NGOMA – Intervention from local authorities through improved regulation has seen prices of fish stabilizing giving fish traders along the banks of Lake Sake in Ngoma district a new lease of life.

According to Bernard Kabagari, the chairman of COPROPECHE fish cooperative, the price stability has been attributed to the proper regulation mechanisms which were put in place.

"Fishing was initially done in a haphazard manner, where poor fishing nets led to capture of immature and small fish. But the order we put in the process, today has increased our production significantly,” he said.

Laurent Harelimana, a member of the cooperative said that the proper organization among fishermen has helped them to have steady and competitive fish prices.

"A kilogram of fish is now at a stable Rwf1000. In the past we never had steady prices. Buyers could cheat us,” Harelimana, said.

Local leaders say that the cooperative has also helped residents access fish easily which has reduced cases of malnutrition in the sector.

You can now find fresh fish in Gafunzo, Jarama and Rukumberi local markets.

COPROPECHE cooperative started operating in 1995, and now has over 170 registered members.

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