Exploration of The Status of Fish Farming Enterprises Among Farming Communities In Nyandarua, Nakuru, and Nyeri Counties of Kenya

Abstract

Understanding the status of fish enterprises is vital for developing policies to enhance their productivity and economic growth. This study assessed the status of enterprises raising three main farmed fish species: Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus), African catfish (Clarias gariepinus), and rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), among farming communities in Nyandarua, Nakuru, and Nyeri counties in Kenya. The study selected these Kenya Climate Smart Agricultural Project (KCSAP) priority counties because these regions offer ideal conditions for fish farming and they represent promising areas for developing climate-smart fish farming. Using a snowball sampling procedure, the study identified 34 fish farms. Descriptive analysis was employed to examine socio-economic factors, production objectives, rearing methods, labour, markets, and marketing practices. Results showed that farmers aged 30-49 were most engaged in fish farming (23.5%). Family and family-hired labour were the most common sources. The majority (81.2%) of fish farmers preferred male labourers. Over 71.9% practiced commercial fish farming, primarily to generate income, and most emphasized producing table-size fish. The rearing period for tilapia, catfish, and trout fish were approximately 10.4, 10.2, and 12 months, respectively, with harvested average weights of 326.76 grams, 1357.14 grams, and 555 grams, respectively. Nile tilapia farmers mostly produced table-size fish, unlike trout and catfish farmers who targeted fingerlings, brooders, table-size fish, and fillet production. Prices for fingerlings, raw, and processed (value-added) fish ranged from 9.7 to 28 Kenyan shillings (KES), 335 to 650 KES, and 700 to 1200 KES, respectively. Farmers sold mature table-size fish at average prices of 335 KES, 540 KES, and 650 KES for tilapia, catfish, and trout, respectively. The price for value-added tilapia, catfish, and trout were 700 KES, 700 KES, and 1200 KES in that order. In conclusion, fish farming in Nyandarua, Nakuru, and Nyeri counties generates cash income, creates employment opportunities, ensures food and nutrition security, and contributes to societal empowerment for these communities.