Aquaculture production in Mozambique: Approaches and practices by farmers in Gaza province

Aquaculture in Mozambique was introduced in the late 1950s, and several strategies have since been put in place to develop the sector, especially in growing the Mozambique Tilapia (Oreochromis mossambicus). The study assessed aquaculture production in the Gaza Province of Mozambique. Data was obtained from semi-structured interviews and questionnaires in companies, community associations, and individuals focusing mainly on their adopted production systems, challenges, and opportunities. The study identified 15 fish farmers, with a total of 301 fish culture facilities in which 86% were ponds and 14% cages with cultivation structure varying from 120 m2 to 2000 m2 for ponds and 6 m3 to 13 m3 for cages. Two production systems were distinguished including extensive and semi-intensive with 61% and 39% respectively. Oreochromis niloticus was the main cultured species. These farmers get their feed from Livestock Feed Limited (LFL) and AquaPlus. The unavailability of quality feed, seed and inadequate extension workers were listed as the main challenges faced by the farmers leading to low fish production. Our findings clearly show that fish farming is an attractive activity for small and medium-scale farmers, and it can grow especially if necessary measures are taken to improve management, access to inputs, and extension services.