Final Technical Report - ACP Fish II - Welcomeacpfish2-eu.org/uploads/projects/id240/FTR ACP Fish II EA...ACP Africa, Caribbean and Pacific states ANAF Aquaculture Network for Africa

"Strengthening Fisheries Management in

ACP Countries"

Project Funded by the European Union

“This publication has been produced with the assistance of the European Union. The contents of this publication are the sole responsibility of SOFRECO and can in no way be taken to reflect the views of the European Union.”

“The content of this document does not necessarily reflect the views of the concerned governments.”

Final Technical Report

Regional Training on Promoting Commercial Aquaculture Management and Development

Reference: EA-1.5-B6/REL

Region: East Africa

Countries: Burundi, Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania and Uganda

December 2013

Project implemented by

Regional Training on Promoting

Commercial Aquaculture Management and Development

Project Funded by the European Union A project implemented by 2/18

Table of Contents

1 Background .........................................................................................................5

2 Approach to the assignment ..............................................................................6

3 Comments on the Terms of Reference ..............................................................8

4 Organisation and Methodology ..........................................................................9

4.1 DELIVERY OF TERMS OF REFERENCE .............................................................. 9 4.2 CONDUCT AND DETAILS OF THE ASSIGNMENT INCLUDING VISIBILITY ACTIVITIES 11

4.2.1 Phase 1 Inception, 1st Input – Research and consultation ....................................... 11

4.2.2 Phase 1, 2nd

Input – Main criteria defined by KEs to be considered when selecting

potential FOs for development of commercial aquaculture. ................................... 13 4.2.3 Phase 1, 6

th input – Definition of focal points and ARWG Members ...................... 13

4.2.4 Phase 1, 6th Input – Working Plan and timetable of activities ................................ 13

4.2.5 Phase 1, 4th input – Training need Assessment Methodology and Findings ........... 13

4.2.6 Phase 1, 5th Input – Training Needs Assessment and Module Development workshop

................................................................................................................................. 14 4.2.7 Phase 1, 7

th Input – Training Modules .................................................................... 15

4.2.8 Phase 1, 8th Input – Training Modules pilot testing ................................................ 15

4.2.9 Phase 1, 9th Input – Training Workshop Schedule .................................................. 15

4.2.10 Phase 2, 10th

input – Workshop Efficient commercial aquaculture production systems

and practices. .......................................................................................................... 15 4.2.11 Phase 2, 11

th Input – Workshop on Marketing Strategies for profitable commercial

aquaculture development ........................................................................................ 16 4.2.12 Phase 2, 12

th Input – Workshop on Business skills for successful commercial

aquaculture development ........................................................................................ 16 4.2.13 Phase 2, 13

th Input – Troubleshooting matrix ......................................................... 16

4.2.14 Phase 2, 14th

Input, Certificate of attendance ......................................................... 16

5 Conclusions and Recommendations .............................................................. 16

6 Annexes ............................................................................................................. 18




Abbreviations and Acronyms

ACP Africa, Caribbean and Pacific states

ANAF Aquaculture Network for Africa

ARWG Aquaculture Regional Working Group

COMESA Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa

CU Coordination Unit of ACP Fish 2 (based in Brussels)

EA Eastern Africa

EIAR Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research

FA Fisheries Administration

FPMC Fish Production and Marketing Corporation

FTR Final Technical Report

KE Key Expert

LTA Lake Tanganyika Authority

LVFO Lake Victoria Fisheries Organisation

MoA Ministry of Agriculture

MoARD Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development

NGO Non Governmental Organisation

RFBs Regional Fisheries Bodies

SOP Standard Operational Procedures

SS South Sudan

TNA Training Needs Assessment

ToR Terms of Reference

TT Technical Team




Executive Summary

This assignment was intended to enhance the knowledge and skills of government officers

supporting the commercial aquaculture subsector. In particular helped to build the capacities

of the ARWG in development of training modules through a Training Needs Assessment

(TNA), and then an on-the-job component in module development and delivery of training in

which they will be able to apply their new-found skills under the tutoring of the KEs.

