Egypt has embarked on a transformative journey to enhance sustainability in the aquaculture sector. The World Fish Center, WorldFish, has initiated a 4-year research program aimed at increasing the utilization of renewable energy in aquaculture. With the support of Norway, this project has the potential to benefit 5,000 fish producers, processors, and other stakeholders in the fish value chain, contributing to their long-term productivity and income growth.
Embracing Sustainable Development in Aquatic Food Systems
Recognizing the immense potential of sustainable development in aquatic food systems, Essam Yassin Mohammed, Director General of WorldFish, highlights the critical role of this initiative in addressing global food security challenges. Through the establishment of the Centre for Renewable Energy in Aquaculture (CeREA) and the partnership with Norway, WorldFish is committed to promoting low-emission development in aquaculture for the betterment of people and the planet.
Focus on Renewable Energy Research and Implementation
The program, funded by Norway, will center around CeREA, a dedicated research center focused on renewable energy in aquaculture. The facility will serve as a hub for improving, testing, and disseminating innovative solutions for the adoption of renewable energy in the aquaculture industry. Currently, the aquaculture sector in Egypt heavily relies on fossil fuels, particularly in fish feed production and hatchery operations.
Egypt’s Thriving Aquaculture Industry and the Fishing Port Project
Egypt boasts the most developed aquaculture industry in Africa. Recognizing the importance of sustainable practices, the country is taking steps to enhance its fisheries infrastructure. Recently, the construction of Egypt’s first integrated fishing port in Rosetta, on the Mediterranean, commenced. With an estimated value of $19.4 million, the port will include a quay capable of accommodating 60 fishing boats per hour, maintenance facilities, ice-making factories, fish processing and freezing units, and storage for fishing equipment.
Central Africa’s First Fishery in a Run-of-River Dam
In Central Africa, the Nachtigal Hydro Power Company is leading the construction of the Nachtigal dam in Cameroon. As part of the development plan, the first fishery in a run-of-river dam in Central Africa is set to be implemented from August 2023. The fishery is projected to be operational by the first quarter of 2024, with an expected annual productivity of 30 tonnes of fish. This endeavor aligns with the government’s initiative to boost industrial fishing on dam waters, reducing Cameroon’s reliance on fish imports and supporting national industry development.
Egypt’s launch of a comprehensive program to advance sustainability in aquaculture through renewable energy showcases its commitment to environmental stewardship and long-term economic growth. With the establishment of CeREA and the support of Norway, the country aims to transform its aquaculture practices, benefiting thousands of stakeholders in the fish value chain. Additionally, initiatives like the construction of the integrated fishing port and the development of Central Africa’s first fishery in a run-of-river dam highlight the broader regional efforts to promote local fish production and reduce dependence on imports.
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