16/11/2025
A STATUS REPORT TO THE ZNFU AGM ON THE AQUACULTURE SECTOR IN ZAMBIA BY THE AQUACULTURE ASSOCIATION OF ZAMBIA ( ADAZ)
THE AQUACULTURE DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION OF ZAMBIA (ADAZ) IS THE APEX BUSINESS ASSOCIATION FOR THE AQUACULTURE INDUSTRY IN ZAMBIA. THE MANDATE OF ADAZ IS TO PROMOTE THE PROSPERITY OF ITS MEMBERS BY SUPPORTING BROAD-BASED ECONOMIC GROWTH AND EMPLOYMENT IN THE AQUACULTURE INDUSTRY THROUGH PARTNERSHIPS AND ADVOCACY FOR AN ENABLING BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT.
Introduction
Aquaculture is one of the fastest-growing food production systems globally, with Zambia's production rising from 19,281 metric tons (MT) in 2014 to 89,342 MT in 2024. The primary species is tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus, along with other Oreochromis spp. and Coptodon rendalli, while African catfish (Clarias gariepinus) is gaining attention due to its climate resilience and market potential in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Zambia's aquaculture includes various production systems—ponds, tanks, cages, and integrated models—at different management levels. The sector contributes about 3.2% to the GDP and emphasizes women and youth participation. Despite most fish being sold locally, estimates suggest much higher export volumes to the DRC than recorded, with only 2,000 MT exported out of 76,626 MT produced in 2023.
Institutional Capacity
The Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, through the Department of Fisheries (DoF), oversees aquaculture development, complemented by veterinary and marketing departments. The ADAZ is a major stakeholder that the DoF collaborates with, including other various local and international organizations for investment and compliance. Regulatory frameworks are outlined in the Fisheries Act No. 22 and related environmental acts, supporting decision-making tools like the Zambia Aquaculture Atlas.
Policy and Strategic Environment
Key policies influencing investments include the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Policy, the Eighth National Development Plan, and adherence to international frameworks like the FAO guidelines. Zambia is aligning policies with the African Union’s strategies.
Investment
Public investment has increased, especially through the Zambia Aquaculture Enterprise Development Project, which has established vital infrastructure and service centers. Private investments have included fish feed plants and hatcheries. The government also supports genetic improvement programs for sustainable production of indigenous fish species.
The ADAZ, given the above institutional framework, is positive that Zambia is strategically poised to be the biggest producer of fish to supply to the COMESA region. The trajectory of growth which had been recorded as the fastest in sub Saharan Africa, is consistent with the investment levels that we are experiencing in the sector. We wish to continue in this promotion in order for the Aquaculture sector to increase its GDP contribution and promote food security and food safety by providing affordable protein to the Nation.
Thank you
Fisho P Mwale,
PRESIDENT,
ADAZ.
30/09/2025
