Fana: At a Speed of Life!

GERD yields over 5,800 tons of fish this FY as fisheries dev’t accelerates

Addis Ababa, June 28, 2025 (FMC) — More than 5,895 tons of fish were harvested from the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) and surrounding artificial lakes during the 2017 (2024/25) Ethiopian fiscal year, according to the Benishangul Gumuz Regional Agriculture Bureau.

Hailu Yirga, Director of Animal and Fisheries Development at the bureau, told Fana Digital that the Bounty of the Basket initiative has played a key role in strengthening fish resource development efforts across the region.

He noted that recent studies indicate the region—particularly areas around the Renaissance Dam—has the capacity to produce up to 15,000 tons of fish annually.

With the official inauguration of the GERD expected in September, as recently confirmed by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, Hailu emphasized the dam’s growing contribution to fisheries development.

He added that the necessary technical support and oversight are being provided to ensure sustainable fish production within the reservoir.

During the fiscal year, 849 young people were organized into 35 fishing cooperatives, with 547 already employed and benefiting from the initiative. These groups received training in fishing techniques, net usage, and fish feed production.

Hailu also highlighted that, through collaborative support from various stakeholders, 54 boats and 1,600 nets were distributed to enhance fishing activities.

The growing fisheries sector at GERD is viewed as a critical component of local economic development, food security, and employment generation in the region.

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