NEW: Chief Nhema warns fish poachers in Zaka

Sunday Mail Online

CHIEF Nhema, born Rangarirai Bwawanda, has warned fish poachers against fishing in Siya Dam in Zaka, Masvingo province, for the next 12 months to allow breeding before sustainable exploitation of the fish project begins.

Addressing the local community during the stocking of Siya Dam and Fuvepanganai Irrigation Scheme night storage dams over the weekend, Chief Nhema said offenders will face heavy penalties.

“To curb this, after this stocking, we want us to agree that no one will be seen close to this water body with any fishing equipment,” he said.

“We want these fingerlings to reproduce and multiply such that by the time we start to exploit them, everyone will benefit …

“Anyone who sees or catches anyone going against this decree must apprehend or report such offenders, and any penalty paid will go to the one who reported the case as a reward.”

While officiating at the event, Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Deputy Minister Davis Marapira said fish farming is a viable business, especially during El Niño season.

“With fish, even during a season like this one, you will not go wrong,” he said.

“Fish require such high temperatures, so if you utilise the little water you have, the proceeds from the fish projects can buy you food from those high-yielding areas, and no household will go hungry.

“The President is encouraging us to use what we have to live better lives.”

Deputy Minister Marapira handed over 30 000 fish fingerlings to Zaka district, which will directly benefit close to 2 000 households.

Siya Dam was stocked by 5 000 unsexed fingerlings, while six Fuvepanganai night storage dams received 19 000 unsexed fingerlings.

Chief Nhema’s fishpond got stocked with 500 sexed fingerlings and Lamote Farm received 10 500 for its two dams.