The African Development Bank (AfDB), supported by the FAO, has implemented an inland fisheries improvement project in Rwanda that focuses on improving the fisheries infrastructure and building the capacity of local fishermen.
Infrastructure to reduce post-harvest losses and increase the value of fish, such as cold storage, drying racks and ice-making machines, has been installed.
FAO's role is to improve the fisheries information system.
8 May 2012: The African Development Bank (AfDB) has initiated the Inland Lakes Integrated Development and Management Support Project (PAIGELAC) to assist in restoring and improving Rwanda’s fisheries sector.
The project, supported by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN (FAO), reports improvements to both the fisheries infrastructure and capacity. To date, 147 co-operatives have been established to manage pond aquaculture sights, while 43 co-operatives are engaged in tilapia farming. Fishermen have been trained in fisheries management as well as improved fishing techniques.
In the remainder of the project, management plans will be developed for implementation by local co-operatives running the fisheries; 17 co-operatives have been assisted in formulating a lake management plan. Infrastructure to reduce post-harvest losses and increase the value of fish, such as cold storage, drying racks and ice-making machines, is also being installed. Assistance from FAO has focused on providing an improved fisheries information system.
The project is expected to be completed by December 2012. [AfDB Press Release]