THE FISH FEED SECTOR IN KENYA, UGANDA, TANZANIA, AND RWANDA: CURRENT STATUS, CHALLENGES, AND STRATEGIES FOR IMPROVEMENT
This review paper provides an in-depth analysis of the current status the fish feed industry in East Africa, particularly in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Rwanda. The aquaculture sector in these countries is growing due to rising demand for fish, yet it faces significant challenges related to the availability of sustainable and high-quality fish feeds. The review highlights the scarcity of locally produced feeds tailored to various fish developmental stages and identifies obstacles such as regulatory issues, limited access to quality ingredients, and inadequate infrastructure. To address these challenges, the paper suggests enhancing regional collaboration, investing in research, advocating for policy reforms, and improving training and awareness programs. The insights provided aim to guide policymakers in implementing effective strategies to transform the fish feed industry in the region.
Introduction
Africa’s population is currently around 1.5 billion, making up 18% of the global population, with significant growth expected. The continent grapples with chronic food insecurity and poverty, which hinder the achievement of sustainable development goals. Fish and aquatic foods are essential for livelihoods and nutrition, especially for vulnerable groups like women and children. However, East Africa faces a notable gap between fish supply and consumer demand, with per capita fish consumption significantly lower than global averages.
In East Africa, per capita fish consumption ranges from 2.3 kg in Rwanda to 10 kg in Uganda, compared to the continental average of 10 kg and a global average of 20.5 kg. Factors contributing to low consumption include declining capture fisheries, prompting countries like Kenya to import fish to meet demand. While global capture fisheries have stagnated, aquaculture in Africa has expanded, now accounting for 16%-18% of total fish production and supplying over half of the continent’s fish consumption.
Countries like Kenya and Uganda are setting ambitious targets for aquaculture production, necessitating a reliable supply of high-quality fish feeds. However, the sector struggles with a lack of locally produced, affordable feeds tailored to the various developmental stages of fish. This reliance on imports for fish feed exacerbates costs, leading many farmers to use suboptimal feeding practices that hinder productivity.
Despite the potential for growth in the aquaculture sector, investors remain hesitant due to the nascent stage of development and perceived risks in emerging markets. Fish feeds constitute a significant portion of farming expenses, with protein being the most expensive component. Small-scale farmers often resort to low-quality feeds, limiting aquaculture productivity.
There is a pressing need for comprehensive reviews and research to address the challenges facing the fish feed industry in East Africa. This document aims to identify obstacles to sustainable development and propose strategic improvements, informing policymakers to strengthen the fish feed sector and enhance its contribution to food security and economic growth. Investing in research and targeted interventions is crucial for catalyzing positive change in the industry.
2. Overview of the Current Status of the Fish Feed Industry in East Africa
The fish feed industry in East Africa has seen remarkable growth due to the rise in aquaculture, particularly in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Rwanda. This growth is linked to a shift towards semi-intensive and intensive farming systems, which require more feed. For instance, Lake Victoria in Kenya has reported 5,242 cages, significantly increasing the demand for fish feeds. Prior to 2010, feed mills primarily produced feeds for land animals, with fish feed being a secondary focus. To meet the growing demand, local production capacity has been enhanced through the establishment of new feed mills and increased imports. However, major aquaculture investors still depend heavily on imported feeds due to their superior quality and cost-effectiveness, coupled with high local production costs and competition for raw materials from other sectors.
Numerous distributors and manufacturers have emerged in the region, with Uganda’s leading companies producing approximately 75,000 tonnes of feed annually, which falls short of the 120 million tonnes required to support the country’s aquaculture production. Consequently, larger farms are compelled to import feed from countries like Zambia, Egypt, and Brazil. Some farms have established partnerships with international manufacturers to ensure quality feed supply, such as the Tunga Nutrition collaboration in Kenya. Investments in local feed manufacturing have increased, supported by tax incentives and government policies aimed at stimulating the industry.
