Opportunities and Constraints of fish farming in Ghana (a case study of Ashanti Region)
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Date
April, 2010.
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Abstract
The study was conducted in Ashanti Region of Ghana to examine the opportunities and constraints for environmental best practices of fish farming. The study examined resources available at farm levels, farm operations, farming systems, sustainability of fish farming and roles of stakeholders.
A systems approach was used as a guide for data collection. A structured questionnaire survey targeted fish farmers. Farmers‘ selection was based on their ability to provide records and information on their fish farming activities. It also involved farmers who participated in Aquafish Collaborative Research Support Programme, 2009 - an initiative of KNUST and some USA Universities. Secondary data was also collected from the Regional Fisheries Office in Kumasi.
Farming systems ranging from semi-intensive to extensive systems were encountered. The farm practices included polyculture, monoculture, mono-sex culture and integration. The study showed that the fish farmers have resources and experiences in fish farming but still lack appropriate technologies for the utilization of their resources; for increased production without compromising environmental protection.
Some of the opportunities include availability of land, water, feed ingredients, manure and infrastructures. Major constraints were generally lack of appropriate management techniques: water quality control, effluent control and proper record keeping. Poor site selection was linked with restriction of pond drying due to underground water trend.
Therefore, farmers‘ sensitisation, technical assistance and financial support will become suggestions to develop solutions to these confrontations.
The potential for fish farming to improve is enormous as the opportunities are vast. Government and non-governmental support will continue to be needed to overcome constraints imposed on the industry.
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Thesis submitted for the degree of Master of Philosophy in Aquaculture Management