WorldFish Director Discusses Opportunities and Challenges in Boosting Africa’s Aquaculture Industry

by Fishery News

Africa currently contributes a mere 2 percent to the world’s farmed seafood production, with an estimated annual output of 2.3 million metric tons. However, experts believe the continent has the potential to reach 15 million metric tons by 2050. WorldFish, a nonprofit organization with over 45 years of experience, has been leading initiatives to enhance sustainable aquaculture and fisheries projects in Africa, Asia, and the Pacific Islands, aiming to address hunger, malnutrition, and poverty.

SeafoodSource recently interviewed WorldFish Director General Essam Yassin Mohammed, who shared insights into the status of Africa’s aquaculture industry, the challenges it faces, and potential investment opportunities, particularly for the European Union (EU).

 

Investment Opportunities and Challenges:

Mohammed highlighted the diverse and dynamic nature of Africa’s aquaculture sector, presenting multiple opportunities and challenges. The continent boasts vast water resources, a growing demand for fish products due to urbanization, and competitive advantages like affordable labor and land. Countries such as Egypt, Nigeria, and Madagascar have already experienced substantial growth in aquaculture, showcasing potential for others.

Regional initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) are facilitating smoother intra-African trade and business operations. However, challenges include infrastructure limitations, regulatory ambiguities, access to finance, and specific skill gaps in modern aquaculture practices. Mohammed emphasized that while these challenges exist, they are not insurmountable, with African nations increasingly collaborating and sharing knowledge to overcome obstacles.

Role of African Governments:

Mohammed underscored the pivotal role of African governments in attracting European Union investments. Transparent regulatory structures are crucial to ensure sustainable practices and build investor confidence. Infrastructure development, especially in supply chains connecting production areas to markets, is a key focus. Additionally, investments in training and capacity-building demonstrate a commitment to developing human capital, preparing local industries for collaborations with European entities.

Mohammed emphasized the importance of ethical investment that prioritizes inclusivity, equity, and sustainability. European stakeholders are urged to avoid merely exploiting Africa’s resources and instead engage in relationships that benefit local communities, conserve cultures and ecosystems, and ensure long-term sustainability.

On a whole, the interview highlighted the immense potential for growth in Africa’s aquaculture sector and the crucial role that responsible and ethical investment, particularly from the European Union, can play in fostering sustainable development and benefiting all stakeholders involved.

 

 

 

 

 

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