Despite these advancements, locally produced fish feeds remain unaffordable for many small-scale farmers, leading them to create homemade feeds that often lack essential nutrients. The competition for raw materials exacerbates this issue, as many ingredients used in aquafeeds are also vital food sources for the local population. Common ingredients include rice, wheat, and maize bran, but these often lack essential amino acids. While animal protein sources like fish meal are in high demand, their availability is limited, prompting a need for alternative ingredients that are not intended for human consumption.
Local animal-derived ingredients, such as blood meal and poultry byproducts, offer cost-effective protein sources for aquaculture diets. However, these ingredients often require supplementation with lysine-rich components to meet the nutritional needs of cultured species. Brewer’s yeast, a byproduct of the brewing industry, presents a promising alternative to fishmeal but remains underutilized. Fish oil is rarely used due to its high cost and limited availability, with plant oils serving as substitutes.
The competition for raw materials between the animal feed industry and human food needs poses challenges for feed manufacturers. In Kenya, for example, feed manufacturers utilize around 450,000 tonnes of raw materials annually, necessitating imports to support local production. Overall, while the fish feed industry in East Africa is evolving, significant gaps remain in meeting the nutritional demands of aquaculture, particularly for small-scale farmers.
3. Challenges Facing the Fish Feed Industry in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Rwanda
3.1. Regional Lack of Quality, Reliable, and Affordable Fish Feed and Feed Ingredients
The fish feed industry in East Africa faces significant challenges related to the availability and accessibility of quality fish feeds and feed ingredients. Local feed ingredients are often unaffordable for fish farmers, especially animal- and plant-based components. This price increase is primarily due to competition from other sectors, such as human and livestock consumption, and the seasonal nature of agricultural production. For example, cereals are affordable during harvest seasons but become increasingly expensive until the next harvest. The availability of raw materials also fluctuates seasonally, with agricultural inputs being most abundant during harvest times. In Kenya, the two rainy seasons—long (April to July) and short (October to December)—affect crop planting and harvesting schedules.
Fish meal, sourced from locally available sardines, is subject to peak availability during specific periods, such as the intermonsoon winds in March to April and November to December. This fish species is gaining popularity in the regional market as a protein source for economically disadvantaged groups, which has increased its demand for human consumption and diminished its cost-effectiveness as an animal feed source. Consequently, the rising demand for fishmeal has led to increased prices for fish feed, impacting affordability and nutritional value.
In Rwanda, the fish feed market is underdeveloped, with limited access to high-quality feed. Many farmers resort to homemade or substandard feeds, resulting in poor fish health and lower yields. Climate change has further exacerbated these challenges by affecting the availability and quality of raw materials for fish feed production. Variability in temperature, precipitation patterns, and extreme weather events disrupt agricultural productivity, leading to fluctuations in the supply of essential feed ingredients like maize, soybean, and fishmeal. Poor harvests due to changing rainfall patterns and increased temperatures have reduced the availability of these key ingredients, driving up costs and complicating the supply of high-quality feed.
To meet the demand for fish feed, the East African Community (EAC) often resorts to importing ingredients from other countries, which come at a high cost, resulting in expensive formulated fish feeds. This situation poses a significant challenge for extensive and small-scale fish farmers, who make up over 90% of the total farming population. The prices of imported ingredients are also volatile, influenced by fluctuating exchange rates, further complicating affordability. In response to the high costs of imported feeds, many fish farmers, particularly in Tanzania, have adopted a do-it-yourself approach, becoming “on-farm local feed producers.” Approximately 80% of farmers rely on locally available feed ingredients to supplement their fish diets. However, this reliance on homemade feeds often leads to lower production rates due to a lack of expertise in feed formulation, resulting in poor quality of the farm-made feeds.
3.2. Regulatory Hurdles and Policy Issues
In Tanzania, about 74% of fish feeds are imported, with only 26% produced domestically. Despite efforts to enhance local production, a significant gap between supply and demand remains. By April 2022, Tanzania had six private fish feed factories producing 540.6 metric tonnes, while the government permitted the import of 1615.5 metric tonnes, which accounted for 75% of the total feeds used in the country. Although VAT and import duty exemptions exist, high prices for imported feeds make them unaffordable for many fish farmers. This price inflation is exacerbated by global events like the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine War, alongside disruptions in supply chains. The lack of locally produced high-quality feeds creates additional barriers to accessibility and affordability for farmers.
