DOI: 10.11648/j.aff.20261504.12 ISSN: 2328-5648

Socio-demographic and Technical Characteristics of Fish Farming in Three Aquaculture Production Basins in Cameroon

Maureen Yendje, Paulin Nyadjeu, Justin Djopnang, Majeste Pahane, Minette Tomedi-Tabi
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Background: The natural conditions and geo-climatic diversity of Cameroon are ideal for aquaculture development. The current study aimed to assess the socio-demographic and technical characteristics of aquaculture across three regions in Cameroon. Methods: Data collection was based on the snowball sampling technique, field observations and face-to-face interviews with fish farmers, using a structured questionnaire. Of the 129 fish farmers identified, 46, 69 and 14 from the Littoral, Centre and South regions respectively were interviewed. Results: In the Littoral, Centre and South regions, 87%, 91% and 93% of aquaculture is practiced by men, respectively. Moreover, 74% of fish farmers in the Littoral region are between 26-36 years old, compared to 49% and 57% in the Centre and South regions, which are respectively aged 36-46. Most farms in the Littoral region (46%) are organized as cooperatives, whilst 49% and 50% of those in the Centre and South regions, respectively, have no legal status. Regardless of the region, African catfish, is the predominant species raised for commercial purposes. The main challenges facing fish farmers are the poor quality of locally produced feed (61%) and a lack of financial resources (61%). As regards fish feed production, the main challenges are the high cost of ingredients, an unreliable electricity supply and pests (77%). Conclusion: Given the age of fish farmers, their level of education and training in aquaculture, and the production facilities, the Littoral and Centre regions are emerging as key hubs for the development of fish farming in Cameroon.

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