WorldFish signs landmark pact to build climate-resilient aquatic food systems in Zambia

ZAMBIA –  The Government of Zambia has signed a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with WorldFish to drive sustainable aquatic food systems through innovation, research, and policy development.

The agreement, inked by Dr. Douty Chibamba, Permanent Secretary of Zambia’s Ministry of Green Economy and Environment (MGEE), and Victor Siamudaala, WorldFish Zambia Country Representative, establishes a collaborative framework to enhance climate adaptation and foster environmentally sound aquaculture practices.

“WorldFish comes to us with their expertise in fisheries, combined with our expertise in weather environment and climate change in general,” said Dr. Chibamba at the signing ceremony. “We are forming a very formidable team to make the fisheries sector remain productive even under a changing climate. When we join hands together, we are a better team.”

Under the partnership, WorldFish and Zambia will undertake joint research and capacity-building initiatives to support local communities, boost food and nutrition security, and create economic opportunities, especially for vulnerable populations. 

The collaboration aims to position aquatic food systems as a pillar of Zambia’s green economy strategy.

The MOU also strengthens Zambia’s ability to manage its rich water resources and promote resilient aquatic ecosystems through evidence-based policymaking and the latest scientific advancements.

“Together, we will drive evidence-based solutions that empower fishers, farmers, and policymakers to build a food system that is both climate-smart and inclusive,” said WorldFish Director General, Dr. Essam Yassin Mohammed.

WorldFish has been active in Zambia since 2008, pioneering innovations in aquaculture productivity and value chain development. With the country’s abundant freshwater resources, the partnership is expected to yield transformative impacts for both Zambia and the wider African continent.

WorldFish advances Nigeria’s fisheries and aquaculture sector

Meanwhile, in Nigeria, WorldFish is advancing similar goals through the Asia-Africa BlueTech Superhighway (AABS), an initiative funded by the UK Blue Planet Fund. 

The program recently completed a stakeholder workshop in Lagos State to promote Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA) systems, with participants from Lagos, Ogun, and Ondo states.

The event showcased grassroots innovations like solar-powered ice-making systems and cold storage solutions developed by local fishing cooperatives. 

Field visits offered hands-on insight into coastal livelihoods, while discussions focused on value chain enhancement, policy frameworks, and cross-sector collaboration.

As the AABS project begins baseline data collection among 450 aquaculture farmers, WorldFish and its partners aim to share final findings later this year in collaboration with Lagos State University. 

The goal is to build climate-resilient, inclusive aquaculture sectors that drive economic growth and ensure long-term food security across Africa.

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