democracy and ensuring peace and national security.
He said the PF has reported all the cases of violence to the police. That was why they were demanding that the culprits were brought to justice.
Mr Lubinda also said if President Hakainde Hichilema and the police do not want to act to end the political violence they shall be left with no option but to order their members to start defending themselves.
“We want to put this on record that Mr. Hichilema will be personally held accountable for any loss of life or property that may arise from the violence of his members,” Mr Lubinda said. He said it was odd that such acts of hooliganism were being perpetuated only a few weeks after President Hichilema co-hosted the Democracy Summit.
“Does this not vindicate those of us who declared the democracy summit a smoke screen and a hoax,” he said.

Approximately 7 million adults in the U.S. are living with opioid use disorder (OUD). Yet a new Northwestern Medicine study that measured residential treatment use among Medicaid enrollees across nine states found only 7% of enrollees with OUD received residential treatment, an integral part of the recovery process for many.

A malaria vaccine developed by Britain’s Oxford University is to be used in Ghana, the first time it has received regulatory clearance anywhere in the world.

Bernadette Deka-Zulu (PhD Researcher-Public Enterprise)

Last week, we explored potential of the ‘Blue Economy’ in Zambia. Today, we delve into Zambia’s aquaculture industry particularly the fisheries sector. Having been growing steadily in recent years, the fisheries industry is expected to continue as the country seeks to diversify its economy and reduce its dependence on copper mining. The industry offers a range of investment opportunities for entrepreneurs and investors, particularly for Micro, Small and Medium (MSMEs) fish farmers, who can benefit from government incentives and private funding options.

The potential of the aquaculture sector to boost food security and create employment in Zambia cannot be overstated. With a population of over 17 million people and a growing demand for fish, the current gap in fish production, which stands at over 60%, presents a significant challenge. This gap has resulted in an increased reliance on imported fish, which is often more expensive and of lower quality.

However, this gap also presents a unique opportunity for entrepreneurs and investors to tap into the potential of the aquaculture sector and contribute to the country’s economic growth. By investing in fish farming, innovative businesses can help to close the gap in fish production and improve food security.

Furthermore, the aquaculture industry has the potential to create employment as well as drive exports-as Zambia’s fish can be exported to other countries in the region, such as the Democratic Republic of Congo and Angola. This can bring in much-needed foreign exchange and help to reduce Zambia’s trade deficit.

Current Gap in Fish Production in Zambia

Zambia is facing a significant gap in fish production, with over 60% of the country’s demand for fish being met through imports. The current annual demand for fish and potential capacity in the country is estimated to be over 160,000 metric tons, while the local production is only around 65,000 to 80,000 metric tons per annum. This shortfall presents a significant challenge to the country’s economy and food security.

The demand for fish is driven by several factors, including population growth, urbanization, and changing dietary habits. Fish is a significant source of protein for many Zambians, and as the population grows, the demand for fish is expected to increase. Additionally, as more people move to urban areas, the demand for fish is likely to rise, as urban dwellers tend to consume more fish than rural populations.

The current gap in fish production has several negative impacts on the country’s economy. Firstly, the reliance on imported fish means that Zambia is spending a significant amount of foreign exchange to meet the demand for fish. This can lead to a trade deficit, as the country’s exports may not be enough to cover the cost of imported fish.

Secondly, the high cost of imported fish makes it difficult for many Zambians to afford this important source of protein particularly among low-income households.

Finally, the current gap in fish production represents a missed economic opportunity for Zambia. By increasing local fish production, the country can create employment opportunities and generate revenue from exports. This can help to reduce poverty and improve the livelihoods of millions of people in the country.

Fisheries Production in Zambia

Zambia has a variety of fish species that can be produced through aquaculture, but the two most common species are tilapia and catfish. Tilapia is a popular species in Zambia due to its hardiness, fast growth rate, and excellent taste. Catfish is also a popular species due to its unique flavor and texture.

