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Monday 07:30 - 16:30 Tuesday 07:30 - 16:30 Wednesday 07:30 - 16:30 Thursday 07:30 - 16:30 Friday 07:30 - 16:30

http://www.malawi.gov.mw/fisheries

Department of Fisheries - Malawi, Department of Fisheries Building, P. O. Box 593, Capital Hill, Lilongwe (2026)

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Department Of Fisheries Building, P. O. Box 593, Capital Hill

13/05/2026

Minister of Natural Resources Engages CP Feeds for Aquaculture Development in Malawi

The Minister of Natural Resources, Honourable Patricia Wiskes, MP, on 13th May 2026 engaged with private sector company CP Feeds Limited in a meeting aimed at advancing fish feed production and aquaculture development in Malawi. The meeting took place at the Ministry of Natural Resources headquarters at Capital Hill in Lilongwe.

Speaking during the meeting, Honourable Patricia Wiskes described aquaculture as one of Malawi’s key sectors with great potential to contribute towards food security, employment creation, and national economic growth. She observed that the country is currently facing high demand for fish amid declining fish stocks in Lake Malawi, making aquaculture a critical solution for increasing fish production.

The Minister further noted that fish feed production remains inadequate to meet the growing demand from fish farmers across the country. She therefore emphasized Government’s commitment to engaging strategic private sector partners such as CP Feeds Limited to unlock investments capable of boosting production across the aquaculture value chain.

In his remarks, the Managing Director of CP Feeds Limited, Mr. Nizam Kasmani, assured Government of the company’s readiness and capacity to invest in aquaculture development in Malawi. Mr. Kasmani disclosed that the company is already producing approximately 200,000 metric tonnes of chicken feed annually, demonstrating its strong production capacity and technical expertise in feed manufacturing.

He further stated that CP Feeds Limited has the capacity to produce up to 45,000 metric tonnes of fish feed through utilization of the existing Kanengo feed mill, operationalization of the Mzuzu Fish Feed Mill, and establishment of additional facilities where necessary.

Mr. Kasmani also expressed interest in investing in fingerling production, both pond and cage aquaculture, including possible operations in Salima and at Kasinthula Aquaculture Centre. He commended Government for creating an enabling environment for private sector participation in aquaculture and reaffirmed the company’s commitment to continued collaboration with the Department of Fisheries.

The meeting also discussed the need for increased investment in fingerling production to support Malawi’s target of producing 100,000 metric tonnes of fish annually by 2030. Current national demand for fingerlings is estimated at 125 million.

During the meeting, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the Government of Malawi, through the Department of Fisheries and CP Feeds Limited. The MoU focuses on the implementation of a fish feed trial in Mangochi and marks the beginning of broader collaboration between Government and the private sector in transforming Malawi’s aquaculture industry.

Ministry of Natural Resources- Malawi
Hon. Patricia wiskes

24/04/2026

Minister Tours Lusangazi Fish Farmers Cooperative, Applauds Aquaculture for Wealth Creation

On 22 April 2026, the Minister of Natural Resources, Honourable Patricia Wiskes, MP, continued her tour of aquaculture sites in the Northern Region with a visit to Lusangazi Fish Farmers Cooperative near Mzuzu. The cooperative has benefited from support from partners including the GIZ Sustainable Aquatic Food (SAF) Project and the Malawi Food Systems Resilience Program (MFSRP).

The Minister was accompanied by the Principal Secretary for Natural Resources, Dr. Misheck Yagontha Munthali; the Director of Fisheries, Dr. Hastings Zidana; officials from the Ministry of Natural Resources; the GIZ Malawi Country Director, Dr. Inge Baumgarten; and representatives from the SAF Project and MFSRP. The delegation toured the farm facilities and commended the capacity-building support provided by the SAF Project, which includes training in fish farm management, fingerling and feed production, as well as post-harvest handling, processing, and marketing.

In her remarks, the Minister praised the cooperative for its hard work and commitment to adopting aquaculture technologies that enhance production. She agreed with the local traditional leader, Group Village Headman Chauluma Kaunda, that the cooperative has moved beyond poverty reduction and is now contributing to wealth creation through aquaculture. She also expressed appreciation to GIZ for its strong partnership with the Department of Fisheries in empowering small-scale fish farmers to sustainably increase production through climate-smart aquaculture while strengthening the aquaculture value chain in Malawi. She emphasized the critical role of fish farming in creating employment, generating income, and improving food and nutrition security and urged development partners to continue to provide support to the aquaculture sub-sector.