The assignment was organised in two phases: The Inception Phase; and the Implementation

Phase.

First, the Inception Phase consisted of the TNA and training module development. For the

TNA the KEs consulted with key stakeholders (from the Fisheries Administrations, Research

Institutes and key actors along the value chain) in Burundi, Rwanda, South Sudan and

Ethiopia. The 4 selected ARWG members assisted in providing the necessary information for

the TNA covering LVFO Partner States (Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda). The training module

development workshop lasted 7 days and involved 4 ARWG members — one from each of

the LVFO Partner States and one from LVFO Secretariat. Private sector representatives were

closely involved during the TNA stage to identify areas of interest, thereby ensuring the

appropriateness of the modules and sessions suggested. During this workshop the Team of

Experts and ARWG members compiled the results of the TNA and developed the draft

module, while ARWG members were trained and mentored in training methods and adult

learning techniques.

Second, the Implementation Phase was the main focus and involved the training of 18

nominated Fisheries Officers (by the Fisheries Administration in collaboration with the RFU-

EA), 3 each from Burundi, Ethiopia, Rwanda and South Sudan and 2 each from Kenya,

Tanzania and Uganda, as well as the above-mentioned 4 ARWG members. The training

workshop lasted 5 days. The training laid emphasis on the analysis of the aquaculture value

chain and identification of main opportunities and constraints (technical constraints,

regulatory framework, marketing, support services, socio-economic factors, business

management, etc.). The training further provided skills on the role of the public sector in

developing measures to address the main constraints. During this training event, the ARWG

were supported and mentored in application of skills acquired in the previous stage. In order

to maximise learning, the KEs used adult learning techniques and laid as much emphasis as

possible on practical training, including exercises and field visits to nearby commercial fish

farms, key speakers, case studies, troubleshooting matrix, presentations, etc.




1 Background

Aquaculture is one of the fastest growing food production sub-sectors in the world, now

contributing an estimated 50% of global supply of aquatic products. However, in East Africa

aquaculture is still in an embryonic state, having limited impact on regional fish supply in

spite of a rapidly growing gap where capture fisheries can no longer meet the needs of the

burgeoning population.

At present in East Africa, aquaculture is largely practiced at subsistence or small-scale level,

and most fishponds have remained unproductive due to poor management and lack of

adequate support in terms of provision of extension, guidance and quality inputs (seeds and

feeds). Several of these fishponds have been abandoned as a result. On the other hand, with a

few exceptions (in Kenya and Uganda in particular) commercial aquaculture is yet to be

established in most of these countries. However, a number of studies and project proposals

(e.g. in Uganda) have revealed the huge potential and challenges of moving from subsistence

to full-fledged commercial industry.

Despite its potential, long history, policy pronouncements and emphasis, there are still a host

of constraints and challenges hindering aquaculture growth and development in the target

countries, the most important of which are:

Lack of comprehensive policy and legislation for aquaculture;

Weak institutional capacity and technical support in terms of provision of basic

infrastructure, research, demonstration and extension services;

Lack of adequate inputs and facilities (fingerlings, feeds, cold chain, transport and

power);

Inadequate entrepreneurship and business-oriented skills by farmers and other

stakeholders;

Inadequate market information and very limited access to markets and credit;

Low government budget and funding and low investment by private sector;

Poor yields and returns on investment (due to poor management and absence of

established marketing mechanisms and adequate infrastructure).

All these issues could be addressed and effectively reduced at the regional level with the

cooperation and commitment of Member States. This assignment followed the shift in the

support emphasis to the sector and aimed to improve the quality of support to facilitate both

the transformation of the subsistence operators to small and medium enterprises whilst also

facilitating the establishment of commercial scale operations in aquaculture. The purpose of

this assignment was to build the capacities of Fisheries Administrations by equipping them

with regulatory and management skills and instruments required for the promotion of the




commercial aquaculture sector. It was expected that the participants would learn to assess the

aquaculture industry value chain and identify the main opportunities and constraints (technical

constraints, regulatory framework, marketing, support services, socio-economic factors, etc.).

