In the heart of eastern Rwanda, a remarkable transformation is taking place at Gishanda Lake. Once a victim of overfishing and poaching, the lake is now on the path to restoration and sustainability. This article explores the inspiring journey of Eric Ndagijimana, who is spearheading the Gishanda Fish Farm initiative. Supported by key organizations, this project not only aims to replenish the lake’s fish population but also uplift the local community by offering sustainable agriculture opportunities, job creation, and improved nutrition.
A Legacy Transformed: From Poaching to Sustainable Fish Farming
Eric Ndagijimana’s family relied on poaching fish from Gishanda Lake for their livelihood. However, poaching took a toll on the lake’s ecosystem and depleted its stocks of tilapia, leaving the community with dwindling resources and opportunities. In 2010, a government crackdown on poaching forced many, including Eric’s family, to return to Gishanda, where they had to face the consequences of their unsustainable actions.
Reviving a Depleted Ecosystem
Determined to reverse the damage done to the lake and the community, Eric Ndagijimana now manages Gishanda Fish Farm. Situated on the lake’s shores, the farm’s primary objective is to cultivate tilapia and restock the once-depleted waters. Since April, over 100,000 fingerlings have been released into the lake, marking a promising step towards ecosystem restoration. The ultimate goal is to produce an impressive 1.5 million fingerlings annually.
A Legal and Professional Approach
Eric Ndagijimana’s journey from the legacy of his father, who poached fish for a living, to his role as the manager of Gishanda Fish Farm, is a testament to his commitment to legality and professionalism. Ndagijimana’s vision is to ensure that his actions benefit not only his family but also the entire community.
Key Collaborators in Sustainable Change
The Gishanda Fish Farm project received vital support from various organizations, underscoring the importance of collaborative efforts in achieving sustainability. African Parks, FoodTechAfrica, a public-private partnership comprising 21 companies and universities, and the Dutch government have played instrumental roles in turning Ndagijimana’s vision into reality.
Affordable Fish for Local Communities
Beyond ecological restoration, the Gishanda Fish Farm also aims to improve the lives of the approximately 600 households living around the lake. By offering a portion of the farm’s annual tilapia production at half the market price (1,500 Rwandan francs per kilo instead of 3,000), the initiative not only makes legal fishing more attractive but also enhances the nutritional intake of the villagers.
Eco-Friendly Farming Practices
The Gishanda Fish Farm sets an example of environmentally conscious farming. It is powered by solar energy and incorporates a water recycling and filtration system, significantly reducing its environmental footprint. In this way, the project demonstrates how modern technology can be harnessed to support sustainable practices.
Empowering the Community
Beyond fish farming, the project is generating employment and additional amenities for the community. Two villages now have access to electricity, and plans are underway to extend this access further. Moreover, a local school now benefits from a borehole, providing clean water. Training opportunities in breeding catfish and growing organic vegetables are also on the horizon, empowering the community to diversify their skills.
Guardians of Lake Gishanda
The community’s engagement in sustainable fishing practices is a testament to the success of the Gishanda Fish Farm initiative. With free training and awareness, community members are now actively participating in the conservation of their precious lake.
A Brighter Future for All
As Lake Gishanda undergoes rehabilitation, it has witnessed the return of otters, a species not seen in the area for years. Leah Dufitumukiza, a single mother, exemplifies the positive impact of the project. Employed as a tank cleaner and farm assistant, she has gained financial independence and personal growth, breaking free from dependency on her parents.
A Vision for the Future
Eric Ndagijimana’s vision extends beyond the farm’s success. He aspires to pass the management of the fish farm to the local villagers, allowing them to take ownership of their sustainable future. Collaborating with district officials, the project seeks to identify and rehabilitate more lakes in the region, ensuring that the rewards of their collective efforts continue to benefit the community.
Conclusion
The Gishanda Fish Farm initiative is not just about fish; it represents a holistic approach to sustainable development. It showcases how collaborative efforts, eco-friendly practices, and community engagement can transform not only a depleted ecosystem but also the lives of those who depend on it. Eric Ndagijimana’s journey from poacher to manager exemplifies the potential for positive change when individuals and organizations come together with a shared vision of sustainability. As Lake Gishanda continues to thrive, it offers hope for a brighter and more sustainable future for all.
