Timor-Leste Prime Minister celebrates tilapia farming success

Prime Minister Taur Matan Ruak met with fish farmers in Leohitu, Bobonaro, and witnessed the harvesting of over six tonnes of farmed tilapia. The visit marks the start of the harvesting season for nearly 200 project farmers across Timor-Leste, which is expected to produce over 60 tonnes of fish from a nearly 5-hectare pond area. Average fish productivity during this cycle is estimated to reach over 12 tonnes per hectare—a three-fold increase in fish productivity compared to previous cycles. “The government is committed to supporting the growth of aquaculture as a means to strengthen food security and nutrition for households and boosting incomes for farmers,” said the Prime Minister. “As the Covid-19 pandemic continues, fish farmers are producing locally-grown food and supporting a sustainable and robust food system that is putting more tilapia onto the plates of rural households.” The event was organised by the Partnership for Aquaculture Development in Timor-Leste Phase 2 ...