1st January 2026, Chienge, Zambia – In a bid to promote sustainable fishing practices and conserve local fish resources, the Fisheries Department, in collaboration with the District Joint Operations Committee (DJOC), has intensified efforts to curb illegal fishing on Lake Mweru.
On December 27, 2025, a joint team comprising the Zambia Army, Police, and Immigration conducted an operation in Lupiya area, apprehending illegal fishermen and confiscating 37 illegal nets, 7 bundles of ropes, 20kg of fresh fish, and 7kg of semi-dry fish. The seized items were subsequently destroyed.
This operation is part of the government’s initiative to enforce the fishing ban on Lake Mweru, effective from December 1, 2025, to February 28, 2026, as stipulated under the Fisheries Act CAP: 200 of the Laws of Zambia. During this period, all fishing activities are prohibited.
The public is urged to cooperate with authorities by adhering to the regulations. Fish farmers are advised to notify the Fisheries office to obtain certificates of origin for their produce, while consumers are cautioned against buying fish from unauthorized vendors. Transporters are also warned against carrying individuals suspected of transporting fish without official documentation.
Those found contravening the regulations risk prosecution, confiscation of fish and transport, fines, and/or imprisonment. The Fisheries Department and DJOC are working together to protect Zambia’s aquatic resources.