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The Sixth Ordinary Meeting of the Council of Ministers for Fisheries and Aquaculture in Lake Victoria of the East African Community (EAC) is currently underway at the Expert Level in Arusha.
This preparatory meeting sets the stage for the Ministerial Level discussions scheduled for May 31, 2024.
The key agenda of the expert-level meeting is to review and evaluate the implementation of previous directives and decisions aimed at advancing the fishing industry and enhancing aquatic life in Lake Victoria. This evaluation is critical to ensure that the region continues to make progress in developing sustainable fisheries and aquaculture practices.
Additionally, the meeting aims to forge new strategies to improve fish resources and foster the growth of aquatic life in the lake. These discussions are expected to result in actionable plans that will support the sustainability and efficiency of fishing activities in the region.
A significant topic on the agenda is the upcoming African gathering of stakeholders in the fisheries and aquatic sector, set to take place in August 2024. This event is anticipated to bring together key players and experts from across the continent to share insights and collaborate on advancing the fisheries sector.
The Lake Victoria Fisheries Organization (LVFO), headquartered in Jinja, Uganda, plays a pivotal role in these initiatives. Managed by the Council of Sectoral Ministers of Fisheries and Aquatic Development, LVFO is responsible for coordinating and overseeing the development of fisheries and aquaculture resources within the EAC.
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Among the notable projects spearheaded by LVFO are the operational patrol boats in Lake Victoria, which support research and monitoring activities, and the EU-EAC TRUE-FISH project. TRUE-FISH aims to promote sustainable fish farming practices in the Lake Victoria basin, addressing both ecological and economic aspects of fish farming.
Another key initiative is the ECOFISH-LVFO project, which focuses on the sustainable management and optimal utilization of fish and marine resources. This project emphasizes the establishment of policies and systems that encourage efficient and sustainable fishing methods.
Representatives from Tanzania, Kenya, Burundi, and Uganda are attending the expert-level meeting. These member states are actively involved in the discussions, reflecting their commitment to the shared goals of the Institute.
Leading the Tanzanian delegation is Dr. Nazael Amos Madalla, Director of Animal Development in the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries. The Tanzanian delegation includes officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries, and the Tanzania Fisheries Research Institute (TAFIRI).
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Dr. Madalla, in his capacity, has been actively participating in the discussions, emphasizing Tanzania’s commitment to advancing the region’s fisheries sector. Senior Community Development Officer at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Ms. Dorah Neema, also made significant contributions during the meeting.
The expert-level meeting is chaired by Mr. Aime Nkurunziza, Director of Production Sectors and Social Affairs, who is also the current chair of the Council of Ministers for Fisheries and Aquaculture Development in the EAC.
As the discussions progress, it is anticipated that the outcomes will lay a solid foundation for the Ministerial meeting, ultimately driving forward the shared objectives of sustainable fisheries and aquaculture development in Lake Victoria.
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