In Kenya, the situation is further complicated by specific import duties on various feed ingredients. For example, oilseed cakes face a 10% duty, while maize from outside the East African Community (EAC) incurs a 50% levy. Wheat imports are subject to a 10% duty, and byproducts like wheat or maize bran are taxed at 10% as well. The reliance on around 70 types of imported premixes adds to the financial strain on the industry. Beyond import duties, additional costs such as import declaration fees (3.5%), railway development levies (2%), and various regulatory fees from organizations like the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) and the Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS) inflate overall costs. These ancillary charges can total approximately 15% of the customs value, further complicating the financial landscape for fish feed production in Kenya.
3.3. Uncoordinated Quality Control of Fish Feed and Raw Materials
Ensuring the quality of fish feed is crucial for food safety, especially since fish is intended for human consumption. This document summarizes the challenges faced in the fish feed sector regarding quality control, highlighting the lack of comprehensive Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) and good manufacturing practices (GMP) systems. It discusses the inconsistencies in quality assurance across supply chains, the variability in raw material quality, and the implications for fish farmers and the industry.
The fish feed sector suffers from inadequate HACCP and GMP systems, leading to a lack of structured quality assurance throughout the supply chain, processing, formulation, and distribution. External audits are rare, resulting in minimal standards for raw materials and poor product labeling. While some large mills may adhere to quality protocols, practical implementation is often lacking, and only larger mills tend to undergo audits, leaving the informal sector largely unregulated.
Agricultural byproducts, such as cereal bran and oilseed cakes, are commonly used in fish feeds, but their quality varies significantly based on locality and processing methods. For instance, rice bran quality has deteriorated since the closure of the Mwea Rice Factory in Kenya, with crude protein levels dropping from around 10% to as low as 3-6% due to adulteration. In contrast, wheat bran from industrial processors maintains a more consistent quality of 14-17% crude protein. Despite their potential, these materials are subject to seasonal and regional availability fluctuations.
The quality of fish feeds in the region is inconsistent, with labeling often failing to accurately reflect the actual composition. This lack of transparency creates uncertainty for fish farmers and poses challenges for companies supplying high-quality feeds. Small-scale manufacturers frequently lack rigorous quality monitoring, resulting in poor-quality feeds. In Rwanda, for example, the quality of fish meal is compromised by excessive fiber and aflatoxin contamination, with limited access to affordable testing facilities for small-scale farmers.
The absence of a centralized and affordable testing facility hampers efficient feed formulation, leading to discrepancies between stated and actual feed compositions, ultimately affecting fish farm performance and trust in manufacturers. In response, the East African Community (EAC) Member States, through the Lake Victoria Fisheries Organization (LVFO), have developed regional guidelines to enhance quality control measures. However, the fragmented regulatory landscape and limited financial resources in many East African countries hinder the establishment of effective legislative and enforcement mechanisms, impeding industry progress and stakeholder coordination.
3.4. Infrastructure Limitations
Local private producers are unable to meet the aquafeed demand in Uganda due to their uneven distribution and production capabilities. As a result, many aquaculture farmers have turned to producing their own feed, but they face significant challenges. The lack of adequate technologies, electricity, and machinery in rural areas hampers the preparation of these farm-made feeds. The reliance on hand-operated mincers further limits the scale of fish farming operations, indicating a need for enhanced training in feed-making technologies.
In addition to production challenges, inadequate storage facilities for feeds and ingredients exacerbate the difficulties encountered by smallholder farms. Fish feed ingredients sourced from hot and humid agroecological zones are prone to contamination by mycotoxigenic fungi if not stored correctly. A study revealed alarming contamination rates, with 48% of factory samples and 63% of farm samples from the Lake Victoria Basin testing positive for aflatoxin B1, with toxin levels varying significantly. This contamination poses a serious risk to fish feed production and aquaculture.