Speaking at the event, GIZ Malawi Country Director Dr. Inge Baumgarten highlighted the long-standing partnership between the German Government and Malawi. She noted that, in recognition of the aquaculture sub-sector’s potential to contribute to national development goals, GIZ has supported both policy development within the Department of Fisheries and technical capacity building for small-scale fish farmers. During the visit, the SAF Project handed over a Chitofu 3-in-1 fish processing unit to the cooperative to promote environmentally friendly and safe fish processing.

The Minister was also briefed on initiatives under MFSRP aimed at enhancing the commercialization of Lusangazi Fish Farmers Cooperative and improving their economic livelihoods through aquaculture. The program has provided the cooperative with a matching grant facility to finance the construction of fish ponds, feed mill and cold room housing, and the procurement of a fish feed mill and cold storage equipment. The Minister visited the construction site for these facilities and expressed satisfaction with the progress made so far.

The SAF Project is funded by the German Government through the Federal Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and seeks to harness the potential of sustainable aquatic foods to transform agriculture and food systems in Malawi. The MFSRP, funded by the World Bank, aims to strengthen the resilience of food systems by rebuilding agricultural production capacity and promoting the sustainable management of natural resources.

Ministry of Natural Resources- Malawi
GIZ Malawi
Hon. Patricia wiskes

22/04/2026

Minister of Natural Resources visits Mudimwa Fish Farming Club to appreciate Integrated Aquaculture-Agriculture Systems

On Tuesday, 21 April 2026, the Minister of Natural Resources, Honourable Patricia Wiskes, MP, visited Mudimwa Fish Farming Club at Ntchenachena in Rumphi District. The site is a beneficiary of the Co-operative Development Foundation of Canada’s Integrating Aquaculture-Agriculture to Combat Food Insecurity in Malawi (IAAM) Project, which aims to increase productivity, incomes, and market access for small-scale food producers—especially women—through integrated systems combining fish, crops, livestock, and agroforestry.

In her remarks, Honourable Wiskes emphasized that the Government has placed food security at the centre of its development agenda, highlighting the critical role of increased fish production in achieving this goal. She noted that fisheries contribute significantly to Malawi’s socio-economic development through income generation, job creation, and improved nutrition. The Minister expressed satisfaction with the integrated aquaculture-agriculture model at Mudimwa, describing it as a promising approach for improving rural livelihoods and reducing poverty.

She further noted that integrated systems enhance resilience to climate change by promoting efficient water use, diversified production, and sustainable land management. Honourable Wiskes called on development partners to continue supporting and scaling up such initiatives for greater national impact. She also stressed the need to increase per capita fish consumption to promote a healthier and more food-secure population, while commending CDF Canada for its continued support to the fisheries sector.

Earlier, the CDF Canada Representative, Mrs. Tiwonge Soko, highlighted key achievements of the project, including the provision of fingerlings, fish feed, and irrigation equipment to beneficiary communities. She added that the project has also supported households with food relief during lean periods and strengthened the capacity of government extension officers to ensure sustainability beyond the project lifecycle. She further underscored the project’s commitment to environmental conservation through tree planting initiatives aimed at mitigating climate change and restoring ecosystems.

Other speakers included the Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Natural Resources, Dr. Misheck Yagontha Munthali; Director of Fisheries, Dr. Hastings Zidana; Council Chairperson for Rumphi, Mr. Butawo; and a representative of Paramount Chief Chikulamayembe, Senior Chief Mwalweni, among others.

The IAAM Project is a five-year initiative (2024–2028) funded by the Norwegian Government and is being implemented in eight districts: Chitipa, Rumphi, Mzimba, Nkhotakota, Ntchisi, Dowa, Zomba, and Thyolo. It is being implemented by CDF Canada in collaboration with key partners, including the Government of Malawi, Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (LUANAR), Malawi Federation of Cooperatives (MAFECO), Malawi Union of Savings and Credit Cooperatives (MUSCCO), AWFISHNET Malawi, Women’s Legal Resources Centre (WOLREC), and Community Agribusiness Partners (CAP Malawi).

