Investigation on the performance of small-scale fish farming in coastal and Morogoro regions, Tanzania

Abstract

Abstract by author:

The study demonstrated that most of the small-scale fish farmers in Coastal and Morogoro rural areas are experiencing problems leading to an increase of unmanaged fishponds. Surveys conducted through personal interviews yielded good information that is likely to be useful for improvement and development of small-scale fish farming in the country

Analysis of capture fisheries from both fresh water and marine systems was done to find out whether production of fish can sustain the demand for fish in the country. The analysis of results showed that there is a big deficit to satisfy fish consumption required in the country: Figure 6 showing per capita drop, from 12. 5kg in 1990 to less than 8. 5kg in 2001. This is due to a rapid population growth rate of 2. 7 percent annually. Since 1994 the decline in the production from capture fisheries has created even a bigger gap in fish demand that could partly be met by seriously implementing aquaculture development in the country

The major problem prevailing in the aquaculture industry arises from lack of initiatives by Fisheries sector. For instance, there are inadequate funds for training of extension fisheries officers. The study showed that Logical Framework Approach could be used to analyze problems facing fish farmers. According to the LFA, the focal problem is " Inadequate Fish Production from Aquaculture "

This study indicates that small-scale fish farmers in Tanzania showed a willingness to develop and promote the aquaculture industry. Many projects in aquaculture that have been carried out in the country for the past 5 years have had little impact despite positive results observed during the experimental phase. After the experimental phase, there was no continuity in the initiatives or measures taken by the Fisheries sector to promote and develop aquaculture. Everything found in rural areas concerning fish farming is at small-scale level and those undertaking farming are individual farmers whose main purpose is for home consumption having little remaining for sale