The issue of feed spoilage is often linked to a lack of knowledge and resources among farmers regarding proper feed handling. Many farmers in East Africa are unaware of the critical importance of appropriate transportation, handling, and storage practices. For instance, transporting feeds in open vehicles exposes them to moisture, increasing the likelihood of fungal infections. Additionally, unsuitable storage conditions can lead to pest infestations, further compromising feed quality. The consequences of poor feed storage include nutrient losses, spoilage, reduced fish yields, and diminished economic returns, ultimately impacting the profitability of farm operations.
4.5. Lack of Awareness and Knowledge on Fish Feed Management
Many farmers in East Africa have a limited understanding of feed quality, management, and the nutritional requirements of fish. When calculating feed rations, they often fail to feed their fish according to recommended rates and overlook factors like ambient temperature, body mass, and pond biomass. Poor record-keeping further complicates matters, as farmers struggle to adjust daily rations without accurate data. Additionally, many lack the knowledge and skills to monitor and record feed utilization, hindering their ability to use feed conversion ratios (FCRs) to assess feed efficiencies. Furthermore, inadequate records on stocking rates, mortalities, and water quality make it challenging for farmers to evaluate and optimize their production systems, undermining their ability to implement effective management strategies and improve production efficiencies. This lack of proper feed management skills affects profitability and erodes trust between farmers and feed millers. Farmers may wrongly attribute low profitability to substandard feeds supplied by millers, further stunting the growth potential of the fish feed industry.
4.6. Feed Formulation Challenges
Properly formulated feeds are essential for successful aquaculture, yet many manufacturers struggle to create feeds that meet the specific nutritional needs of different fish species and their life stages. In East Africa, there is a significant gap in detailed information regarding the nutritional content of local feed ingredients. As a result, many locally formulated feeds rely on international analyses of high-quality ingredients, lacking sufficient local scientific validation for their effectiveness in fish production.
This issue is exacerbated by manufacturers often neglecting the specific nutritional requirements of farmed species, leading to the use of inappropriate feed compositions. Additionally, some farmers resort to commercial grow-out feeds that contain excessive protein levels or feeds designed for different species, ignoring the established nutritional needs of local fish. Although research has been conducted to determine these nutritional requirements, the dissemination of this knowledge to small-scale feed producers remains insufficient, leaving farmers unaware of their target species’ nutritional needs. This lack of awareness can result in nutrient deficiencies that adversely affect fish growth and health.
Furthermore, poorly mixed farm-made feeds contribute to suboptimal production outcomes. While properly formulated feeds can enhance aquaculture productivity and reduce costs, farmers often struggle with the proper mixing of ingredients to ensure a balanced supply of essential nutrients. A study conducted in Tanzania by Mramba and Kahindi indicated that farmers using commercial feeds achieved higher fish yields compared to those using farm-made feeds, primarily due to improper mixing and inadequate storage practices that lead to nutrient degradation.
4.7. Financial and Subsistence Challenges
Fish farmers in the region struggle with maintaining regular feeding schedules due to financial limitations, which leads to erratic feeding patterns. This inconsistency not only hampers fish growth but also affects the quality of the fish produced. The reliance on subsidies further complicates the situation, as it fosters dependency on external support instead of encouraging farmers to invest in sustainable practices. This dependency creates a mindset that prioritizes short-term solutions over long-term entrepreneurial growth within the aquaculture sector.
Additionally, the sporadic availability of funds for feed purchases contributes to a cycle of unpredictability in fish farming operations. Farmers often face challenges in accurately predicting their cash flow, resulting in ad hoc decisions regarding feed procurement. This unpredictability disrupts feeding schedules and complicates efforts to achieve optimal growth rates and feed efficiency.
The culture of reliance on subsidized inputs can stifle innovation and discourage farmers from improving their practices or exploring alternative income sources. While subsidies are intended to support small-scale farmers, they may inadvertently hinder the development of resilient and self-sustaining farming enterprises. Ultimately, this reliance undermines the long-term sustainability of the fish farming industry in the region.