Ministry of Natural Resources- Malawi
CDF Canada - IAAM Project
Royal Norwegian Embassy in Lilongwe, Malawi
Community Agribusiness Partners-CAP Malawi
Hon. Patricia wiskes

16/04/2026

Department of Fisheries Supports Schools and Cooperatives with Fish Processing Equipment and Nutritious Fish Powder

In April 2026, the Department of Fisheries, in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), distributed essential fish processing equipment to selected fish cooperatives and delivered nutritious fish powder to primary schools in Salima and Mangochi districts.

The beneficiary groups included Nguwo, Ngodzi, and Chifatso Care Group in Salima District, as well as Kacheta, Mwalamba, and Titukulane cooperatives in Mangochi District. The equipment, comprising digital weighing scales, impulse sealers, cooler boxes, buckets, and protective gear, will enhance hygiene, efficiency, and the overall quality of fish powder production.

The Department is working closely with the cooperatives to supply fish powder to nearby primary schools. Packaged in convenient 1kg units, the fish powder is being provided as a nutrient-rich supplement under a pilot arrangement. Each cooperative will supply consistent quantities over a specified period while adhering to strict safety and quality standards.

The cooperatives have also undergone training in food safety and hygiene, business management, procurement procedures, and compliance with standards set by the Malawi Bureau of Standards (MBS).

This initiative is part of the FAO-funded “Strengthening Capacity of Small-Scale Aquatic Food Producers for School Food and Nutrition Project,” which aims to improve nutrition among school children while enhancing livelihoods of small-scale fish producers.

Key partners include the Department of School Health, Nutrition and HIV & AIDS of Ministry of Education, Malawi Bureau of Standards (MBS), World Food Programme (WFP), and Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (LUANAR).

Ministry of Natural Resources- Malawi
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO)

11/04/2026

Minister of Natural Resources visits LUANAR to Strengthen Partnership for Fisheries and Aquaculture development

Today, 11th April 2026, the Minister for Natural Resources, Honourable Patricia Wiskes MP, paid an official visit to the Centre for Excellence in Aquaculture and Fisheries of Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (LUANAR). She was accompanied by officials from the Ministry including the Director of Fisheries, Dr. Hastings Zidana, and the Director of Planning, Dr. Hamilton Kamwana.

The Minister commended LUANAR for its critical role in developing skilled human resources and driving innovation in the fisheries and aquaculture sector. She emphasized that increased fish production in Malawi depends on strong partnerships between Government and research institutions, describing LUANAR as a key strategic partner in achieving national food and nutrition security goals.

In his remarks, the Vice Chancellor, Professor Emmanuel Kaunda expressed appreciation for the Minister’s visit and continued Government support. He emphasized the importance of strengthening collaboration in research, innovation and capacity building to transform the fisheries sector.

The Centre for Excellence in Aquaculture and Fisheries was also recognized for its achievements, including training and graduating a significant number of Master’s and PhD students who are contributing to the sector. It continues to support Government mega farm initiatives by providing technical expertise and has become a hub for fingerling production, playing a critical role in expanding aquaculture in Malawi.

The visit included a tour of key facilities such as the aquaculture laboratory and fish farm, followed by discussions focused on identifying strategic areas of collaboration and interventions to accelerate commercialization and sustainable growth in the fisheries and aquaculture sector.

Ministry of Natural Resources- Malawi
Hon. Patricia wiskes
Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources
Professor Emmanuel Kaunda

03/04/2026

Commemorating World Aquatic Animal Day 2026

Today, 3rd April 2026, the Department of Fisheries joins the global community in commemorating World Aquatic Animal Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness on the importance of aquatic animals and the need to protect their habitats.

Aquatic animals including fish play a vital role in sustaining livelihoods, ensuring food and nutrition security, and supporting the economic development of Malawi. From our lakes and rivers to fish farming systems, these resources remain central to the well-being of our communities. However, aquatic ecosystems continue to face growing challenges, including overfishing, habitat degradation, pollution, and the impacts of climate change. These threats not only endanger aquatic biodiversity but also compromise the benefits that millions of Malawians derive from the fisheries sector.

The Department of Fisheries therefore calls upon all stakeholders (fishing communities, fish farmers, partners, and the general public) to take an active role in conserving aquatic resources. Sustainable fishing practices, protection of breeding areas, adherence to fisheries regulations, and restoration of aquatic habitats are key to securing the future of our fisheries.

