SADC Hands Over Refrigerated Fish Truck to Zimbabwe to Boost Fisheries Sector
The Southern African Development Community (SADC) Secretariat has officially handed over a refrigerated truck to the Government of Zimbabwe to strengthen the country’s fisheries sector and reduce post-harvest losses.
The handover ceremony took place in Harare and forms part of the African Development Bank (AfDB)-funded PROFISHBLUE Project, which aims to improve fisheries governance and blue economy trade corridors in the region.
The refrigerated truck was presented to the Zimbabwe Fish Producers Association (ZFPA), representing around 3,600 fishers and aquaculture producers nationwide. The vehicle will significantly improve cold chain logistics, helping fishers preserve their catch, reduce spoilage, and access wider markets, thereby increasing household incomes.
SADC’s Deputy Executive Secretary for Regional Integration, Ms. Angéle Makombo N’Tumba, led the delegation and highlighted the truck’s strategic role in addressing logistical gaps that impact food security and nutrition.
Receiving the donation, Prof. Dr. Obert Jiri, Secretary for Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, lauded the support, stating it will help fish producers secure better prices and minimize losses during transportation.
ZFPA Chairperson Mr. Garikai Munatsirei expressed gratitude to both the SADC Secretariat and the Zimbabwean government, promising responsible use of the resource for the benefit of the entire fisheries value chain.
This milestone aligns with broader regional efforts to promote a sustainable blue economy through the PROFISHBLUE Project, which has also benefited Malawi, Zambia, and Tanzania, with upcoming support planned for DRC, Madagascar, and Mozambique.
Key stakeholders in attendance emphasized the importance of cold chain infrastructure for driving inclusive economic development and regional integration in the fisheries sector.
