With the Judith Suminwa government's action plan set to take effect in a year, Minister Jean-Pierre Tshimanga Bwana is emphasizing reforms aimed at increasing national fish production, combating illegal fishing, and enhancing the Democratic Republic of the Congo's food sovereignty. As part of its accountability efforts, the ministry is decentralizing support to fishing communities, which was previously concentrated in Kinshasa.
Equipment has been distributed to various provinces, and fishermen and fish traders are being identified and organized into unions and communities to improve their supervision. This approach seeks to enhance the sector's overall performance and provide better support to those involved in fishing activities. By doing so, the ministry aims to make the fishing industry more efficient and productive.
The fight against illegal fishing is a top priority for Minister Tshimanga Bwana, who denounces the use of mosquito nets and toxic products that harm aquatic ecosystems. He stresses that "illegal fishing is the kind that kills fishing," and calls for adherence to fishing calendars and regulations. The minister believes that enforcing these regulations is crucial to ensuring the long-term sustainability of the fishing sector.
On the institutional front, Minister Tshimanga Bwana cites the adoption of the law on fishing and aquaculture, as well as a contractual agreement with Morocco's National Office of Fisheries and Aquaculture for technical support in the sector. The development of pisciculture is also a priority, with the government providing support to producers and establishing a mechanism to identify beneficiaries, in collaboration with the Ministries of Budget and Finance.
Regarding fishing boats, the minister notes that he inherited a project with orders already placed in Spain and Egypt. Discussions are underway to revive the project on technical and financial bases adapted to the country's different fishing zones. The goal remains to increase local production and reduce reliance on fish imports. Minister Tshimanga Bwana emphasizes the need for collaboration to achieve this objective.
The strategy to boost local fish production involves cooperation between the Ministries of Fisheries and Livestock, Agriculture, and Rural Development, with support from partners like the World Bank. The aim is to develop production basins and strengthen agro-food value chains. By working together, the government hopes to increase food production and reduce the country's dependence on imported fish.
Minister Tshimanga Bwana's vision is centered on producing more locally to meet the needs of the Congolese people. He believes that by working together, it is possible to produce enough fish to feed the population and reduce reliance on imports. The minister's efforts are focused on implementing reforms that will have a lasting impact on the sector and improve the livelihoods of those involved in fishing activities.
Key points
- The DRC government is working to increase local fish production and reduce reliance on imports.
- The government has adopted a law on fishing and aquaculture and is providing support to producers.
- The fight against illegal fishing is a top priority for the government.
