Kariba — After more than 20 years operating outside the law, former poacher Edgar Sthole, 48, has reinvented himself as a legitimate player in Lake Kariba’s multimillion-dollar kapenta industry. Today, he owns six fishing rigs and employs 15 workers, marking one of the most notable personal and business transformations in the region’s recent history.
By Admore Mbonda in Kariba
For years, Sthole’s illegal fishing activities put him at odds with the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Authority (ZIMPARKS), triggering crackdowns, increased water patrols, and strained relations with conservation groups.
His operations disrupted the regulated fishing sector and contributed to resource pressure on Lake Kariba’s ecosystem.
But a major turning point came when Sthole recognised the broader consequences of his actions.
“I realized that my activities were not only harming wildlife but also undermining my community and my family,” he said in an interview. “I knew I had to change direction.”
Sthole began the slow process of formalizing his operations—securing the required licences, meeting regulatory standards, and shifting towards sustainable fishing practices.
His compliance over time earned him renewed confidence from authorities and signaled a fresh chapter in his business trajectory.
Today, Sthole’s rigs operate legally and profitably, contributing to the local economy and providing long-term employment for residents.
“I’m proud to be creating jobs,” he said. “Business is not just about generating income; it’s about supporting families and uplifting the community.”
His business success has allowed him to invest in a modern, fully serviced home in Kariba—now regarded by locals as a symbol of upward mobility and the rewards of legitimate enterprise.
Beyond business growth, Sthole has also become an informal mentor, encouraging young fishers to follow lawful and sustainable practices.
“I want others to learn from my mistakes,” he said. “There is a better way to make a living.”
Local authorities have welcomed his transformation.
“Edgar’s journey from poacher to entrepreneur is encouraging,” a ZIMPARKS representative said. “It shows that compliance and conservation can go hand in hand with profitable livelihoods.”
Looking ahead, Sthole plans to expand into fish processing and distribution, with an eye on markets beyond Lake Kariba.
“My vision is to build a business that boosts the local economy while promoting responsible fishing across the region,” he said.
As Sthole continues to grow his enterprise, his story stands as a compelling example of how perseverance, regulatory alignment, and ethical business practices can drive both personal success and sustainable industry development.
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