PACT Malawi Trains Champions to Combat Illegal Fishing
PACT Malawi intensifies interventions against illegal fishing methods by training champions to enforce fisheries laws and protect endangered fish species.
Nkhata Bay, Malawi: PACT Malawi, a local organisation implementing the "Restoring Fisheries For Sustainable Livelihood in Lake Malawi" project, has conducted a training workshop to combat illegal fishing methods and protect endangered fish species, writes Oliver Malibisa.
The workshop, held at the Pastoral Training Centre in Nkhata Bay on Wednesday, July 26, 2023, gathered over 27 participants from various sectors, including journalists, business operators, chiefs, community leaders, and faith-based representatives.
"The trained champions will play a vital role in protecting our fish stocks," said Amakhosi Jere, Deputy Chief of Party at PACT Malawi.
"They will work alongside Fisheries staff to enforce laws, monitor compliance, and raise awareness about the importance of using authorised fish gear and catching methods."
Richard Banda, the District Fisheries Officer for Likoma, expressed the Fisheries Department's need for community support in enforcing laws and protecting endangered fish species.
He praised the PACT Malawi project for training these champions, who will work alongside Fisheries staff to safeguard fish populations.
"We are committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure the sustainable management of Lake Malawi's fisheries," said Banda.
"However, we face challenges in enforcing laws due to insufficient equipment and delayed approval of proposed by-laws."
Austine Chirambo, a technician at Find Your Feet, an organisation partnering with PACT Malawi in the implementation of the "Restoring Fisheries For Sustainable Livelihood in Lake Malawi" project in Likoma, assured the island community of their commitment to collaborate with all stakeholders in the implementation process.
"We need the support of all stakeholders to make this project a success," said Chirambo.
"You can also help by raising awareness about the importance of sustainable fishing practices. Together, we can protect Lake Malawi's fish stocks for future generations."
The REFRESH project, which aims to address the depletion of fish species, including Chambo and Mbuna, is being implemented in various districts, including Mangochi, Karonga, Nkhotakota, Salima, Dedza, and Rumphi.
PACT Malawi's training initiative is a crucial step towards combating illegal fishing methods and protecting vulnerable fish species in Malawi's waters.