Zambezi River tiger fish faces extinction

The National Anglers Union of Zimbabwe (NAUZ) has launched a raffle to support anti-poaching initiatives along the Zambezi River to protect the dwindling Tigerfish population.

The National Anglers Union of Zimbabwe (NAUZ) has launched a raffle to support anti-poaching initiatives along the Zambezi River to protect the dwindling Tigerfish population.

The raffle, which continues a legacy of conservation efforts pioneered by the late Clive Oxden-Willows, aims to support anti-poaching units in Msuna and Bumi to protect the iconic tiger fish from devastating illegal netting.

“Funds raised will be channelled directly into anti-poaching efforts, financing patrol boats, fuel for game scouts, and the critical physical removal of illegal gillnets from the Zambezi River and Lake Kariba,” said Denise Rae, NAUZ chairperson.

“These nets indiscriminately kill wildlife and have pushed the prized tigerfish population into decline."

NAUZ secretary, Karen Mirtle, emphasised the importance of the raffle.

“This isn’t just a raffle; it's a rescue mission,” she said.

“Every ticket sold is a step towards a healthier, thriving river.

“We are giving every angler and conservationist a chance to be a part of the solution.”

The NAU is a dedicated organisation committed to the conservation of aquatic ecosystems and the promotion of sustainable angling practices.

Through advocacy, education, and direct action, the NAU works to protect fish stocks and preserve the angling heritage for future generations.

It has a deep-rooted commitment to conservation, demonstrated by its pioneering role in instituting a mandatory catch-and-release policy for the Kariba International Tiger fish Tournament (KITFT) four years ago.

This landmark policy was established to ensure the sustainability of the Tigerfish species, allowing future generations to experience the thrill of the fight.

The grand prize is top-of-the-line Toshiba air conditioner, courtesy of Ref-Air and Toshiba.

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