Mr. Bouahong Khamha, Director General of the Department of Livestock and Fisheries under the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, said preparations are underway in coordination with provincial authorities, Vientiane Capital and development partners to ensure the success of this year's nationwide campaign.

To meet the target, the department has mobilized 53 government fish hatcheries and breeding stations, more than 163 private hatcheries, and 111 household-based hatchery operations to produce and supply fingerlings for release into rivers, reservoirs and other natural water bodies across the country.

The national launch ceremony will be held at Bueng That Luang in Vientiane Capital's Special Economic Zone, where approximately 350,000 fingerlings are expected to be released into the 50-hectare wetland.

Mr. Bouahong noted that Laos is endowed with abundant freshwater resources and is home to more than 500 native fish species, including endangered species such as the Mekong giant catfish and giant freshwater stingray. Protecting these resources is a national priority to maintain biodiversity, ecological balance and sustainable livelihoods.

The Government designated July 13 as National Fish and Aquatic Animal Release Day in 1997 to encourage public participation in the conservation and sustainable use of aquatic resources. Annual activities are also aimed at raising environmental awareness, particularly among young people and local communities.

Mr. Bouahong called on government agencies, the private sector and the public to actively participate in fish release and conservation activities, emphasizing that sustainable fisheries management is essential for strengthening food security, supporting rural livelihoods and preserving the country's rich aquatic ecosystems for future generations.

KPL