24 Appear in Court for Contravening Fishing Ban
The Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock has confirmed that 24 people are currently appearing before the courts for contravening the 2025/2026 Annual Fishing Ban.
In Lusaka Province’s Kafue District, two suspects were arrested after being found in possession of illegal fishing gear, including mosquito nets measuring approximately 3,200 metres. The prohibited equipment was confiscated by District Fisheries Officers, and the suspects have since been taken to court.
Meanwhile, enforcement operations in Luapula Province recorded a total of 28 cases of non-compliance with the fishing ban. The cases were reported in Chienge District (14), Nchelenge District (6), and Samfya District (8).
The Ministry stated that eight offenders from Samfya District and 14 from Chienge District are currently appearing before the Magistrate’s Court, while six offenders from Nchelenge District were warned and cautioned. Confiscated items included mosquito nets and mono-filament fishing nets.
In a statement issued by Benny Munyama, Principal Public Relations Officer at the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, the Ministry emphasised that the fishing ban is a statutory annual measure aimed at allowing fish stocks to breed and replenish.
The Ministry further reminded fishing communities that compliance with the ban is essential, as they are the primary beneficiaries of increased fish stocks and improved fisheries productivity.
Mr Munyama added that the Ministry will continue to sensitise communities nationwide on the importance of the fishing ban, alongside firm and consistent enforcement throughout the current ban period, which runs from 1 December 2025 to 28 February 2026.
