Productivity and profitability of small-scale aquaculture in Malawi

Abstract

Small-scale aquaculture in Malawi is thought to contribute to nutrition and food security and serve as an income diversi cation strategy. Nevertheless, its adoption is low. Drawing on a recent survey of 734 small-scale sh farms across the country, the present study assesses the productivity and pro tability of small-scale sh farms, and their determinants using regression analysis. Most sh farms are owned and managed by individual farm-households, though communally owned farms are also present. Small-scale aquaculture is found to be pro table, though the gross margins are slim. Regression results reveal that productivity and pro tability are positively affected by the use of farms for both ngerling and grow-out production; the use of high-quality inputs such as commercial feed and inorganic fertilizers; and number of years the farm has existed. These results con rm that small-scale sh farmers in Malawi and other similar settings should adopt improved technologies and practice best on-farm management practices to increase productivity and pro tability. This study contributes to the discourse regarding the pathway through which aquaculture in Malawi can achieve its potential to contribute to the country's development.