4.8. Inadequate Research and Development (R&D)
In Kenya, the aquaculture sector is significantly affected by a lack of investment in R&D, which limits the development of affordable, locally sourced fish feed alternatives. This dependency on imported feed not only raises production costs but also exposes the industry to fluctuations in international markets. Key issues include a shortage of certified quality seed and feed, the absence of a comprehensive aquaculture policy, and inadequate funding for research.
Similarly, Uganda faces stagnation in the fish feed sector due to minimal R&D, resulting in outdated feed formulations that hinder cost reduction and feed efficiency. This lack of innovation restricts the potential of the aquaculture industry to enhance food security and contribute to economic development.
In Tanzania, limited R&D efforts have led to a deficiency in locally tailored feed solutions that could utilize available raw materials effectively. This gap prevents the creation of cost-effective and nutritious feeds necessary for sustainable growth in aquaculture. A thorough analysis of Tanzania’s fish, seed, and feed value chains has identified critical factors that impede development, underscoring the need for collaborative research and improved extension services.
Rwanda also experiences minimal investment in R&D for fish feed production, resulting in reliance on inefficient feeding methods. This situation stifles the development of sustainable and cost-effective feed options essential for the aquaculture industry’s growth.
Across all these countries, the overarching challenge is the urgent need for increased investment in R&D to stimulate innovation in fish feed production. This requires not only financial resources but also the establishment of supportive policies and frameworks that promote collaboration among researchers, the private sector, and government entities.
4.9. Influencing Fish Consumption Patterns
Fish consumption in East Africa is shaped by various cultural and religious beliefs, which pose challenges for the fish feed industry. For instance, the Maasai community views fish as taboo, leading to decreased demand in areas where they reside. This cultural belief not only affects local fish markets but also reduces the need for fish feed. Additionally, members of the Seventh Day Adventist Church abstain from consuming African catfish, further limiting the market for this species due to the significant number of adherents in the region.
These cultural and religious restrictions create obstacles for fish feed manufacturers, as lower local consumption results in diminished demand for fish farming and, consequently, fish feed. Manufacturers must navigate these cultural landscapes to identify viable markets while also producing feeds for species that are culturally acceptable, which may not always align with commercial viability or environmental sustainability.
5. Strategies for Improvement
5.1. Collaboration to Build a Regional Fish Feed Supply Chain
The interconnected nature of aquaculture activities across EAC countries necessitates a regional approach to foster structural changes within the fish value chain. The lack of demand for aquaculture feeds limits investments in fish feed manufacturing, while insufficient availability of fish feed discourages entrepreneurs from investing in aquaculture farms. This cycle continues until a critical mass of farms and fish volumes is achieved, making it essential to address demand and supply at a regional level rather than within individual countries.
A significant initiative in this sector is the Tunga Nutrition Partnership, which includes joint ventures managed by Nutreco with Unga Group subsidiaries in Kenya and Uganda. Tunga Nutrition Kenya focuses on enhancing production capacity at a fish feed plant in Nairobi, marketing products under the Skretting and Fugo brands. In Uganda, Tunga Nutrition aims to modernize an inactive flour mill into a facility for producing animal feeds and concentrates, marketed under Trouw Nutrition’s Hendrix and Unga’s Fugo brands. This partnership has attracted substantial investment, helping Kenya and Uganda meet the rising demand for high-quality protein by boosting local fish feed production and reducing reliance on imports.
Another example is the SamakGro Fish Feed Factory in Naivasha, Kenya, a collaboration between Victory Farms, Maxim Agri Holdings, and Gatsby Africa, which has improved local production capabilities. Ugachick in Uganda has also invested in advanced feed production technologies, establishing itself as a leading fish feed manufacturer. These initiatives demonstrate how collaboration can effectively build a regional fish feed supply chain by pooling resources, expertise, and technology, ensuring a consistent supply of high-quality feed and addressing the demand-supply gap more efficiently than isolated efforts.
Investment decisions in the aquaculture value chain must consider the broader regional context rather than relying solely on individual country conditions. Government intervention is crucial in facilitating this regional approach, as it involves engaging in agreements to liberalize trade across East African borders and establishing independent feed quality control mechanisms. This promotes standardized quality across borders and fosters trust among stakeholders in the aquaculture industry.
