Local Organization Works to Protect Fish in Lake Malawi Through Abandoned Fishing Gear Initiative
Go Green Save Environment (GGSE) Malawi introduces initiative to correct abandoned fishing gear, protecting fish in Lake Malawi.
NKHATA BAY, MALAWI — Go Green Save Environment (GGSE) Malawi, a local organisation, is making efforts to protect the fish in Lake Malawi through its abandoned fishing gear initiative, writes Rabecca Kaunda.
The initiative aims to collect and remove the fishing gear that has been left behind, which poses a threat to the fish and other aquatic animals in the lake.
Nancy Jutu Kaunda, a volunteer from Kamoza village in Traditional Authority Mkumbura, shared her experience with the initiative, stating that she was previously unaware of the harm caused by abandoned fishing gear in Lake Malawi.
She explained that by correcting this fishing gear, the species in the lake can freely dive and breed, promoting a healthier aquatic ecosystem.
Prince Shela, another volunteer from Traditional Authority Mkumbura, emphasised the positive impact of the initiative on the district and the lake.
He stated that the initiative aims to improve the health of aquatic ecosystems, safeguard human health, and protect livelihoods.
Ethel Mwafulirwa, the Project Director, revealed that their team is currently conducting a survey to determine the number of fishing gear dumped in Lake Malawi.
Simultaneously, they are cleaning up the beaches and improving sanitation while correcting the abandoned fishing gear.
Trasicio Nguluwe, the District Fisheries Officer, praised the initiative, particularly highlighting the issue of plastic fishing gear.
He explained that plastic gear takes a long time to break down, contributing to plastic pollution and negatively impacting the sustainability of fisheries.
The intervention by Go Green Save Environment will help mitigate the economic and environmental impact of abandoned fishing gear.
The project is currently being implemented in Nkhata Bay, as well as in some parts of Salima and Mangochi.
The initiative aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 14, which focuses on conserving and sustainably using oceans, seas, and marine resources for sustainable development.