Tilapia is the most widely farmed fish in Zambia, with over 80% of local production being tilapia. This is due tothe high demand for tilapia in the market, as it is a popular and affordable source of protein. Tilapia is also preferred because it can be farmed in a variety of environments, including ponds, tanks, and cages.

Catfish, on the other hand, is less commonly farmed than tilapia, but it has a growing market demand in Zambia. Catfish is known for its unique taste and texture, which makes it popular among consumers. Additionally, catfish is hardy and can be farmed in a variety of environments, making it a good option for small-scale farmers.

Both tilapia and catfish have good market demand in Zambia, and the demand is expected to increase as the population grows and dietary habits change. The market for fish in Zambia is driven by factors such as population growth, urbanization, and an increasing awareness of the health benefits of fish consumption.

In addition to tilapia and catfish, Kapenta, is a type of small, freshwater sardine, which forms part of staple foods in the Zambian diet, is commonly consumed dried or smoked. However, kapenta is expensive on the Zambian market due to its high demand and limited supply.

Despite its high cost, kapenta remains a popular and important food source for many Zambians, especially those living in rural areas.

Sectoral Investment Opportunities

Investing in the production of a variety of fish species in Zambia can be a profitable venture, especially for small-scale farmers.

This presents an opportunity venture capitals to invest in the production of kapenta and help to increase the local supply, thereby reducing the cost and making it more accessible to consumers. Kapenta is currently on high demand across the country.

Investors and entrepreneurs can also tap into the potential of the tilapia and catfish markets.

By improving the efficiency and productivity of fish farms, businesses can increase local fish production and help to close the gap in fish production. This can also help to create employment opportunities and boost the country’s economic growth.

As it we have established, the aquaculture industry is an important part of Zambia’s blue economy, and its growth has the potential to drive economic development and improve the livelihoods of millions of people. By investing in the sector, entrepreneurs and investors can help to close the gap in fish production, boost food security, and create employment opportunities in the country.

Current Suppliers and Successful Aquaculture Businesses

Currently, fish in Zambia is supplied by both large and small-scale farmers, as well as through imports. Large-scale farmers tend to produce the majority of fish in the country, while small-scale farmers contribute a smaller portion of the total production. However, small-scale farmers have an essential role in providing employment opportunities and contributing to local food security.

Investment opportunities in the aquaculture industry in Zambia are numerous and diverse, ranging from small-scale family farms to medium and subsequently large commercial enterprises. The government of Zambia has implemented several incentives to attract investment in the sector, including tax breaks and subsidies for inputs such as feed and fingerlings. More can be done by private sector investment funding companies.

Successful fishery businesses in Zambia provide examples of the potential for investors and entrepreneurs in the sector. One such business is Yalelo, a tilapia farming enterprise that has rapidly expanded since its inception in 2011. Yalelo currently operates several large-scale tilapia farms in Zambia and has become one of the largest producers of tilapia in the country.

Another example is Kasaka River Lodge, which is a small-scale catfish farming operation that has successfully integrated aquaculture into their ecotourism business model. Kasaka River Lodge produces catfish for their restaurant and for sale in the local market, providing a sustainable source of income for the local community.

These success stories highlight the potential for investment and growth not only in the fishery sector, but also extending opportunities to the whole aquaculture industry in Zambia.

Funding Opportunities and Effectiveness

Funding opportunities are available to support small-scale fish farmers in Zambia. The government and various non-governmental organizations (NGOs) provide funding options that can help small-scale farmers overcome some of the financial challenges they face in starting or expanding their aquaculture businesses.

One funding opportunity available to small-scale farmers is the Citizens Economic Empowerment Commission (CEEC) loans, which are intended to provide affordable financing to Zambians who wish to start or expand their businesses. These loans are specifically targeted at small and medium-sized enterprises, including those in the aquaculture sector.

