Fish Processors in Salima and Nkhotakota Learn Modern, Eco-Friendly Techniques in Mangochi
The visit, organised by the REFRESH Project, aimed to educate the processors on modern, environmentally friendly fish processing technologies.
MANGOCHI, Malawi - Fish processors from Salima and Nkhotakota districts visited Fish Land Ladies and Nyampesi Fish Products Company in Monkey Bay, Mangochi, on Tuesday, Nov. 14, 2022., writes Brenda Chunga.
The visit, organised by the REFRESH Project, aimed to educate the processors on modern, environmentally friendly fish processing technologies.
Nervason Msusa, the District Fisheries Officer (DFO) for Mangochi, emphasised the importance of such exchange visits.
“Exchange visits are very essential for fish processors as they promote the sharing of ideas on how to improve their fish processing business,” said Msusa.
He added that adopting modern processing methods like Chitofu 3 in 1 and solar tent driers could increase profits and economic empowerment.
Felistas Sibweza, Program Manager from TechnoServe, echoed these sentiments. She praised the exchange visits for helping fish processors and traders grow their businesses and find new markets.
“The quality of fish is improved with the use of modern ways of processing fish, like the use of Chitofu 3 in 1,” Sibweza said.
Bahat Stambuli, Chairperson for Vinthenga Tiyamike Business Club from Nkhotakota district, spoke on behalf of the visitors.
Stambuli said they had learned a lot from their fellow processors and planned to apply the knowledge and skills they had acquired.
They also intend to pass on this knowledge to other processors to increase their profits.
Martha Chikwezga, Treasurer for Fish Land Ladies, described the visit as an encouragement.
“We will continue working hard to achieve our goals,” Chikwezga said.
The REFRESH project is implemented in Mangochi District by the Community Initiative for Self-Reliance (CISER) with funding from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) through Pact Malawi.