Project Impact and Growth

At the time of its launch in 2002, aquaculture activities in the project areas were limited, with only 2,480 fish ponds actively used for farming. Over time, with structured financial and technical support, the number of operational fish ponds significantly increased. By 2022, the project had facilitated the development of 4,960 fish ponds, leading to a substantial rise in fish production.

The project’s success is evident in its ability to provide:

• Increased availability of fresh fish in rural areas, improving nutrition.

• Higher incomes for fish farmers and related supply chain workers.

• Enhanced knowledge of sustainable fish farming techniques.

However, challenges remain, including high dependency on traditional farming methods, limited access to quality fish feed, and climate-related risks. The project continues to address these barriers through targeted interventions.

Access to Aquaculture Loans

Under this initiative, FDA has provided aquaculture loans to 2,247 farmers, of which 1,642 are women, promoting gender-inclusive growth in the sector. Farmers have used these funds to establish and expand fish farms, invest in improved feed, and adopt modern aquaculture techniques. The program’s key financial models include:

• Microloans for small-scale fish farmers to enhance pond productivity.

• Group financing for community-based fish farming cooperatives to promote collective growth.

• Investment in commercial aquaculture enterprises to meet increasing market demands.

Sustainability and Expansion

Between 2002 and 2007, FDA implemented the AqDP Project, establishing a Revolving Fund that has sustained aquaculture development beyond the project’s initial phase. Since 2007, this fund has continued to provide financial assistance, ensuring the long-term sustainability of fish farming initiatives.

To strengthen its impact, FDA collaborates with fisheries experts, aquaculture researchers, and agricultural extension services, providing farmers with training on water quality management, disease prevention, and advanced breeding techniques.

Social and Economic Impact

The Aquaculture Development Project has significantly contributed to:

• Improved Food Security: Increased fish production has enhanced protein intake in rural communities.

• Higher Incomes: Fish farming has provided a stable income source for thousands of families.

• Women’s Economic Empowerment: A significant number of women have become financially self-reliant through fish farming.

• Employment Generation: The project has created jobs in hatcheries, feed production, and fish marketing.

• Sustainable Rural Development: Capacity-building programs have improved farming efficiency and long-term viability.

Through this initiative, FDA continues to transform aquaculture into a thriving and sustainable industry, ensuring long-term economic and nutritional benefits for rural communities.