A fish farm in the Kwanza River, Angola, Africa.
Adobe Stock.
From January 15th to 17th, the 2nd General Congress of The Aquaculture Network for Africa (ANAF) will unfold in Naivasha, Kenya.
According to AU-IBAR, "this convening marks a significant juncture in ANAF's journey, building upon its evolution and crucial milestones since its inception. ANAF is set to redefine the landscape of aquaculture across the African continent."
Background
AU-IBAR explains that ANAF emerged after the 2005 Fish for All Summit. There was an "imperative need" for a robust regional network of aquaculture policy practitioners. The first goal was to expedite the formulation of aquaculture strategies intricately woven into national economic agendas.
AU-IBAR wants to ensure that African nations receive essential support, tools, and collaborative platforms to enhance their aquaculture sectors in ways that are inclusive, environmentally responsible, and conducive to holistic socio-economic advancement.
Also, it explains that the Congress seeks to operationalize ANAF's recently adopted constituent instruments and align its objectives with African Union (AU) strategies and policies.
Goals and Intentions
The imminent congress is poised to introduce and enlighten key stakeholders and Fisheries Directors about ANAF's recent strides. The agenda encompasses divulging revised goals, procedural changes, and upgraded governance mechanisms. The objectives of the General Assembly range from updating delegates on the criteria for appointing National Focal Points to electing a fresh Bureau and Steering Committee. This event is also primed to architect meeting structures, craft a strategic action plan, and delineate ANAF's pivotal role in propelling aquaculture across the continent.
Anticipated Milestones
The congress aspires towards ambitious yet transformative outcomes. These include acquainting AU Member States and stakeholders with constituent instruments, enacting criteria for appointing National Focal Points, facilitating elections for a new Bureau and Steering Committee, and outlining a comprehensive strategic action plan for ANAF's pivotal role in aquaculture development.
Diverse Participation
Comprehensive representation is the ethos guiding this congress of over 100 delegates. AU Member States, Regional Economic Communities, Fisheries Bodies, Intergovernmental Organizations, alongside a spectrum of stakeholders from CSOs, private sectors, and specialized institutions are poised to engage. The inclusive design welcomes experts, organizations, and individuals vested in and knowledgeable about aquaculture development.
A Pivotal Moment for ANAF
This gathering is a fundamental juncture for ANAF as it solidifies its integral role in sculpting the future of aquaculture on the continent. Beyond fostering collaboration, the congress aims to lay the groundwork for sustainable aquaculture strategies. These strategies aim not only to alleviate poverty but also to ensure food security and propel rural development across Africa. Stay tuned for the impactful outcomes of this landmark event!
African Union-Interafrican Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR) is a specialized technical office of the African Union Commission (AUC), headed by the Director who reports directly to the AUC through the Department of Rural Economy and Agriculture (DREA).
Founded in 1951 to study the epidemiological situation and fight rinderpest in Africa, AU-IBAR's mandate covers all aspects of animal resources, including livestock, fisheries, and wildlife, across the entire African continent. We also fill a unique and strategic niche by working at the continental and regional levels, with the RECs being key partners.
