Assessment of the Performance of the Aquaculture Fish Marketing chain: A case of Dowa and Mchinji Districts in Malawi
Abstract
188 words
This study was carried out in Dowa and Mchinji Districts in the
Central Region of Malawi. The main purpose of the study was
to improve the marketing system of the small scale fish farmers
for increased income with particular focus on assessing the
socio economic factors that affect supply of fish marketed by
smallholder farmers, assessing the structure and conduct of
the fish market by estimating economic returns and to identify
the best marketing channels and strategies for the small holder
fish farmers. A total of 159 producers that included fish and
non fish farmers, 49 traders, 59 consumers, were interviewed
through focus group discussions. Interviews were conducted
with 20 key informants from actors along the fish value chain.
Results from preliminary findings show that most fish farmers
do not add value to their product due to a number of factors.
Facilities at fish markets are minimal, with poor hygiene and
sanitation. There are rarely any standard practices for handling,
washing, sorting, grading, cleaning and icing of fish. Despite
this, economic returns show that the fish farmers can increase
income if more investment is made in the sector.
Subjects
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