One in Four African freshwater Fish species at risk of extinction — WWF

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A new report by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) has revealed that 26% of Africa’s assessed freshwater fish species face the threat of extinction, with experts warning that the true number could be much higher due to widespread data gaps.

Released ahead of the Ramsar COP15 global wetlands conference in Zimbabwe, the report "Africa’s Forgotten Fishes" raises the alarm over the silent collapse of freshwater biodiversity on the continent, which could have far-reaching consequences for food security, livelihoods, and ecological health.

“Africa is a global hotspot of freshwater fish diversity, home to over 3,200 species, but it’s also a hotspot of risk,” said Eric Oyare, WWF Africa Freshwater Lead. “When these fish disappear, we lose much more than species: we lose food and nutrition security, livelihoods, ecosystem balance, and our ability to adapt to climate change.”

The report underscores Africa’s dependence on freshwater ecosystems. With an average per capita catch of 2.56 kg of freshwater fish per year 28% higher than Asia the continent’s inland fisheries are a lifeline for millions. Uganda and Tanzania rank among the top 10 inland fish producers globally, largely due to the productivity of Lake Victoria.

However, threats such as habitat destruction, pollution, invasive species, overfishing, and climate change are pushing fish populations toward collapse.

In Zambia and the broader Zambezi region, catch levels of some key species have dropped by up to 90%, while Malawi’s iconic Chambo tilapia has declined by 94%.

Mr. Oyare said freshwater fish are not just vital food sources but critical to ecosystem health. “They play key roles as predators, herbivores, and nutrient recyclers,” he noted, warning that their decline signals deeper ecological distress.

He said the report calls on African governments to urgently adopt the Emergency Recovery Plan for Freshwater Biodiversity, a science-based action plan developed by global experts.

Mr. Oyare said the six-point strategy includes restoring natural river flows, improving water quality, protecting habitats, preventing invasive species, ending unsustainable resource use, and removing outdated infrastructure that disrupts river systems.

“These six pillars have all individually been implemented successfully in countries around the world,” said Mr. Oyare. “With bold leadership, African countries can adapt them to local contexts and help secure freshwater biodiversity for generations to come.”

Despite the grim statistics, the report highlights glimmers of hope. Community-led conservation efforts in Tanzania, Zambia, and Namibia are beginning to restore degraded ecosystems, protect breeding zones, and empower local fisheries co-management.

Nancy Rapando, WWF Africa Food Futures Lead, has urged a shift in policy and mindset.

“It’s time we stopped treating freshwater fishes as an afterthought. They are central to Africa’s biodiversity, development and future. We must act now before the rivers dry out.”

The Ramsar COP15 conference, taking place from 23–31 July 2025 in Zimbabwe, will bring together decision-makers, scientists and conservationists to chart a path for freshwater ecosystem protection.

WWF is calling on African nations to commit to the Global Biodiversity Framework’s 30x30 inland water target, fast-track the Freshwater Challenge, and adopt the Emergency Recovery Plan.

“The future of Africa’s rivers and fishes is inseparable from the future of its people,” said Itai Chibaya, WWF Zimbabwe Country Director. “We need bold action at Ramsar COP15 to restore the life support systems of this continent, starting with our forgotten freshwater ecosystems.”

Ends………………………………..

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