Ministry of Natural Resources- Malawi

02/04/2026

Minister Visits Department of Fisheries Headquarters office

The Department of Fisheries today, 2nd April, 2026, had the honour of hosting the Minister of Natural Resources, Honourable Patricia Wiskes, MP, who conducted an official office visit to the Department’s Headquarters at Capital Hill in Lilongwe.

Accompanied by the Principal Secretary and Director of Fisheries, the Minister toured offices, engaged with staff, and gained insight into key functions such as fisheries management, research, aquaculture, and extension services.

She commended staff for their dedication and emphasized teamwork, while assuring continued Government support to strengthen the sector.

The Department remains committed to sustainable fisheries management for food and nutrition security, employment and economic growth in Malawi.

Ministry of Natural Resources- Malawi
Hon. Patricia wiskes

28/02/2026

Namiasi MCS Centre Leads Successful Joint Operation to Combat Illegal Fishing

The Department of Fisheries, through the Namiasi Monitoring, Control and Surveillance (MCS) Centre, successfully conducted a joint enforcement operation on 27th February, 2026 dubbed “Operation Conserve Chambo” along the stretch from Monkey Bay to Msaka on Lake Malawi.

The operation targeted the illegal use of prohibited monofilament gillnets, which threaten fish stocks, especially the highly valued chambo species. The exercise was conducted in collaboration with the Malawi Defence Force – Navy Unit, Marine Police, and MCS Inspectors, demonstrating Government’s coordinated commitment to protecting fisheries resources.

A total of 22.7 kilometres of illegal monofilament gillnets were confiscated. Six fishers were arrested, pleaded guilty before the Monkey Bay Magistrate Court, and were each fined MK200,000 or face a 36-month custodial sentence in default. The court ordered the destruction of the confiscated gear.

The success of Operation Conserve Chambo sends a clear message that illegal fishing will not be tolerated. The Department remains committed to sustainable fisheries management and the protection of Lake Malawi’s biodiversity.

The operation was financially supported by Ripple Africa.

Ministry of Natural Resources- Malawi
Ripple Africa

19/02/2026

Salima District Conducts High-Impact Fisheries Patrol

Today, 19th February 2026, the Salima District Fisheries Monitoring, Control and Surveillance (MCS) Team conducted a high-impact water patrol aimed at safeguarding our fisheries resources. The patrols took place in Lake Malawi in the areas of Traditional Authority Maganga and Kuluunda.

The primary objective of the operation was to remove illegal fishing gear, particularly monofilament nets and other destructive equipment that threaten fish stocks and undermine aquatic biodiversity. Through vigilance, teamwork, and a shared commitment to sustainable fisheries management, the team successfully confiscated 165 units of monofilament netting and 1 kandwindwi net.

Monofilament nets are especially harmful because they are non-biodegradable, nearly invisible underwater, and highly indiscriminate. They continue to trap fish and other aquatic organisms long after being abandoned, a phenomenon known as ghost fishing. Their persistence in water bodies causes long-term damage to fish populations and aquatic habitats.

This enforcement activity was made possible with the generous support of Ripple Africa, reinforcing our collective commitment to protecting fisheries resources and conserving aquatic ecosystems.

Together, we are not just patrolling our waters. we are protecting the future of our fisheries.

Ministry of Natural Resources- Malawi
Salima District Council
Ripple Africa

09/02/2026

Inception Workshop for the Sustainable Small-scale Aquaculture Initiative in Phalombe

The Department of Fisheries, in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), has launched an inception workshop for the Model Community Small-Scale Demonstration Fish Farm for Food and Nutrition Security and Livelihood project. The workshop, held today, 9th February, 2026 in Blantyre, marked an important step toward strengthening sustainable aquaculture development in Malawi.
This pilot initiative aims to strengthen food and nutrition security and enhance rural livelihoods through the establishment of a sustainable small scale aquaculture system.
The initiative will establish demonstration fish ponds in M’mwenye Village, Phalombe District, where smallholder farmers and extension officers will gain hands-on training in best aquaculture practices.

