Soyo: At least 6,295 tons of fish were caught from January to June this year in Zaire province, marking an increase of 2,669 tons compared to the same period in 2024, the local director of Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries, Pedro Gouveia da Silva, announced. This significant rise in fish catch underscores the growing activity in the region’s fishing industry.

According to Angola Press News Agency, this year the Zaire government has licensed 322 artisanal fishing vessels to operate in the waters of the municipalities of Soyo, Quªlo, Tomboco, and Nzeto. This move aims to boost local fishing activities and support the livelihoods of those involved in the industry.

In terms of semi-industrial and industrial fishing, the director stated that the Ministry of Fisheries has only authorized the company “Seatag e Pesca, LDA” to engage in these activities off the coast of the municipality of Soyo. This limited authorization is part of efforts to regulate fishing practices in the region.

“We are demanding that shipowners comply with the legal requirements so that vessels can once again operate in our seas on a large scale,” Pedro Gouveia da Silva emphasized. He highlighted the need for orderly fishing practices to ensure the sustainability of marine resources and the protection of growing marine species.

Zaire province features a 250-km coastline that runs through the municipalities of Soyo, Quªlo, Tomboco, and Nzeto, making it a significant area for fishing activities in the region.