The Roles of Women in Aquaculture in Selected Riverine Communities of Anambra State

Abstract

This study analysed the roles of women in aquaculture in three selected riverine communities in Anambra State. Data were analyzed using simple percentages, tables, and frequency and showed that women participate extensively and actively in all aquaculture productions in Atani, Otuocha and Ebenebe riverine communities in Anambra State. From the results, it was discovered that most women (21.05%) engaged in marketing, 15.79% were involved in processing, broodstock management and feeding of fish,10.53% were involved in pond management, harvesting and hatchery management , leaving only 5.26% in farm management and feed production. This implied that women are predominantly involved in actual production than managerial roles. Results from this study also revealed some challenges encountered by the respondents in the three riverine fishing communities which were identified as limited access to credit and loan, high cost of feed, lack of quality ingredient for feed formulation, inadequate extension services, fish mortality, lack of proper storage devices, diseases, amongst others. It could be concluded that the women’s participation and roles in aquaculture activities are marked by enormous challenges. Therefore, proper measures must be taken into account to address the obstacles inhibiting women from fully developing their potentials in their different roles in aquaculture management.