5.2. R&D Initiatives
Research and Development (R&D) initiatives play a vital role in addressing ingredient sourcing and quality issues within the fish feed industry. One promising approach is the exploration of alternative raw material sources, such as insects, which offer a sustainable and cost-effective protein option compared to traditional ingredients like fish and soybean meal. By focusing on the nutritional composition and optimal inclusion levels of insect-based ingredients, the industry can diversify its raw material sources. Additionally, innovative feeding strategies and advancements in feed formulation techniques can enhance the nutritional quality and digestibility of fish feeds, ultimately benefiting aquaculture practices.
In regions like China, significant investments in R&D have led to advancements in nutrient metabolism and precise nutrient regulation to meet the growing demand for high-quality aquatic products. However, similar innovations are lacking in East African countries, highlighting the need for strengthened research in feed formulations to cater to the specific dietary needs of various fish species and life stages. Enhancements in feed processing technologies can improve the palatability and shelf-life of fish feeds, while robust quality control measures ensure consistency and safety. By developing effective quality assurance protocols, the industry can foster trust among fish farmers and feed manufacturers, promoting a reliable and sustainable fish feed market.
5.3. Integration of Digital Technologies
The integration of digital technologies in East Africa’s fish feed production presents a transformative opportunity to enhance efficiency and sustainability. Tools such as automated feeders and real-time water quality monitoring systems allow for optimized feed usage and improved fish growth rates. By enabling data-driven decision-making, these technologies help farmers implement more effective feed management practices. For example, precision farming tools ensure that fish receive the right amount of nutrients tailored to their growth stages, minimizing the common issues of overfeeding and underfeeding associated with traditional methods. Additionally, automated feeding systems can lower labor costs while improving feed conversion ratios (FCRs).
Moreover, blockchain technology plays a crucial role in enhancing traceability within the fish feed supply chain. By providing a transparent and immutable record of feed production, blockchain systems ensure the authenticity and quality of feed, fostering greater farmer confidence and regulatory compliance. Initiatives like Bumble Bee Foods and SAP’s blockchain system for tracking fresh fish, as well as OpenSC’s integration of IoT devices for supply chain monitoring, illustrate the potential of blockchain in improving transparency and accountability in the fish feed sector. Furthermore, mobile applications and online platforms, such as AquaRech in Kenya, facilitate knowledge sharing and training among fish farmers, leading to increased productivity and reduced losses in aquaculture operations.
5.4. Policy Influencing and Recommendations for Regulatory Reform and Support
It is necessary to reportthe need for EAC governments to consider temporarily reducing import duties on high-quality fish feeds to alleviate financial burdens on fish farmers. Such a reduction would not only enhance the accessibility of nutritious feeds essential for optimal fish growth but also encourage the adoption of best practices in aquaculture. By improving access to affordable and quality feeds, the region can stimulate investment in the aquaculture value chain, ultimately leading to greater self-sufficiency and competitiveness in the industry.
Furthermore, advocating for these temporary reductions aligns with broader goals of enhancing food security, economic development, and sustainability in the EAC. Making quality feeds more affordable can strengthen the aquaculture sector as a vital source of protein and income for local communities. An analysis reveals significant price disparities for maize and soya meal across various markets, indicating that a duty waiver for globally sourced maize could lead to substantial cost reductions. This would not only benefit fish farmers but also contribute to the overall economic landscape of the region, fostering a more resilient aquaculture industry.
5.5. Strengthening Quality Control and Standards
The importance of implementing stringent quality control measures and regular inspections in the fish feed market is necessary to boost productivity and profitability in aquaculture. It emphasizes the need for training and certifying feed producers on best practices to maintain high standards and prevent the spread of substandard products. The establishment of national standards for fish feed quality is crucial for protecting farmers and promoting sustainability. Examples from Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania illustrate the positive impact of these initiatives, including improved feed management and cost savings for farmers. Additionally, regional collaboration to develop certification guidelines is a significant step toward harmonizing quality standards, ensuring consistency in fish feed production, and fostering sector growth.
