List of fish companies in Zambia

Fish companies in Zambia uses modern techniques for farming fish to distribute across the nation. In Zambia, fish companies produce a variety of fish species for different markets within the country. 

fish companies in zambia
Image credit: Yalelo fisheries Zambia

Here is a list of prominent fish companies operating in Zambia, highlighting their contributions to aquaculture and fish distribution:

1. Yalelo Zambia

  • Overview: The largest aquaculture business in Sub-Saharan Africa, specializing in tilapia (bream) production. They operate fish farms in Lake Kariba and distribute fresh and processed fish via over 50 retail outlets.
  • Sustainability: They emphasize sustainable farming practices, avoiding antibiotics and growth hormones.
  • Locations: Retail stores and distribution hubs across Zambia and neighboring countries​

2. Capital Fisheries

  • Overview: Established in 1999, this company is a major distributor of fish and other food products. They source fish locally and internationally and operate a cold-chain network.
  • Product Range: Includes bream, horse mackerel, kapenta, and tilapia, among others.
  • Infrastructure: Their facilities support large-scale storage and distribution​

3. Lake Harvest Zambia

  • Overview: Operates near Siavonga on Lake Kariba. Focuses on natural fish breeding with environmentally sustainable practices.
  • Production: Currently produces 2,000 tons annually, with plans to expand.
  • Distribution: Supplies fresh and frozen fish to wholesalers, markets, and retail outlets in Zambia and beyond​

4. FirstWave Group

  • Overview: A regional aquaculture leader managing several operations, including Yalelo and Aller Aqua Zambia. They focus on tilapia production and aquafeed manufacturing.
  • Value Chain: Offers fully integrated operations from feed production to fish distribution across Zambia and other African markets​

These companies collectively drive Zambia's aquaculture sector, providing sustainable, high-quality fish products while promoting food security.


Fish feed companies in Zambia

Here are some notable fish feed companies in Zambia:

1. Aller Aqua Zambia

  • Overview: Part of a global brand, Aller Aqua Zambia produces high-quality fish feed tailored for aquaculture. They specialize in feeds for tilapia and other species, ensuring optimal growth and environmental sustainability.
  • Location: Siavonga, near Lake Kariba.
  • Products: Offers temperature-adapted feeds and complete feeding programs​

2. Skretting Zambia

  • Overview: A global leader in aquafeed, Skretting operates a dedicated fish feed plant in Zambia. This facility supports local tilapia farming with high-quality extruded and mash feeds.
  • Capacity: Produces 35,000 tons of feed annually, supplying both domestic and regional markets.
  • Location: Siavonga​

3. Aqua Tail by HM Feeds

  • Overview: A Zambian-owned business producing extruded aquaculture feed. Aqua Tail offers specialized products designed to meet the nutritional needs of fish at various growth stages.
  • Products: Includes starter, grower, and pond feeds, which are GMO-free and nutrient-balanced for efficiency.
  • Focus: Supplies primarily to the Copperbelt and surrounding areas​

These companies support Zambia's growing aquaculture sector by providing sustainable, high-quality feeds, contributing to fish farming efficiency and food security. 



Common fish species in Zambia


Here are some common fish species found in Zambia's freshwater lakes, rivers, and wetlands:

Freshwater Fish



1. Bream (Oreochromis spp.): A popular game fish and food source.

2. Tigerfish (Hydrocynus vittatus): A fierce and prized game fish.

3. Kapenta (Limnothrissa miodon): A small, sardine-like fish and important food source.

4. Catfish (Clarias spp.): A common fish species found in many Zambian waterways.

5. Tilapia (Oreochromis spp.): A widely farmed and consumed fish species.

Lake Fish



1. Lake Tanganyika Sardine (Stolothrissa tanganicae): Abundant in Lake Tanganyika.

2. Nkupi (Lates stappersii): A large, predatory fish found in Lake Tanganyika.

3. Mubanga (Labeo altivelis): A medium-sized fish common in Lake Kariba.

River Fish



1. Yellowfish (Labeo altivelis): Found in many Zambian rivers, including the Zambezi.

2. Silverfish (Schilbe intermedius): Abundant in the Zambezi River and its tributaries.

3. Mvuzi (Clarias gariepinus): A catfish species common in Zambian rivers.

These fish species play a vital role in Zambia's ecosystem, economy, and food security. There is a wide fish market available in the country where fish companies supply to.