On Friday, the Department of Fisheries received four vehicles and other essential items from the Restoring Fisheries for Sustainable Livelihoods in Lake Malawi (REFRESH) project, which concluded after five years of implementation.
Speaking during the handover ceremony in Lilongwe, Chief of Party (CoP) for the project, Dr. Daniel Jamu, highlighted the significance of the donation, which included three Ford Rangers, one vehicle for an implementing partner, 11 motorcycles, computers, and office furniture. These resources are aimed at enhancing the department’s operations and ensuring sustainability.
“The handover signifies the strong collaboration and partnership the project has had with the Department of Fisheries, following significant achievements in ecosystem management,” said Dr. Jamu. He expressed confidence that the government, through the Department of Fisheries, would effectively utilize the donated items for sustainability.
Dr. Jamu also encouraged the government to strengthen the enforcement of fisheries management.
Director of Fisheries Hastings Zidana commended the REFRESH project for its support in advancing Malawi’s fisheries sector. He noted that the vehicles would play a crucial role in project monitoring, ensuring sustainability and preventing gaps after the project’s conclusion.
Zidana also mentioned several key achievements of the project, including the development of regulations for the National Fisheries Aquaculture Policy, the commercialization of enterprises as an alternative livelihood for communities, and the signing of a management plan for devolution.
“The project received K90 million for capacity building and K500 million for commercial enterprises during its implementation,” added Zidana.
Funded by USAID, the REFRESH project invested $12 million, with the vehicles handed over valued at $190,000.
