Fish farmers from Lake Kivu, including members of fishing cooperatives in Rusizi and Rubavu districts, have significantly improved their practices thanks to support from the NICE project.
NICE has met the fishing needs of the farmers by providing fish fingerlings and feed in Rusizi and nets in Rubavu. Additionally, the project has provided training and offers ongoing coaching, in collaboration with district authorities and the Rwanda Agricultural Board (RAB). The continued support and organization of such initiatives by NICE are crucial for the sustainable development of fishing and the well-being of the community.
In Nkombo sector of Rusizi district, accessing affordable fish was a significant challenge. To support the fish farmers, the NICE project provided fish fingerlings and feed at the end of December 2022. After eight months in August 2023, they were able to harvest, which greatly improved access to fish in the area.
Mukeshimana Speciose, a resident of Nkombo sector, notes:
“I am happy that I can now easily buy fish produced by the Union of Rusizi Fishing Cooperatives. They offer fish at an affordable price and sometimes even give us a kilo depending on what we can afford. Before, it was difficult for us to find fish to feed our families, as we had to travel a long way to town where fish was expensive.”
Musabyimana Speciose, a member of the UCOOPEPERU Forum, highlights the impact of the NICE-initiated fish farming project:
“Since our Forum started the fish farming project in cages, I got a job. This has increased my capacity to access fish compared to before when selling fish required a certain amount of money. We appreciate NICE for their collaboration.”
Nahimana Patrice from the Federation of Fishing Cooperatives talks about the revival of fishing activities, saying that the situation changed since they collaborated with the NICE project:
“In the past, our fishing activities faced declining production. However, since starting a fish breeding project in collaboration with NICE, we have seen significant improvements. Our fish production has increased and we now have facilities for further expansion. We are grateful for the progress we have made and look forward to the economic development of our Union.”
In Rubavu district, Mukamurenzi Angelique, a member of the Hinduka Murobyi Cooperative, showcases the positive impact of NICE’s support through her small fish (Isambaza) business:
“When I started selling, I was able to reach many customers. Now, my eldest child is at university and the distribution business has allowed me to buy a house. I also pay for the education of my other children. This business has truly transformed my life.”
Mbarushimana Anastase, the accountant of the Forum of Fishing Cooperatives in Rubavu district, recalls the improvements brought by NICE:
“When we began working with NICE, many things started to change. Some of the problems we faced were resolved. Previously, we had produce that we would take to the market, but we lacked storage facilities. Now, with the support of NICE, we have two freezers, which enable us to preserve the produce and maintain its quality so we can sell it the following days without losing customers. In the past, without storage, we had to sell our produce quickly at low prices to prevent spoilage.”
“NICE provided us with four nets (traps), which have been very helpful. The fish caught often result in a surplus that is distributed to all the cooperatives within NICE. Many of the beneficiaries are mothers and the surplus fish is valuable because it is taken home to feed their families. We believe that when the fish reaches the hands of parents, it frequently benefits their children as well. This helps combat malnutrition among many people and supports our development”, added Anastase.
The NICE fishing initiatives in these districts demonstrate the impact of strategic partnerships and sustainable practices. Through the support of NICE, local communities are not only improving food security, nutrition and economic growth, but also strengthening their resilience and transforming their livelihoods.