Illegal Fishing Gear Worth Millions Burned in Malawi
In addition to its fish conservation work, Ripple Africa is also actively addressing forest conservation in the district through tree planting initiatives and promoting efficient cook stoves.
Nkhata Bay, Malawi - In a bid to conserve fish stocks in Lake Malawi, the Nkhata Bay district council, in partnership with Ripple Africa and the Department of Fisheries, incinerated over 200 illegal fishing gears worth K40 million on Thursday, writes Rabecca Kaunda.
The burning, which took place at Nkhafu damping site in the area of Senior Chief Mkumbira, sends a strong message against the use of such equipment.
"This sets a great lesson to the communities involved in fishing that illegal fishing gear is not allowed in Lake Malawi," said Force Ngwira, Country Director for Ripple Africa, whose Fish Conservation project in the district led to the seizure of the gear.
Ngwira praised the cooperation of community structures like Beach Village Committees (BVCs) and Fisheries Associations in confiscating the illegal equipment.
He urged all stakeholders to consider sustainable practices when utilizing natural resources.
"We will keep on carrying our role of sensitizing the communities on recommended gears," vowed Andrew Kamanga, Chairperson of the Mkumbira Beach Village Committee.
District Commissioner Rodgers Newa commended the organization and stakeholders for their efforts in educating fishermen about the dangers of illegal gear.
"These unacceptable gears harvest immature fish, which is making the district lose a lot of fish before it reaches its mature stage," said Newa.
He warned those who continue to use prohibited gear that they will face consequences.
In addition to its fish conservation work, Ripple Africa is also actively addressing forest conservation in the district through tree planting initiatives and promoting efficient cook stoves.