An Evaluation of Selected Pilot Fish Hatchery Operations In Ghana

Abstract

The failure of past attempts to develop aquaculture in Ghana has been of concern to many people. Relevant constraints identified included fmgerling shortages, low economic returns from the industry, inadequate tested extension messages among others. In recent years. The Water Research Institute and the Directorate of Fisheries have made some efforts to solve the immediate problems of inadequate seed supply and stunted growth of tilapia in ponds due to excessive reproduction. Pilot hatcheries were improvised from available facilities in Accra, Kumasi and Akosombo to produce the right age and quantity of fry/fmgerlings for fanners. The objectives of this study are (1) To ascertain the viability of these pilot activities. ( 2 ) To propose viable option(s) built upon the above initiatives and (3) To contribute information on the economics of tilapia culture. Econometric models were estimated to assess technical and economic efficiencies of some beneficiary fanners. The Akosombo tilapia activities, showed signs of being financially/economically viable. With regards to the Accra catfish activity sensitivity analysis revealed that, an increment of 10 per cent upon the current survival rate of 37 per cent could lead it to viability. However, at the same assumed improved survival rate, the Kumasi hatchery proved nonviable. Regression results showed that the experience of farmers, stocking density, quantity of manure and pond fertility levels significantly influenced tilapia output. Also, current rates of stocking and liming are below optimum levels. Increased use of these inputs, as suggested by the input allocative efficiency criteria may not be realistic, given the subsistence nature of these farms. Assured availability of these inputs and cash are therefore, prerequisites to exploit further production and income from tilapia culture by farmers. Measures to encourage private fmgerling producers, strengthening of the requisite technical manpower in the country, regular training programs for farmers and the establishment of on-farm and on-station research programs to refine upon current practices are recommended.