Cameroon’s fish farming sector has received a major transformation through the Livestock and Fish Farming Value Chain Development Project (PD-CVEP), a €84 million initiative funded by the African Development Bank (AfDB) and implemented by the Ministry of Livestock, Fisheries and Animal Industries, according to a statement released Wednesday.
The project introduces an improved strain of African catfish (Clarias) developed by the Agricultural Research Institute for Development.
The new breed grows faster, has lower fat content, and a higher survival rate than previous varieties.
While older strains required up to nine months to reach market size, the improved catfish reaches 350–500 grammes in five to six months, with fry survival rates of 80–85% compared to 60%.
Since October 2024, 50 hatcheries have received 2,600 broodstock during the pre-extension phase, producing more than 115,000 fry.
“The support given by the project is encouraging us to go further. We have real motivation to continue what we’ve started,” said Fanta Njifondjou Oumarou, a fish farmer from Limbé.
The project also trains 280 farmers in hatchery management, cage farming, feed production, and business management, with the goal of increasing national fish production by 10,000 tons by 2027.
An AfDB mission in April called for faster broodstock distribution. Under a new agreement, 15,000 broodstock, including 12,000 clarias and 3,000 tilapia, will be distributed to farmers, supported by digital reporting and monitoring tools.
Fish vendors and restaurants are already noticing changes.
“The flesh stays firm after grilling and tastes better. Customers love it, and my income has grown,” said Moukoudi Mbappé Dolie, a grilled fish seller in Douala.
The programme addresses poor infrastructure at major fish markets such as Deïdo and Dakar, where upgrades will include hygienic counters, water supply, and ice storage.
“Clean and secure counters will help us preserve the fish better and sell with dignity,” said Marthe Epoko, a market vendor.
Officials say the initiative is aligned with Cameroon’s rural transformation goals.
“We will provide close support to hatcheries to ensure quality and traceability. This project is crucial for the future of aquaculture,” said Victor Viban Banah, Regional Delegate of the Ministry of Livestock.
Source: Business HallMark
Image Credit: THX News
