As we begin the home-stretch to the much awaited 2nd Aquaculture Africa Conference (AFRAQ23), scheduled for Zambia (13-16 November 2023), I thought I should reflect more on the theme of the event: Resilient value chains in the blue economy. This theme augurs well with what the sector has experienced in recent years – a myriad of emerging threats in addition to known traditional and long-term challenges.

The conference offers a great opportunity for aquaculture researchers, practitioners, decision makers and other stakeholders to meet, network and discuss all aspects of aquaculture in Africa. Exhibitors from all over the globe are expected to exhibit their products in the amazing exhibition Center. Visits to some famous touristic attractions in Lusaka and Zambia will be arranged. Special excursionary or aquaculture tours will also be arranged to nearby fish farms

As we began our new fiscal year in April, I thought it was imperative to reflect on the general trends of aquaculture development in Africa. There is no doubt that our service and deliverables do in some way contribute to the development trajectory of African aquaculture. I am thankful to the FAO Aquaculture Statistics Division for keeping us updated on trends and statistics. Here is where Africa stands at the moment, based on FAO aquaculture statistics from 2021

March 2023 marks the end of the 2022-2023 fiscal year for the African Chapter of WAS. It also marks the end of my first year as African Chapter President. What a productive year it was — mostly as we witnessed many events and activities, getting back to a full normal post-Covid period. A lot of activities are lined up for this coming season as we continue striving to deliver on our mandate of providing a platform for enhanced

As we round up our celebrations for the International Year of Artisanal Fisheries and Aquaculture, it is imperative that African aquaculture actors, especially producers, be recognized and appreciated for their contribution in feeding humanity and creating livelihoods for millions in Africa. We are all aware of the huge numbers of malnourished people in Africa and the potential of fish in food systems to address such malnourishment.

The African Chapter has been engaged with many events and activities in the region as we continue to capture the momentum generated from the AFRAQ21 conference held in Egypt in March. We have realized a surge in membership from new registrations and renewals over the past quarter, indicating a growth in confidence in our chapter.

The baton has just been handed to me! And as the new President of the African Chapter of WAS, what a privilege and honor to lead one of the fastest growing and most dynamic chapters of WAS for the next two years. I am highly indebted to the WAS Board and membership for this opportunity.

All roads are now leading to the First Aquaculture Africa All roads are now leading to the First Aquaculture Africa Conference and Exposition in Alexandria, Egypt, rescheduled to 25-28 March 2022. It’s happening finally! I am indebted to the Conference organizing team, who have worked so hard over the past few months to get things in order. The covid situation is at present relatively manageable to warrant us having a successful event.

Covid-19 has hit us hard again — this time through the new Omicron variant that has begun spreading across the world. The variant was first discovered in South Africa a few weeks ago and in an effort to stop its transmission, countries have moved swiftly to reimpose travel restrictions. This has largely impacted any further logistical preparations for the long-awaited first Aquaculture Africa Conference (AFRAQ21).

Just over two years ago, we announced the planning of the first Aquaculture Africa Conference (AFRAQ21), which was to take place in 2020 in Egypt, but had to be rescheduled to December 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Everyone has been anxiously waiting for this momentous event. And thanks to the Egyptian government, who have now granted the necessary permission for WAS to proceed in organizing the conference as an in-person event on 11-14 December 2021 in Alexandria City.