Title: The challenges and issues of the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Office in the DRC
Introduction :
The National Fisheries and Aquaculture Office (ONPA) in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is now an integral part of the reforms put in place by the government to revive the fisheries and aquaculture sector in the country. Under the vision of President Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, the ONPA’s mission is to boost fish production, modernize and industrialize the sector, as well as ensure the food self-sufficiency of the Congolese. This article examines the challenges and issues facing ONPA in this ambitious undertaking.
Government support for food self-sufficiency:
ONPA enjoys unfailing support from the Minister of Fisheries and Livestock, Adrien Bokele Djema, as well as from the Head of State. The government is determined to revive the fishing and aquaculture sector in order to ensure food self-sufficiency for the Congolese population. ONPA’s mission is to organize the supply of fishing and aquaculture inputs, materials and equipment, in addition to organizing the collection, distribution, processing, conservation and marketing of fishing and aquaculture products. aquaculture across the country.
Modernization and industrialization of the sector:
One of ONPA’s major challenges is the modernization and industrialization of the fishing and aquaculture sector in the DRC. This involves setting up suitable fishing and aquaculture infrastructures, as well as promoting scientific research applied to these areas. It is a question of moving from artisanal fishing to industrial fishing, using more efficient capture techniques and promoting the breeding of fish in fish farming. This modernization will significantly increase the country’s fisheries and aquaculture production.
The preservation of natural resources:
Another major challenge for ONPA is the preservation of the DRC’s natural marine and river resources. It is essential to put in place measures for the sustainable management of resources to avoid the depletion of fish stocks and preserve the ecological balance of aquatic ecosystems. This notably involves the regulation of fishing, the fight against illegal fishing and the awareness of fishermen and local communities of the importance of the conservation of natural resources.
Promotion of the value chain:
ONPA plays a central role in promoting the value chain of fisheries and aquaculture products in the DRC. The aim is to promote the processing, conservation and marketing of products in order to ensure better economic development of fishing and aquaculture.. This involves building the capacity of players in the sector, creating outlets on the national and international market, as well as developing partnerships with companies specializing in the processing and marketing of seafood products.
Conclusion :
ONPA represents hope for the revival of the fishing and aquaculture sector in the DRC. With government support and the implementation of ambitious reforms, ONPA is able to contribute to the country’s food self-sufficiency, the modernization of the sector, the preservation of natural resources and the promotion of the supply chain. value of fishery and aquaculture products. However, these objectives can only be achieved with a strong commitment, adequate investments and close collaboration between the various players in the sector