Top Silver Cyprinid Fishing Countries

The silver cyprinid (Rastrineobola argentea), locally known as "dagaa" in East Africa, is a small, schooling freshwater fish native to the Lake Victoria basin. This species plays a vital role in the region's fishing industry, serving as a crucial source of protein and income for millions of people. The top countries harvesting silver cyprinid are Tanzania, Uganda, and Kenya, which share the waters of Lake Victoria. These countries have developed significant artisanal and commercial fisheries targeting this species, with the catch primarily used for local consumption, animal feed, and export as dried fish products. The silver cyprinid fishery is one of the largest inland fisheries in Africa, supporting livelihoods and contributing to food security, though it faces challenges such as overfishing and environmental pressures.

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