5.6. Human Capacity Development and Extension Services
The aquaculture industry faces significant challenges due to inadequate research capacity, limited expertise, and a lack of effective feed formulation programs. These issues lead to the reliance on basic feeds that do not meet the nutritional needs of various fish species, ultimately hindering production output. The shortage of skilled fish farmers who understand advanced feed management techniques further complicates the situation, emphasizing the need for enhanced knowledge in this area.
To address these challenges, it is crucial for EAC governments to invest in capacity-building initiatives aimed at aquaculture extension workers and fish farmer associations. This includes developing training programs for local fish feed manufacturers to improve the quality and affordability of feeds. Additionally, incorporating practical feed formulation training into educational curricula and utilizing information and communication technologies (ICTs) can effectively disseminate knowledge and support fish farmers. These strategies will help build a more skilled workforce and improve overall productivity in the aquaculture sector.
5.7. Policy and Public Investment Support
In East Africa, aquaculture is recognized as a vital strategy for enhancing food security and job creation. However, the sector struggles with insufficient government funding and poor execution of established policies for fish feed development. To foster private sector investment and ensure sustainability, it is essential for governments to strengthen policy support, enforce regulations, and invest in necessary infrastructure. For instance, Uganda’s recent enactment of the Animal Feeds Bill of 2023 marks a significant step towards regulating the production and marketing of animal feeds, which is crucial for the aquaculture industry.
To further bolster the aquaculture sector, supportive policies should focus on streamlining business processes, reducing taxes, and lowering import duties on essential inputs. High transportation costs and unreliable electricity supply hinder private sector investment and the development of aquaculture value chains. Therefore, significant investment in infrastructure, including transportation systems and electricity supply, is necessary to ensure the industry’s growth and meet local demand. Despite government commitments to quality control, there remains a pressing need for enhanced capacity in the sector.
5.8. Sector Institutions and Industry Associations
The establishment of a well-funded aquaculture feed association is essential to fill the institutional voids created by the liberalization of the fish feed sector in East Africa. This association, overseen by the government but managed by the private sector, would tackle the challenges within the fish feed industry by drafting legislation, setting membership criteria, implementing self-regulation and HACCP systems, conducting audits, and enforcing standards. By consolidating various functions and ensuring representation from all key stakeholders, including suppliers and manufacturers, the association would enhance the overall governance and effectiveness of the sector.
Collaboration among leading fish feed manufacturers is vital to create a structured and legislative framework that supports the growth of the feed sector. These manufacturers should provide leadership, financial backing, and establish a competent secretariat to manage operations. While the East African Community has set standards for compounded fish feeds, the effectiveness of industry organizations is often hampered by underfunding and resource limitations. A strong institution is needed to oversee policy development, regulatory frameworks, and quality assurance, which, with sufficient funding and government backing, could lead to significant advancements in the animal feed sector.
5.9. Training and Awareness Creation for the Feed Providers
Investing in innovation and skill development for commercial feed production is essential for the growth of the East African feed sector. The region boasts several aquaculture training programs at various educational levels, offered by institutions such as the University of Nairobi, Makerere University, and Sokoine University of Agriculture. These programs aim to equip individuals with the necessary knowledge in aquaculture practices, including breeding and management. However, a significant challenge persists due to the inadequate institutional framework for training staff in the fish feed industry, leading to a mismatch between the demand for skilled labor and the availability of relevant training courses. To overcome this issue, it is recommended to benchmark the East African feed industry against more developed sectors, like that of South Africa, to tailor regulatory guidelines effectively.
Moreover, enhancing technical skills and fostering innovative approaches are critical for improving the competitiveness and sustainability of the feed sector in East Africa. Collaboration among industry stakeholders, educational institutions, and government agencies is vital to create training programs that meet the specific needs of the sector. Additionally, leveraging international partnerships and best practices can provide essential insights and expertise to bolster regional capacity-building initiatives, ultimately supporting the growth and development of the aquaculture industry in East Africa.