In addition to the CEEC loans, the government of Zambia has implemented various agricultural programs to support small-scale farmers, including those in the aquaculture sector. For example, the Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP) provides support to farmers in the form of subsidized inputs such as fertilizers and seedlings.

The effectiveness of these funding opportunities is largely dependent on how well they are implemented and managed. In some cases, small-scale farmers have reported difficulties in accessing these funding opportunities due to a lack of information or cumbersome application processes.

However, there are also success stories of small-scale fish farmers who have been able to access and utilize funding opportunities to their advantage. For example, some farmers have used CEEC loans to purchase equipment and inputs needed to expand their operations, while others have used FISP support to increase their production and improve their livelihoods.

Funding opportunities can play a critical role in supporting the growth of small-scale fish farming in Zambia. However, it is important that these opportunities are well-designed, well-implemented, and accessible to all those who need them.

Utilizing Opportunities for Micro, Small and Medium Farmers

Small-scale fish farmers in Zambia can take advantage of the investment and funding opportunities available to them by seeking out information on government programs and private funding options. They can also consider forming partnerships or cooperatives with other farmers to access funding and resources that may not be available to them individually.

To improve the profitability and sustainability of their businesses, small-scale fish farmers can focus on improving their production techniques, including proper feed management, water quality management, and disease control. Farmers can also explore value-addition opportunities such as processing, packaging, and marketing their products to increase their profitability.

Another way for small-scale farmers to improve their business is through the adoption of new technologies and innovative practices. For example, the use of solar-powered water pumps and aerators can help to reduce costs and improve production efficiency. Farmers can also explore the use of aquaponics, a system that combines fish farming with hydroponics, to maximize production and reduce waste.

In addition to these strategies, small-scale farmers can also benefit from participating in training and capacity-building programs offered by both government agencies and and private venture  capital organizations. These programs can provide farmers with the skills and knowledge they need to improve their businesses and take advantage of the opportunities available to them in the aquaculture industry. By utilizing these strategies and taking advantage of the opportunities available to them, small-scale fish farmers in Zambia can contribute to the growth of the aquaculture industry and help to meet the growing demand for fish in the country.

Challenges and Recommendations

Despite the potential for growth in the aquaculture industry in Zambia, there are still several challenges that must be addressed to ensure its success. Some significant challenges facing small-scale farmers are:

The lack of access to funding and resources; Many farmers lack the capital needed to invest in the necessary equipment, technology, and infrastructure required to start or expand their businesses. Additionally, the high cost of inputs such as fish feed, fertilizer, and chemicals can make it difficult for farmers to achieve profitability.

The lack of technical expertise and knowledge among farmers. Many farmers lack the necessary training and education to implement best practices in fish farming, leading to low yields and poor-quality fish. The lack of access to markets and infrastructure also makes it difficult for farmers to sell their products and transport them to buyers.

To address these challenges, there is a need for increased investment in the aquaculture industry and targeted support for small-scale farmers. This includes providing access to funding and resources, such as equipment, technology, and inputs, at affordable rates. It is also essential to provide training and education to farmers on best practices in fish farming, including feed management, water quality management, and disease prevention.

Moreover, there is a need to develop market linkages and infrastructure to help farmers connect with buyers and transport their products to markets. This includes the establishment of processing facilities and cold storage facilities to help preserve the quality of produce and increase its shelf life.

Finally, impact and sustainable investment poured in to medium to small-scale fish farmers will not only contribute to wealth creation amongst our people, it will also add significantly to the whole aquatic and fisheries eco-systems and nutritional value chains that promote food security across board. It is possible to create a thriving industry that contributes to the economic growth and human development.

bernadettedekazulu@gmail.com  

 TO mitigate mealie meal shortages being recorded in selected parts of the country, Government is not allowing exports of maize and mealie meal. Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security Jack Mwiimbu said at a briefing yesterday that exports will only be allowed once there is surplus of the stable food. “We are going to […]