GOVERNMENT says increased over exploration of fisheries has led to a decline of fish stocks and causing ecological damage across the country.

Minister of Fisheries and Livestock Peter Kapala says over exploration of fisheries has also led to the disappearance of many fish species with some species at the brink of extinction.

Speaking during the commemoration of World Fisheries day in Kafue District, Mr Kapala disclosed that fisheries and aquaculture play a crucial role in the provision of sustainable income for more than one million people who earn their livelihood directly.

ZANIS reports that Mr Kapala stated that the development requires urgent action to protect fish species by prioritizing fish conservation for sustainable fisheries development.

“There is an agent call on us to prioritize fisheries conservation for sustainable fisheries development and that we can only consume what you save,” said Mr Kapala.

The minister noted with concern that fish catches of targeted species have been declining in most water bodies in the country but the demand for fish continues to increase due to an increase in the human population.

“Fish catches of targeted species have been declining in most water bodies in the country but the demand for fish continues to increase due to an increase in the human population,” said Mr Kapala.

He added that Government has created a conducive policy environment to enable the growth of the aquaculture industry through strengthening fisheries management and creation of empowerment programmes.

Mr Kapala further called for increased collaboration with development and cooperating partners to co- manage fisheries resources.

Meanwhile, stakeholders have pledged commitment to continue working with the Government to conserve and protect the ecosystem.

World Wide Fund Country Director Nalucha Nganga-Ziba said her organization is working  on a  collaboration with other stakeholders to develop a fisheries management area to secure sustainable use of the critical resource.

“We plan to collaborate with other stakeholders to develop a fisheries management area to secure sustainable use of the critical resource,” said Ms Nganga-Ziba.

The 2024 World Fisheries Day was commemorated under the Theme ‘save fish, eat fish’.