Mahikeng: The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development as part of its initiatives to address rural development, job creation and food security, has launched the aquaculture and fisheries programme in the province. This first of its kind programme was launched in partnership with Rhodes University on Friday, 23rd November 2012, at Disaneng dam, 40km west of Mahikeng.
The initiative was born out of an extensive survey conducted by Rhodes University on the ten large dams found in the province. The study discovered that the province’s warm climate, natural resources and its proximity to the market, qualified it to develop its fishery potential.
The proposed dams where subsistence fishery will be developed include Disaneng, Ngotwane, Madikwe, Lotlamoreng, Molatedi and Taung. "The outcome of the survey also revealed that the province’s large dams are well stocked with large population of fish, which could allow for subsistence, recreational or commercial fishery", expressed MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Desbo Mohono.
Mohono said it is hoped that the aquaculture and fishery programme will contribute significantly towards food production and job creation for rural communities in the province, adding that the North West Province Aquaculture and Fishery Strategy which has already been put together, will ensure that fish farmers are developed and trained to master the sector.
One of the highlights of the launch was when MEC Desbo Mohono and key partners on the morning of the launch, harvested fish from the Disaneng dam, to signal the official launch of the programme. The launch was attended by stakeholders in the fishery industry, fishermen from across the province and Disaneng community members.
Article from: northwestnewspapers.co.za
Photo: Archives