Find Fisheries expertise in Botswana

Botswana’s fisheries were estimated to contribute a fraction of a percent (0.002 %) to the GDP, and the sum contribution from agriculture, forestry, hunting and fisheries was about 2% in 2007. The relatively small contribution of fisheries is a result of Botswana being landlocked, and having few inland water bodies. The largest fishery resource in Botswana is the Okavango Delta Fishery, which accounts for about 80% of Botswana’s catch. These fishing grounds are also a crucial livelihood for many communities along the Okavango Delta, accounting for over 3000 jobs in the primary sector.

The catch profile is mainly Tilapia, Sargochromis, and Clarias, while Tigerfish and other smaller species are consumed locally or bartered for agricultural produce. All the fish caught from the Okavango Delta is consumed by the local market. The final fifth of catch is predominantly from Botswana’s dams including the Gaborone Dam, Bokaa Dam, Shashe Dam and Letsibogo Dam. The Chobe system – which includes a fairly extensive water area – contributes a fraction to national catch as much of the system is in the Chobe National park where fishing is not allowed, and Lake Liambezi, which was a very productive fishing ground in the past, has since dried up.

Aquaculture in Botswana is underdeveloped and does not contribute a notable amount to national fish

According to Botswana’s Ministry of Environment, Wildlife and Tourism who are responsible for fisheries, fishing should ideally be governed by the Fish Protection Act of 1975, which seeks to ensure management, conservation and sustainable utilisation of fish resources. Supportive regulations provided for under the Act were drafted in 2001 and are being considered by Attorney-General.