The Aquaculture Network for Africa (ANAF)
Supporting Sustainable Aquaculture Development Across Africa
The Aquaculture Network for Africa (ANAF) is a pan-African platform within the African Union Commission (AUC) system, representing the unified and independent voice of Directors of Aquaculture from African Union Member States (AU-MS). ANAF is dedicated to the coherent implementation of AU policies and strategies that promote sustainable aquaculture development across Africa.
ANAF’s Role within the African Fisheries Reform Mechanism (AFRM)
As a primary stakeholder within the African Fisheries Reform Mechanism (AFRM), ANAF plays a critical role in shaping and driving aquaculture policy from the grassroots level. The network serves as a hub for evidence generation and policy synthesis, enabling informed decision-making and strategic alignment with AU objectives.
ANAF collaborates with other continental and regional networks within AFRM, ensuring equitable engagement among diverse stakeholders. This approach fosters the creation of a unified and inclusive voice on sustainable aquaculture development, facilitating participatory continental policy dialogues. These efforts support AU Member States (AU-MS) in aligning with the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP) and the Policy Framework and Reform Strategy for Fisheries and Aquaculture in Africa (PFRS). Additionally, ANAF aids Regional Economic Communities (RECs) and Regional Fisheries Bodies (RFBs) in establishing coherent regional strategies.
Objectives and Mandate of ANAF
In 2023, ANAF formalized its institutional governance framework to enhance sustainability and equitable engagement across networks. The network's objectives and mandate reflect its commitment to sustainable aquaculture development.
Objectives
1. Apex Forum for Stakeholder Collaboration
ANAF serves as Africa’s premier platform for public and private sector stakeholders to share information and best practices on aquaculture policy and technology. This collaboration supports sustainable production of bio-secure aquatic animals and plants, contributing to food and nutrition security, employment, income, and wealth creation.
2. Promotion of Sustainable Growth
ANAF champions aquaculture development through research and best management practices (BMPs), fostering market-led sector growth.
3. Advocacy for Sustainable Aquaculture
The network advocates for the recognition of sustainable aquaculture as a critical tool to combat poverty, enhance food and nutrition security, create wealth, provide employment, and support sustainable livelihoods, particularly in rural areas.
Mandate
ANAF’s mandate focuses on fostering visibility, collaboration, and innovation in aquaculture, including:
1. Visibility and Policy Integration
Increasing the visibility of aquaculture in national policies related to food security, livelihoods, employment, and economic development.
2. Technical Cooperation
Operating a technical cooperation network to optimize resources for aquaculture development, including advocacy for prioritization in national policies.
3. Information Exchange
Coordinating and facilitating the exchange of scientific and technical information, including best practices.
4. Research and Farmer-Driven Initiatives
Supporting regional and sub-regional farmer-driven research to address challenges and improve practices.
5. Capacity Building
Facilitating the training of fish farmers and extension workers through workshops, study tours, and exhibitions.
6. Technology Transfer
Promoting technology transfer at national, bilateral, and regional levels to advance innovation and efficiency in aquaculture practices.
ANAF’s Vision for the Future
Through its structured governance and strategic partnerships, ANAF continues to be a cornerstone in Africa’s journey toward a sustainable, inclusive, and market-driven aquaculture sector. By fostering collaboration, innovation, and advocacy, ANAF empowers AU Member States, regional bodies, and stakeholders to achieve long-term goals of economic development, food security, and environmental sustainability.