Fish farming

Whether they’re fishing from ponds dug on their land, lakes or the sea, Farm Africa helps fish farmers to improve their fish farming practices.

From how to dig and line a fishpond, to the optimal size of young fish to release into fishponds and the best types and quantities of fish feed to use, we share evidence on how farmers can increase their yields and the quality of the fish they produce, while minimising costs of production.

With fish feed accounting for close to two thirds of production costs of farmed fish, optimal use of feeds can make the difference between making a profit or loss for many fish farmers.

The success of fish farming depends on farmers’ access to markets and closely monitored expenses.

We help fish farmers keep effective records of costs and build their links to buyers. Forming collectives to sell fish in bulk provides farmers with the leverage to sell at higher prices, while staggering production cycles with other groups can ensure a continuous supply of fish is available for sale.

We also help farmers explore different options for increasing the value of the fish they sell, such as filleting fish, selling fried and smoked fish, and selling products such as fish burgers, nuggets and sausages to the hospitality sector.

There is high youth unemployment in eastern Africa, but fish farming is often overlooked by young people searching for work. Farm Africa works to change perceptions amongst young entrepreneurs of the opportunities offered by the sector.

Job opportunities for young people include roles as diverse as marketing, ice-making, transport, fish feed production and training of fish farmers.

We believe the aquaculture sector should strive for sustainable production levels that balance economic, social, and environmental considerations. This includes minimising waste and pollution, minimising the use of antibiotics and chemicals, and ensuring the responsible use of feed and other inputs.

Our training for farmers encompasses the importance of disease prevention, essential with shared water resources, as well as efficient water management. Attention is also paid to water quality and quality of inputs, which can mitigate effects of environmental impacts.

In Kenya we are piloting an environmentally friendly way of producing fish feed that uses the larvae of the Black Soldier Fly to convert low-value organic waste into high-value protein at a relatively low cost.

We are also helping to strengthen beach management units (BMUs) – local organisations that are responsible for sustainably managing a specific stretch of coastline or beach.