https://www.linkedin.com/posts/conservezim-conservezim-402997277_fish-feed-producers-safeguard-consumers-against-activity-7292867101378174977-JUBm?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop Fish Feed Producers Safeguard Consumers Against Fish-Human Diseases John Cassim Aquaculture stakeholders attending the National Aquaculture Sector Survey validation workshop in Kadoma on Wednesday revealed that the production of quality fish feed has helped reduce the risk of zoonotic infections (diseases transmissible from animals to humans) from fish in Zimbabwe. The use of commercial feed has also led to improved yields for aquaculture farmers. While research has shown that some aquaculture farmers have used alternative feeds like poultry, livestock, and kitchen waste, the availability of commercial feed has facilitated the production of pathogen-free, high-quality fish. The survey says commercial feed was the dominant type across all surveyed provinces, with high usage rates noted in the Midlands and Matabeleland South provinces. Own formulations were relatively more common in Manicaland, despite the province's favorable climatic conditions for aquaculture. “At Aquafeeds, we are committed to formulating nutritionally balanced diets tailored to meet the specific developmental requirements of fish at all life stages,” explained Mazvita Mufukare, an Aquaculturist at Aquafeeds, a fish production entity for Profeeds Pvt Ltd. “Our ingredients undergo rigorous quality screening, and our advanced extrusion and drying processes effectively eliminate potential pathogens. When farmers integrate our precise nutrition with superior genetics and optimal husbandry practices, we contribute significantly to maintaining the health and productivity of aquaculture stocks.” According to the survey, Midlands province had the highest usage of commercial fish feed at 83%, followed by Matabeleland South at 70.37%, Masvingo at 52%, Matabeleland North at 45%, and Manicaland at 39%. Manicaland had the highest use of own formulations like kitchen and animal waste at 27%, compared to Masvingo at 10%, Midlands at 4%, and Matabeleland South at 1.23%. Farmers in Matabeleland North who participated in the survey stated that they use kitchen waste, as fish feed. The cost of fish feed per kilogram is highest in Masvingo province compared to other provinces. The average cost of feed in Masvingo is US$1.93, and the least Matabeleland North at US$1.10 per kilogram. Aquaculture in Zimbabwe is dominated by the Nile Tilapia, which is native to Africa. This fish is well-suited for aquaculture due to its natural characteristics, and with farming practices that align with its preferred rearing conditions significantly reduce the need for medication. When combined with good water quality and balanced, well-formulated nutrition, tilapia exhibits excellent growth and overall health. “We also need further research into the effects of these alternative feeds on humans to reduce any fish-human infections, if any have been recorded so far,” stated Mr. Makumbe, Director of Fisheries and Aquaculture Resources Production Department (FARD)