Fatshimetry: Dynamization of the fishing industry in the Democratic Republic of Congo
The Democratic Republic of Congo, a country rich in natural resources, is home to an abundant diversity of fish in its waters. However, in recent years, capture fishing seems to encounter major challenges, particularly in the regions of Kinshasa and Kisangani. President Félix Tshisekedi, concerned with the development of this vital sector for the Congolese economy, recently announced measures aimed at boosting the fishing industry in the country.
During his visit to Kinkole, a district of the urban-rural commune of N’sele in Kinshasa, the Head of State gave directives to the Minister of Fisheries and Livestock, Jean-Pierre Tshimanga, for the rapid distribution of inputs to local fishermen. This initiative aims to support fishing stakeholders by providing them with the necessary means to improve their performance and ensure the viability of their activities.
Minister Tshimanga underlined that President Tshisekedi expressed his satisfaction with the progress of the work on the Kinkole fishing port, a project whose inauguration is imminent. This infrastructure, once operational, will help facilitate the activities of fishermen and strengthen the marketing of fish in the region.
However, despite these advances, capture fishing faces major challenges, such as the practice of illegal and unregulated fishing. Indeed, fishermen from the Fishing and Fish Marketing Cooperative (COPRCOP) deplored the scarcity of catch fish in the Malebo pool in Kinshasa, partly due to these harmful practices.
This delicate situation underlines the urgency of strengthening the regulation of the fishing sector in DR Congo and putting in place effective measures to combat illegal fishing. It is essential to promote sustainable exploitation of aquatic resources in order to preserve the ecological balance and guarantee the sustainability of the activities of local fishermen.
In conclusion, revitalizing the fishing industry in DR Congo requires a holistic approach, integrating actions aimed at strengthening the monitoring of fishing activities, raising awareness among stakeholders on good practices and providing tailored support to fishermen to improve their profitability. . The government and industry stakeholders must work closely together to ensure the sustainable development of fisheries in the country and preserve its valuable aquatic resources.