Additionally, it further provided skills on the role of the public sector in developing measures

to address the main constraints and take advantage of those opportunities. KEs provided

training modules designed to promote commercial aquaculture management and development,

enabling the extension officers to apply its principles and strategies to their own regions.

This project was implemented by the consulting firm Société Française de Réalisation

d’Études et de Conseil (SOFRECO) with support from the Lake Victoria Fisheries

Organisation (LVFO) and their respective members of the Aquaculture Regional Working

Group (ARWG). The two Key Experts (KEs) from SOFRECO were Dr Adrian G. Hartley

(AH) and Mr Prosper Kiyuku (PK).

The following results were completed by SOFRECO in reference to the assignment:

A Training Needs Assessment (TNA) on commercial aquaculture management and

development was conducted with the Target Groups;

Training Modules on commercial aquaculture management and development were

produced;

Eighteen (18) nominated Fisheries Officers from the seven target countries were trained in

the methodologies and techniques on creating conducive environments for commercial

aquaculture to properly perform;

On-the-job training of selected 4 ARWG members during TNA, module development and

delivery was conducted;

2 Approach to the assignment

This assignment was organised in two phases: The Inception Phase and the Implementation

Phase. The Inception Phase was conducted between the 14th

of August and 16th

of September

2013 (Annex 1). During this time the Key Experts (KE) worked in Jinja, Uganda as well as

their respective non-LVFO countries during the TNA.

During phase I, the KEs held a briefing with ACP Fish II and LVFO to establish the

communication channels with ACP Fish II, LVFO, ARWG and Beneficiary countries FA.

The TORs, project objectives and expected results were also clarified, and an agreement on

logistical arrangements made.

Additionally, the KEs carried out consultations, collected and reviewed relevant documents

mainly based on national and regional data provided by the AWRG, the FAs, Regional

Fisheries Bodies (RFB) and other key stakeholders, in relation to existing fisheries &

aquaculture policies and strategies, laws and legislations, aquaculture development projects

and reports. Key visits and discussions were held with the LVFO Senior Fisheries

Management Officer and Senior Research Officers at the Kajjansi Aquaculture Research and

Development Centre during the first week. The inception report was produced during project

phase I (Annex I).




At the next stage, the KEs defined, planned and executed the Training Need Assessment

(TNA) in Burundi, Rwanda, Ethiopia, and South Sudan, through consultations, interviews,

practical field visits and participatory approach with FAs, Research Institutes, and other key

Value Chain actors. The defined daily working plan and the TNA methodology and

questionnaires are described in Annexes II and III respectively. Capacity building was

conducted: ARWG members were guided by KEs on collection of necessary information for

the TNA in their respective countries (Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda).

After finalizing the TNA fieldwork, a workshop was organised with ARWG representatives to

define the TNAs findings in all 7 participating countries (Annex III) and define the training

modules for the development of “Commercial Aquaculture Development and Management”

(Annex IV). Subsequently, the Training modules were pilot tested locally. Following the

workshop, the Training modules were finalized and the Interim Technical report was

submitted (Annex V).

During Phase II, The training workshop on “Commercial Aquaculture Development and

Management” was held and attended by the KEs and the selected members, including 18 FOs

and 4 ARWGs (Annex VI) between 23-27/09/13. The Training workshop focused on three

main areas for training needs:

i. Efficient Commercial Aquaculture Production Systems and Practices (Annex VII);

ii. Marketing Strategies for Profitable Commercial Aquaculture Development (Annex

VIII);

iii. Business Management Skills for Successful Commercial Aquaculture Development

(Annex IX).

