The status and challenges of aquaculture development in Dodoma, a semi-arid region in Tanzania

Abstract

Demand for sh is growing rapidly in Tanzania due to population growth and rising incomes. However, as fewer wild sh are being caught, there is a gap in sh supply. Aquaculture is a viable alternative source to meet the gap in sh demand. Tanzania has the perfect climate and land for sh farming. Aquaculture in fresh and salt water has grown quickly, yet the potential is not being fully realised. Thus, the study assessed the growth of aquaculture in Dodoma, a rapidly developing semi-arid region of Tanzania, in order to determine its potential, challeges, and solutions. Thirty-six sh farmers from Dodoma urban district were visited and interviewed. The interviews gathered information about management practices, sh yield, and challenges the farmers experienced. The ndings indicated that aquaculture in the region began around nine years ago when the region began to expand. The aquaculture includes small-scale pond farming of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) and African cat sh (Clarias gariepinus). Fish yield was about 1925 kg ha -1 per culture cycle, and sh customers are de nitely available. The main challenges were limited supply and high prices of sh feed and seeds, and limited water supply. Use of commercial feeds, pond fertilisation, access to extension services and ownership of a borehole were related to high sh yield. Expansion of aquaculture in the region is possible with the improvement of extension services and training of farmers in proper breeding, feeding, and water management. To decrease water demands, integrated aquaculture, water recycling, and aquaponics should be encouraged.