Fish Farming in Ghana - Tilapia Business Made Easy
Fishing farming in Ghana has always been an economic activity that has been relied upon heavily by certain populations. Unfortunately, the reliance on natural fishing has immensely declined due to the changing ecological status of the highly relied on Volta river as other practices such as damming are executed on the same. Fish farming is, therefore, an alternative that will match the demand that is ever increasing.
Starting a tilapia fish farm is something that most people in Ghana desire considering how profitable the venture is. Unfortunately, this not always easy as farmers never take time to learn what they should do to guarantee success. For you to excel there are certain things that are a must–do in fish farming. This guide will give you the easy way forward.
Fish farming in Ghana – current statistics
Natural fish farming in Ghana has been significantly affected. This is because the changes taking place in river Volta due to damming activities have changed the flow of water which in turn has caused a change in useful flora needed by fish to thrive. As such there is need to create an artificial environment to enable the continuing of fish farming. While there are many benefits of damming for the people of Ghana in general, those who relied on traditional economic activities have been forced to change course. Fortunately, the fact that tilapia fish farming in Ghana is encouraged; there is hope for those who depend on fishing for their livelihood.
As it is, the conditions to support fish farming in Ghana are excellent. The weather is perfect, the water quantity and quality are also outstanding to support the life of tilapia and other marine life. Labor is also abundantly available. Markets are not a problem as the larger population in Ghana appreciates quality protein sources such as fish.
Currently, the cost of tilapia fingerling in Ghana is on the higher side considering that they are available in only a few reliable sources. To calculate the cost of fingerlings you will have to get 40% of the mature fish. This leaves a low profit margin for the farmer. It is this status that discourages farmers from getting into fish farming. However with the promise of the government to diversify this project, fingerlings will be available at soon at a reasonable cost of 2 to 7 percent of the cost of large fish. This is something that fish farmers will be looking forward to as it will significantly change the dynamics of fish farming. Farmers will only have to worry about the cost of fish feed in Ghana as their only major expense.
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Cage fish farming in Ghana – Phase IV of diversified agricultural project
According to the government plan, this phase will enhance local fish production in standardized floating cages that will be supplied to farmers on a lease basis. When the project begins, farmers will be leased the cages at a cost but later on they can be sold directly. The plan is to have farmers produce the first harvest and use the proceeds to purchase the cages. Whatever farmers earn for then onward they are free to sell to whomever they want at whatever price they deem fit. Farmers will receive fish farming training in Ghana. You do not have to worry about the because with the current plan it will be affordable.
How to start fish farming in Ghana - what do you need to start a fish farm in Ghana
There is a rich wealth of knowledge about fish farming out there. Visit the fish farmers association Ghana to know exactly what it takes to start a fish farm in Ghana. This association will also connect you to fish farming companies in Ghana which is a good place to start. If you have been searching the internet for tips on how to start tilapia fish farming in Ghana then this is the right place to be at. Experts in the industry advice that you always start small and grow your business as you learn and improve. Being a new farm, you will have to make decisions on your own especially if you are not in partnership. Learning all you can about fish farming is therefore very important. You can access tilapia farming in Ghana pdf resources from experts in the industry. Sign up for a fish farming class and attend webinars to equip yourself with knowledge. The following are some of the things you need to know.
- Formulate a business plan
- Analyze your market
- Build a fish tank /pond
- Observe proper fish nutrition
- Harvest and sell
Fish farming in Ghana revenues – it pays
The market demand for fish is high as Ghanaians are always ready to buy fish. However the price of tilapia in Ghana may be overpriced because of the high fingerling costs and other production expenses. However this is going to change soon and better yields will be achieved. This translates to higher revenues earned from the venture. With the recent increase in fish production in Ghana, the country has imported fish worth 135 million US dollars in 2016.This goes to show that the country has a deficit of fish which necessitates them bring more from outside. This trend ought’s to change as revenues that would have the rise been gotten for exporting are lots to imports of products that the country can supply.
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Any farmer that is bold enough to discover this deficit and fill it will earn so much money. The market is available, buyers are willing to purchase. Take a step and do your part. Start fish farming.
Source: YEN.com.gh
