Ethiopia’s PDR (Production, Development, and Research) fish catches primarily come from its abundant inland water bodies, as the country is landlocked and lacks marine fisheries. The fishing industry in Ethiopia is relatively small but has grown steadily, focusing on lakes such as Lake Tana, Lake Ziway, and Lake Awassa. The top fish species caught include Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus), African catfish (Clarias gariepinus), and Labeobarbus species, which are vital for both local consumption and livelihoods. Historically, fishing in Ethiopia was practiced at a subsistence level, but since the late 20th century, government initiatives and international development projects have aimed to modernize the sector, improve yields, and promote sustainable management. Despite its potential, the industry faces challenges such as limited infrastructure, post-harvest losses, and environmental pressures, but it remains an important source of food security and income for many Ethiopian communities.
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Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.