Rwanda’s fish production from aquaculture and capture fisheries increased to 52,439 tonnes in 2025, up from 48,133 tonnes in 2024, the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources (MINAGRI) said.
The rise reflects continued government efforts to expand aquaculture and improve fisheries management. MINAGRI projects that fish farming output will reach 80,620 tonnes by 2035, from the current 9,000 tonnes.
According to the ministry, aquaculture contributed 9,000 tonnes during the 2024–2025 period, while the rest of the supply came from capture fisheries. To support growth in the sector, 71.6 million fish fingerlings were produced and distributed in 2025.
The aquaculture and fisheries subsector posted a 34% growth rate in the third quarter of 2025, MINAGRI said.
Despite the production gains, per capita fish consumption remains low. The average Rwandan consumes 3.45 kilograms of fish per year, well below the government’s target of 10 kilograms.
To narrow the gap, MINAGRI has launched the KWIHAZA programme, aimed at boosting fish production and encouraging higher consumption.
Speaking to reporters, Jean Claude Ndorimana, Director of Animal Production at MINAGRI, said Rwanda’s lakes—including Lake Kivu and Lake Muhazi—offer significant potential for expanded aquaculture, and called for greater private sector investment.
He said the government would continue to allow fish imports alongside domestic production to meet market demand, particularly for marine fish required by hotels. Rwanda’s aquaculture sector currently focuses on Tilapia and African catfish.
Ndorimana added that while fish prices remain relatively high, increased production is expected to help ease prices over time.
