Value chain development for tilapia and catfish products: Opportunities for female participation in Kenya

Leah Z. B Ndanga, Purdue University

Abstract

Fish is an important food source in the diets of many Africans. Fish supply in Kenya is mainly from wild capture fisheries and imported marine fish. There is limited distinction in the marketing of wild caught fish as opposed to farmed fish. Farmed fish is usually sold directly to consumers, or nearby small traders and establishments. Despite government's efforts, access to capital remains a major constraint for fish farming. Article 1 used value chain analysis (VCA) to determine the structure of the Tilapia and Catfish value chains and a cost benefit analysis (CBA) to determine economically viable opportunities for increased female participation in the value chains. The main opportunities for women are as fish farmers that also act as a hatchery and as fish marketers. Despite the high initial costs, fish farming was noted to have the most benefits to the community. Besides economic development, other benefits identified include improved finances, improved food security, and employment opportunities. Fish marketing has fewer barriers to entry for women. Article 2 identified constraints affecting aquaculture, determined critical success factors, verified how demographic factors influence choice of supply chain participation activity and provided recommendations on opportunities for increased female participation in the aquaculture value chain. The study found that fish production lay in the male domain but relied on the full participation of women and family. Women traditionally have central position in harvesting, post-harvest handling of fish and marketing. Input supply continues to be a major constraint for all value chain actors. Integrated aquaculture and agriculture and pooling resources were noted to be helpful in circumventing some of the input constraints. Article 2 established that despite the constraints, there are definite opportunities for female participation in different aspects of the tilapia and catfish value chain; where to join depends on the woman's characteristics and goals. Female participants seeking flexibility and liquidity should consider fish marketing; those seeking long term financial strength and with strong educational and technical backgrounds should consider input supply; and those looking for long term stability should consider fish farming. Established fish farmers may consider diversifying into input supply and value addition.

Degree

M.S.

Advisors

Dennis, Purdue University.

Subject Area

Entrepreneurship|Womens studies|Agricultural economics|Sub Saharan Africa Studies|Aquatic sciences

COinS