About the Project

The Aquahatch project is a DFCD‑supported initiative to develop a freshwater fish hatchery in Southern Sindh, Pakistan. It aims to produce high‑quality fingerlings (Tilapia and Pangasius) for local fish farms, reducing pressure on natural freshwater ecosystems caused by overfishing and invasive species. The project was identified and supported through the Dutch Fund for Climate and Development (DFCD) Origination Facility, managed in partnership with WWF‑Netherlands and SNV. 

Objectives & Strategy

Reducing environmental pressure: By strengthening local aquaculture and reducing reliance on wild capture and imported fish seedlings, Aquahatch supports sustainable fishing practices and biodiversity protection.

Boosting livelihoods: Fingerlings have lower mortality rates and reach market‑ready sizes faster, increasing income potential for fish farmers.

Sustainable operations: The hatchery uses organic feed (avoiding ~90 tons of antibiotics and chemicals annually) and renewable energy, and its water is reused for agriculture, minimizing environmental harm.

Key Impacts

  • Market supply: Projected production of ~50 million fingerlings in five years, meeting ~15 % of local demand.

  • Economic benefit: Potential income increases for fish farms through higher survival and earlier market readiness of fingerlings.

  • Climate & nature benefits: Supporting sustainable aquaculture reduces pressure on freshwater ecosystems and helps build climate resilience in the fisheries sector.