The upcoming Aquaculture Africa Conference, known as WA25, is set to tackle the challenges faced by the aquaculture sector while highlighting new technologies that promote sustainable and resilient practices. The event is proudly sponsored by the EU-funded TRUEFISH Project, led by the Lake Victoria Fisheries Organisation (LVFO), with the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) signing on as the Gold Sponsor.
GIZ, through its Global Programme Sustainable Fisheries and Aquaculture, has been a consistent supporter of aquaculture development in Africa, with previous sponsorships of Aquaculture Africa Conferences in Egypt, Zambia, and Tunisia. This partnership underscores GIZ’s dedication to sustainable aquaculture practices, emphasizing value chain approaches, capacity building, and the promotion of environmentally friendly and socially responsible initiatives.
The participation of esteemed developmental organizations such as the World Bank, African Union agencies, FAO, and WorldFish at WA25 is a testament to the importance of the event. These organizations will deliver special side-sessions and workshops focusing on key thematic areas like global and regional processes, technologies, innovations, investment, trade, value chain competitiveness, and partnerships.
Uganda, chosen as the host country for WA25, provides an ideal setting to showcase the rapid development of aquaculture in East Africa. The country boasts a thriving aquaculture sector, with both large-scale ventures along Lake Victoria and a growing number of small to medium scale farms that serve as models for sustainable practices. These farms not only contribute to local food fish production but also support the viability of aquafeed supply chains. With the establishment of large-scale aquafeed factories in Uganda, the country’s potential in the aquaculture industry is undeniable. The WA25 trade show is anticipated to feature close to 150 exhibition booths, providing a platform for industry players to showcase their products and services.
Interested individuals can still register for the conference and submit abstracts through the event page at https://www.was.org/meeting/code/afraq25. For inquiries regarding WA25 Uganda, please contact worldaqua@was.org or africanchapter@was.org.
In conclusion, WA25 presents a unique opportunity for stakeholders in the aquaculture industry to come together to address challenges, explore new technologies, and promote sustainable practices. With the support of leading organizations like LVFO, GIZ, and other prominent sponsors, the event promises to be a valuable platform for knowledge sharing, networking, and collaboration in advancing aquaculture in Africa and beyond.
