FISH farming is emerging as a powerful catalyst of women and youth empowerment, while bolstering food security in Matabeleland.
Nkayi South legislator Jabulani Hadebe said aquaculture projects were a practical solution to rural unemployment, fostering entrepreneurship while equipping communities with business management skills.
“We must encourage our women and young people to take up fish farming,” Hadebe said.
“It offers income generation, employment creation and improved nutrition.
“Fish is rich in protein, supports tissue repair and is suitable for people with diabetes.”
He noted that ongoing major dam projects — including Gwayi-Shangani, Bubi-Lupane and Ziminya Dam — will be instrumental in supporting aquaculture projects.
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“Dams will not only provide water for irrigation but also create opportunities for communities to venture into aquaculture,” he said.
Bulawayo North MP Minenhle Gumede said the often economically vulnerable women and youth required targeted support to thrive in the sector.
“This venture has the potential to transform livelihoods, create sustainable income and improve food security,” Gumede said.
“Such policies should reach all intended beneficiaries on the ground rather than remaining tokenistic measures that exist only on paper.”
The legislators called for access to start-up capital, technical training and extension services so that fish farming drives self-reliance and strengthens the agricultural
sector.