The training program is described in Annex X, which was based on a series of theoretical

courses, key guest speakers and field trips to key facilities of the industry, covering the three

main subject areas of training. Each participating country representatives provided a small

presentation on the status in their country of each one of these subject areas of training, to

share, allow a holistic understanding of commercial aquaculture development and status of the

7 participating countries and learn from each other (Annex XI).

Under the first subject area for training titled, efficient production techniques, the key subjects

covered included; commercial aquaculture production principles and technologies, efficient

production techniques and management and harvesting and processing. There were key guest

speakers and field trips which included; visits to the largest tilapia farm in the region (SON

fish farm), a catfish demonstration hatchery, the main feed manufacturer of the region (Uga

Chick), LVFO headquarters and a speaker from one of the most representative research and

development institution in the region (Kajjansi Aquaculture Research Centre).

The second main subject of training was marketing techniques, whereby the key areas covered

included; marketing principles for aquaculture, sources of aquatic products in the region,

marketing chain, market behaviour, marketing strategies and marketing tools. Again there

were Key Guest Speakers and a field trip which included; visits to one of the most active

processing plants in the region, and a presentation from a wholesale trader of farmed tilapia

from the region.




For the third subject area of training, business skills, the key subjects covered included;

principles to business management for commercial aquaculture, start-up considerations,

business plan, information requirements, economic and financial skills, business strategies

financing and ethics in sustainable businesses management. A troubleshooting matrix was

developed as a tool (Annex XII), enabling the extension officers to find the best solutions or

courses of action to help develop commercial aquaculture.

3 Comments on the Terms of Reference

During the inception phase, the Key Experts team discussed the Terms of Reference of the

project with the ACP FISH II Regional Manager, and LVFO. The main observations on the

Terms of Reference (ToRs) and their clarification for the project implementation are:

a) It was highlighted that poor development in commercial aquaculture was not only due

to the lack of understanding of the commercial side of the business, but also the lack

of proper training of extension officers and industry stakeholders. These two factors

play a major role in the design of the training program.

b) Information available in the 7 Countries in relation to their aquaculture status is not

always up to date and/or reliable; therefore some assumptions, cross-references and

exemptions would have to be made. Also there is a need to update related programmes

involved in development of aquaculture. A good help would be to collect information

through local research institutes and development and research programmes from

foreign institutions (Israel, China, USA, EU, etc.).

c) It is important to clarify and be clear that the main focus of the project is to develop

commercial aquaculture only.

d) It was mentioned that the KEs would assist in the selection criteria of the targeted

group of potential trainees’ fisheries officers (FOs). Main criteria defined by KEs to be

consider when selecting potential FOs is described in Annex I.

e) There were discussions on the potential insecurity in any of the participating countries,

resulting in difficulty or high risk in accessing some areas. This situation could put the

KEs at risk and/or limit its ability to gather relevant information and carry out field

visits, eventually reducing the scope of the assignment, increasing its duration or the

number of experts. To minimise this risk the Team of Experts will constantly liaise

with the concerned FAs and Governments before moving to the intended area.

f) Logistics issues to organise the workshop were discussed, highlighting the need to

define the number of workshops needed, number of participants, length and type of

workshops.

g) It was ratified the trips that each KE would do during the TNA, with AH covering

South Sudan and Ethiopia, whereas PK would cover Rwanda and Burundi.




h) It was agreed that the LVFO would assist in some of the planning, organization and

logistics tasks of the workshops and training program.

i) It was made clear that working days for KE could be rearranged within the working

plan depending on field requirements without exceeding the length of time allowance.

4 Organisation and Methodology

4.1 Delivery of Terms of Reference

Terms of reference

(each of the key activities

from the ToR)

How delivered through the assignment (has it been

done)? Or how has it been met? – as a clear basis for

evaluation – summary text only as details will be

included in other parts of the report)

Phase 1 Activities

1 Briefing by the ACP Fish

II and LVFO

Took place in Jinja, Uganda on the 14/08/2013. The

KEs held a briefing with ACP Fish II Regional Manager

and LVFO representatives to establish the

communication channels with ACP Fish II, LVFO,

ARWG and Beneficiary countries FA.

