Botswana lifts ban on fishing and export of dry fish
Gaborone, Botswana (PANA) The Botswana ministry of Environment, Natural Resources Conservation and Tourism announced here Friday it had lifted the ban on the exportation of dry fish and fishing in the country’s dams and rivers.
Felix Monggae, permanent secretary in the ministry, said the fishing season would commence with effect from 1st March 2019 and end on 31st December 2019.
However, he said only fishers with valid fishing permits and licenses would be allowed to fish in water bodies specified in their fishing permits and licenses, using the appropriate recommended and approved methods, practices and equipment.
The ministry further advised those who wanted commercial and recreational fishing licenses for specific water bodies to seek assistance from the Department of Wildlife and National Parks offices nearest to such water bodies.
“The public is also reminded to obtain permits from Water Utilities Corporation that allows them to enter and fish in any specified designated fishing dams in Botswana.
“Furthermore, the public is informed that the prohibition of export of dry fish is no longer in effect. Therefore export of dried fish is allowed. Any person who wishes to export from Botswana any fresh or dry fish must obtain an export permit from the Department of Wildlife and National Parks,” Monggae stated.
However, the ministry said the ban on hunting of wild game animals remained in force.
The Botswana government is said to be losing millions of dollars in compensation for damages caused by wildlife, especially the ever increasing elephants.
-0- PANA MS/RA 1Mar2019
