The main function of the Department of Fisheries is to oversee the implementation of the national fisheries programmes in capture fisheries and aquaculture development. The department is also responsible for the enforcement and regulation of the Fisheries Act, cap 22 of 2011of the laws of Zambia. It carries out research in capture fisheries management  and in aquaculture development, in order to achieve a sustainable fisheries idustry and economic benefits.

Mission Statement

The mission of the Department of Fisheries is to oversee the implementation of the national fisheries programmes in capture fisheries and aquaculture development.

Objectives

The overall objective of the Department is to promote sustainable utilisation of fisheries resources in Zambia. The objective is to be achieved by employing responsive research, extension strategies, training programmes and promoting public/private partnerships at all levels of development and management of the fisheries sub-sector.

Structural Organisation and Functions

The Department of Fisheries is headed by a Director and has two Branches namely Fisheries Research and Fisheries Extension and Management.  It is responsible for:

• Coordination of research and management of capture fisheries resources.
• Administration of fisheries legislation in relation to fisheries resources in natural lakes, rivers, swamps and flood plains.
• Coordinating aquaculture development and research with respect to the development of husbandry of fish and other aquatic organisms in dams, ponds, weirs and cages.
• Building capacities for fisheries training institutions, Departmental staff, fish farmers, private and local communities in order to improve the performance of the sub-sector.
• Development of a comprehensive fisheries management information system that enhances the storage, retrieval and dissemination of information for the benefit of all stakeholders in the fishing industry.