Norway to host first-ever seafood seminar in DR Congo

DRC – For the first time, Kinshasa, the bustling capital of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), will host a seafood seminar aimed at bridging gaps between Norwegian seafood exporters and Congolese importers. 

Scheduled for November 27–28, 2024, the seminar is a collaborative effort by the Norwegian Embassy in Kinshasa and the Norwegian Seafood Council (NSC).  

Norwegian seafood exports to Africa have surged in recent years, reaching nearly 2 billion Norwegian kroner. 

While Egypt, Nigeria, and Ghana remain key markets, the DRC is emerging as a significant player, with its fisheries and aquaculture sector contributing 12% to agricultural GDP and providing 40% of the country’s animal protein intake.  

Despite these strengths, seafood consumption in the DRC remains below the continental average. 

The seminar aims to address this by exploring avenues to simplify export-import regulations and provide insights into Norway’s aquaculture practices, which could be instrumental in developing the DRC’s nascent aquaculture sector.  

Johnny Håberg, NSC’s seafood envoy to Africa, emphasised the importance of sharing Norway’s expertise in aquaculture management and regulation. 

“DRC Congo aims to increase the farming of local fish and is looking for information and knowledge about how aquaculture is organised and regulated in Norway,” Håberg noted.  

In addition to fostering dialogue, the seminar will showcase Norwegian seafood, including popular exports like mackerel and stockfish (Makayabu), and provide a platform for stakeholders to address challenges in trade logistics and regulatory frameworks.  

Additionally, the Norwegian Ambassador Odd Mølster highlighted the seminar’s role in uniting exporters, importers, and local authorities. 

“This is where Norwegian exporters and local importers will meet representatives of the authorities and discuss their plans,” Mølster explained. The event underscores Norway’s commitment to building sustainable partnerships with African nations.  

With the DRC’s potential to become a net exporter of fish, this seminar marks a significant step toward leveraging the country’s untapped resources. 

As Håberg aptly stated, “Africa undoubtedly has a bright future and will offer great opportunities for the Norwegian seafood industry in the years to come.”  

The initiative not only paves the way for strengthened trade relations but also aligns with global efforts to promote sustainable aquaculture and fisheries practices, ensuring a win-win for both Norway and the DRC.

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