Addressing Food Security and Human-Wildlife Conflict
The Kavango West region of Namibia faces a growing need for sustainable aquaculture infrastructure. With many residents still dependent on river fishing for survival, the lack of proper fish farming facilities exposes them to life-threatening dangers, particularly crocodile attacks. Despite government efforts, such as the recent donation of five boreholes by the Ministry of Agriculture, Water, and Land Reform, additional measures are necessary to strengthen food security and economic development.
The Current State of Aquaculture in Kavango West
At present, the region has only two community fish ponds—one in Nkurenkuru, established last year, and another in Tondoro, which was built last month. These facilities are insufficient to meet the demand for sustainable fish farming, forcing many villagers to risk their lives by fishing in the rivers. The Mpungu Fish Farm in Nkurenkuru, which harvested approximately 2.8 tons of tilapia last year, showcases the potential of aquaculture in the area, yet its limited capacity cannot sustain the entire region.
Tondoro Constituency Councillor Joseph Sivaku Sikongo has been a vocal advocate for expanding aquaculture infrastructure. He has called for the construction of at least 100 additional fish ponds across the region, arguing that providing residents with sustainable fish farming opportunities will significantly reduce dependence on dangerous river fishing.
A Path to Sustainable Aquaculture
Sikongo emphasized that both Kavango regions must prioritize aquaculture development to improve food security, generate employment, and stimulate economic activity. The region’s inland water sources hold great potential for fish farming, which, if fully utilized, could transform local communities by ensuring a steady food supply and income generation.
“We are looking forward to more fish ponds so that every village or household can have something to feed themselves during times of drought,” said Sikongo.
He also stressed the need for sourcing fish eggs and stock locally to maintain a self-sufficient and sustainable aquaculture industry.
Economic and Social Benefits of Aquaculture Expansion
Developing aquaculture in Kavango West would not only improve food security but also create much-needed employment opportunities. Helena Mbava Kandjimi, a resident of Katara Village, highlighted the multiple benefits of fish ponds, stating that they contribute to household well-being, generate income, and enhance overall farm productivity.
“Fish ponds help reduce malnutrition and poverty while discouraging residents from fishing in the river,” she said.
Kandjimi further explained that well-managed fish ponds could stabilize the declining fisheries sector, improve local economies, and encourage the growth of rural businesses.
Integrating Training and Capacity Building
For aquaculture to thrive in Kavango West, investment in training and education is crucial. Sikongo suggested that local communities should be trained in fish farming techniques, cage farming, and eco-tourism development. These skills would empower residents to manage their own fish farms efficiently, further boosting the economic potential of the region.
“With the installed boreholes, villagers can access clean water, start irrigation projects for vegetable farming, and establish their own fish ponds with the necessary equipment,” he said.
The expansion of aquaculture infrastructure in Kavango West is a necessary step toward improving food security, reducing human-wildlife conflict, and boosting rural economies. While the government’s initiatives, such as borehole installations, have been valuable, a more comprehensive strategy involving the construction of fish ponds, local training programs, and sustainable resource management is required.
With strong leadership, community involvement, and targeted investments, Kavango West has the potential to become a thriving hub for inland fish farming, ultimately transforming the livelihoods of its residents.
Original article by Annakleta Haikera from The Village Newspaper
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