Top Ethiopia Fish Catches

Ethiopia’s fishing industry is relatively modest compared to its agricultural sector, but it plays a vital role in food security and local economies, especially around the country’s abundant freshwater lakes and rivers. The top fish catches in Ethiopia are dominated by Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus), African catfish (Clarias gariepinus), and Nile perch (Lates niloticus), with Lake Tana, Lake Ziway, and Lake Chamo being the primary fishing grounds. The industry is largely artisanal, with most catches consumed locally rather than exported. Historically, fishing has been a traditional activity among communities living near water bodies, but it only began to be recognized as an economic sector in the mid-20th century. In recent decades, the Ethiopian government has promoted sustainable fishing practices and aquaculture to meet increasing domestic demand, though challenges such as overfishing, pollution, and limited infrastructure remain.

Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.