Speaking during the official opening, Director of Fisheries, Dr. Hastings Zidana, expressed appreciation to FAO for the initiative and for its continued support to the Department of Fisheries over the years. He emphasized the Government of Malawi’s commitment to developing aquaculture as a key pillar for national food systems transformation, highlighting the importance of empowering farming communities with practical skills, improved technologies, and strong extension support to unlock the sector’s full potential.

Representing FAO, Senior Fisheries Officer, Dr. KwasungSuk Oh reaffirmed FAO’s commitment to supporting Malawi in advancing sustainable aquaculture under the Blue Transformation agenda. He noted that the demonstration model will serve as a learning hub for farmers, extension officers, and stakeholders, promoting knowledge sharing and long-term sustainability of aquaculture enterprises. According to him, the initiative aligns with Malawi’s Country Programming Framework (2022–2026) by supporting sustainable food systems, improved nutrition, and resilient livelihoods. It also contributes to the aspirations of Malawi 2063, which prioritizes agricultural productivity, commercialization, and job creation, while reflecting FAO’s Blue Transformation Roadmap and the Guidelines for Sustainable Aquaculture (GSA) that promote inclusive, environmentally responsible, and economically viable aquaculture development.

Discussions focused on project implementation strategies, training materials, and sustainability measures to ensure the initiative delivers lasting benefits to communities.
This collaborative effort reflects Malawi’s broader vision of enhancing food and nutrition security while creating decent employment opportunities through inclusive and sustainable aquaculture development. The workshop brought together smallholder farmers, fisheries extension officers, district council representatives, and technical experts from the Department of Fisheries and FAO.

Ministry of Natural Resources- Malawi
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO)

06/02/2026

Minister of Natural Resources Conducts Familiarisation Tour of Fisheries Institutions

On 5 February 2026, the newly appointed Minister of Natural Resources, Hon. Patricia Wiskes, MP, conducted a familiarisation tour of key fisheries institutions under the Department of Fisheries in Mangochi District. The tour aimed to gain first-hand appreciation of ongoing programmes, understand existing challenges, and explore opportunities within the fisheries sector. She was accompanied by the Deputy Minister of Natural Resources, Hon. Chipiliro Mpinganjira, MP, and other senior government officials.

The visit began with a courtesy call at Mangochi District Council, where the Minister held discussions with district officials on the status of fisheries activities and natural resource management at district level. She later visited the Mangochi District Fisheries Office, where she interacted with staff and commended them for their commitment to delivering fisheries services to local communities.

As part of the tour, the Minister also visited the Namiasi Monitoring, Control and Surveillance (MCS) Centre and the Malawi College of Fisheries.

At the Namiasi MCS Centre, Hon. Wiskes praised officers for their dedication to protecting Malawi’s fisheries resources through effective surveillance and enforcement. She emphasized that monitoring and control efforts are critical in combating illegal fishing and stressed that fisheries resources are a national asset that must be safeguarded for present and future generations. She further encouraged fishing communities to view enforcement initiatives not as punitive, but as essential measures for sustainability. The Minister also inspected the ongoing construction of the Namiasi office building.

At the Malawi College of Fisheries, the Minister highlighted the importance of capacity building and skills development in driving innovation and sustainability in the fisheries sector. She underscored the college’s role in producing skilled professionals needed to transform the sector and commended its extension work. Hon. Wiskes also welcomed plans to establish mega cage culture farms in designated zones of Lake Malawi, including at the college, as a strategy to increase fish production, reduce pressure on declining wild stocks, and support fishing communities. She reaffirmed Government’s commitment to initiatives that enhance livelihoods and strengthen food and nutrition security.

The familiarisation tour forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen coordination within the Ministry and ensure that departmental programmes align with Government priorities for sustainable natural resource management. The Department of Fisheries looks forward to continued guidance and support from the Honourable Minister as it works toward improved fisheries management, increased fish production, and better livelihoods for Malawians.

Ministry of Natural Resources- Malawi

Department of Fisheries - Malawi

13/05/2026

24/04/2026

22/04/2026

16/04/2026

11/04/2026

03/04/2026

02/04/2026

28/02/2026

19/02/2026

09/02/2026

06/02/2026

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Monday	07:30 - 16:30
Tuesday	07:30 - 16:30
Wednesday	07:30 - 16:30
Thursday	07:30 - 16:30
Friday	07:30 - 16:30