Nkhata-Bay cracks down on illegal fishing nets to protect Lake Malawi fish stocks

Authorities in Nkhata Bay District have intensified efforts to protect declining fish stocks in Lake Malawi after confiscating 240 illegal monofilament fishing nets during a joint enforcement operation.

The nets, measuring about 24,000 metres in total, were seized by the Nkhata Bay District Council through its Department of Fisheries during patrols in the lakeshore areas of Sanga and Chintheche.

Principal Fisheries Officer Dellings Kamenya said the operation was conducted with community fisheries structures and support from Ripple Africa.

Kamenya said no arrests were made because the fishermen fled after spotting the patrol team, abandoning the illegal nets.

“We confiscated about 240 monofilament nets, equivalent to roughly 24,000 metres. The suspects ran away, leaving the illegal gear behind,” he said.

He warned that although the nets catch large quantities of fish, they threaten the aquatic ecosystem by trapping all fish types, including immature ones. The nets are also non-biodegradable and remain in the water for long periods, continuing to harm the environment.

Kamenya urged fishing communities to follow fisheries regulations and use approved gear, warning that anyone caught selling or using illegal nets will face legal action.

Meanwhile, Programmes Manager for Ripple Africa, Sam Manda, said the organisation will continue supporting government efforts to curb illegal fishing through its Fish for Tomorrow Project.

Manda said the project promotes collaboration with fishing communities and raises awareness about sustainable fishing practices to protect fish stocks that support thousands of livelihoods along the lake.

The confiscation is part of ongoing enforcement and awareness efforts aimed at preserving fisheries resources in Lake Malawi for future generations.