5.10. Improved Storage Facilities
Enhanced storage facilities play a crucial role in preserving the quality of fish feeds in aquaculture. It is recommended that fish feeds be stored in well-ventilated environments with controlled temperatures to counteract the adverse effects of temperature and humidity fluctuations. Additionally, safeguarding against pest infestations is vital to prevent contamination and spoilage. Implementing a first-in, first-out approach ensures that older feeds are utilized before newer ones, minimizing the risk of feed deterioration. Developing comprehensive guidelines for storage and handling practices will aid farmers in optimizing feed quality and reducing losses, ultimately supporting the sustainability of aquaculture operations.
Examples from other sectors illustrate the benefits of improved on-farm storage. Research by Huss et al. (2021) revealed that enhanced storage technology and training significantly alleviated food insecurity during COVID-19 restrictions. This highlights the potential of better storage solutions to buffer against food supply shocks and support long-term climate adaptation. Furthermore, a study in Tanzania indicated that providing hermetic storage bags to farming households decreased the number of severely food-insecure households by 38% during the lean season. These findings demonstrate that modern storage technologies, coupled with effective guidelines, can help farmers improve feed quality, reduce losses, and enhance the overall productivity and sustainability of aquaculture operations.
5.11. Subsidies and Incentives for Local Feed Production
Governments in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Rwanda should should implement subsidies for raw materials and tax incentives for local fish feed producers to reduce production costs. For example, Kenya’s feed subsidy program has successfully encouraged households to engage in the improved fish feed market, increasing private sector demand for better feed options.
Public-private partnerships are essential for establishing local feed production facilities, which can decrease reliance on imported feeds. The FoodTechAfrica initiative exemplifies this, as it brings together 21 companies and universities to enhance food security through a comprehensive aquaculture value chain. Their collaboration led to the creation of a floating fish feed factory in Nairobi, producing high-quality feed and significantly benefiting local fish farmers.
In Uganda, a partnership between Ugachick and international investors has resulted in a modern feed mill that uses locally sourced ingredients, boosting local feed production and creating jobs. Similar strategies are being proposed in Tanzania, where local feed ingredients like maize bran can be utilized to develop cost-effective and nutritious fish feeds. These partnerships are crucial for enhancing local feed production capabilities through the infusion of technology, capital, and expertise.
5.12. Enhancing Gender Participation in the Fish Feed Sector
Women are integral to fish farming and processing in East Africa, yet they encounter significant barriers that hinder their full participation, such as limited access to credit, training, and quality inputs like fish feed. To empower women in this sector, it is essential to improve their access to resources and training, which will enhance their skills and knowledge. Additionally, establishing an agricultural finance policy in Kenya is crucial to bridge the gap in women’s access to financial resources, enabling them to invest in necessary inputs and fostering the growth of women-led aquaculture enterprises.
Moreover, addressing social and cultural barriers is vital for promoting inclusivity in the fish feed sector. While some regions, like Bungoma County, do not impose strict cultural restrictions on women’s participation in aquaculture, certain expectations, such as wearing trousers during pond maintenance, highlight the need to consider local cultural dynamics. Recognizing these norms is important for developing effective strategies that support and enhance women’s roles in fish processing and sales, ultimately leading to greater economic independence and improved livelihoods for women in the sector.
Conclusion
The sector the fish feed industry in East Africa is hindered by issues such as limited access to quality ingredients, regulatory barriers, poor quality control, inadequate infrastructure, and a lack of expertise in feed management. To tackle these challenges, the review suggests several actionable strategies, including fostering collaboration for a stronger regional supply chain, investing in research and development, advocating for policy reforms, enhancing training and capacity building, promoting public investment, and strengthening industry institutions. Additionally, improving storage facilities to maintain feed quality is highlighted as essential. Addressing these challenges is vital for the sustainability and growth of aquaculture, meeting the increasing demand for fish, and enhancing food security and economic development in the region.
Source : Munguti, J., M. Muthoka, M. Chepkirui, et al. 2024. “The Fish Feed Sector in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Rwanda: Current Status, Challenges, and Strategies for Improvement—A Comprehensive Review.” Aquaculture Nutrition 8484451: 18.