2 Collect and review

relevant documents

KEs carried out consultations, collected and reviewed

relevant documents mainly based on national and

regional data provided by the AWRG, the FAs,

Regional Fisheries Bodies (RFB) and other key

stakeholders, in relation to existing fisheries &

aquaculture policies and strategies, laws and

legislations, aquaculture development projects and

reports. Key visits and discussions were held with

LVFO Senior Fisheries management officer and senior

research officers at the Kajansi Aquaculture Research

and Development Centre during the first week

3 Conduct Training Needs

Assessment (TNA)

through consultations in

Burundi, Rwanda,

Ethiopia and South Sudan

Definition, planning and execution of the Training Need

Assessment (TNA) in Burundi, Rwanda, Ethiopia,

South Sudan, was done through consultations,

interviews, practical field visits and participatory

approach with FAs, Research Institutes, and other key

Value Chain actors. TNA findings are summarised in

Annex III.

4 Guide the ARWG in their

respective countries

(Kenya, Tanzania and

Uganda) in the

collection of information

necessary for the TNA;

At the same time, ARWG were guided by KEs in their

respective countries (Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda) for

the collection of information necessary for the TNA.




5 Organise and facilitate

the TNA and training

module development

workshop (5 days,

4 ARWG members) for

“Commercial

Aquaculture

Development and

Management”

the training modules

developed will

include detailed learning

outcomes;

The TNA and Module Development workshop with the

participation of the 3 ARWG members and one LVFO

representative, was held at LVFO premises in Jinja,

Uganda between 29/08/13 and 02/09/13. Detailed work

plan for the workshop is presented in Annex IV.

The workshop were organised in 2 sections, a) TNA and

b) Training Modules Development. Both requiring the

assistance and presence of the ARWG members and

LVFO representative. For the former section of the

workshop, TNA findings, experiences and constraints

were discussed and defined, information that was

employed during the second stage of the workshop for

the training modules development. Additionally, a set of

field trips and key speakers were organised during this

first stage of the workshop to enhance the

appropriateness and relevance of the learning material

required for the training modules. After completion of

TNA, all relevant material required to work on the

modules development for “the regional training

program on commercial aquaculture management and

development” was made available.

6 In consultation with the

ARWG, pilot test

“Supporting commercial

aquaculture

management and

development” training

module.

Pilot testing of the modules was done in two ways, first

by testing the ability of an independent extension officer

(based in Uganda) to assess the status and constraints of

case-study pond farm located near Entebbe, Uganda,

and provide the appropriate advice and guidance for

efficient aquaculture development. Secondly, by testing

the suitability and feasibility of the advice with the farm

manager/owner at the described farm and assess the

likelihood of the advice to be followed.

The feedback from the pilot-test revealed that although

the extension of the training modules seemed somehow

extensive and sometimes technical and/or complicated,

the content and the extend of the subjects covered

proved to be useful and appropriate to address the issues

that a potential commercial aquaculture business might

encounter and many times and not considered, in

particular, employment of efficient production

technologies and practices, as well as the best marketing

strategies for profit maximisation and efficient business

skills to help reduce risks and reassure sustainable and

long lasting development of the venture.

Phase II Activities

7 Make all the logistical

arrangements to complete

the training itself

The KEs were successful to organise the main training

workshop, bringing 22 participants from 7 countries

(Annex VI), taking care of the logistics,




(including invite

participants, arrange

travel, book and pay for

flights and vehicles for

participants as

necessary, training venue

costs, provision of

interpretation services

English/French, and

field visit);

accommodation, traveling, food, venue arrangements,

stationary, lectures, key speakers, field trips, payments,

etc.

KEs provided a list of the participants to be contacted

and invitation letters sent by ACP Fish II regional

coordinator.

8 Conduct the training for

the nominated 18

Fisheries Officers and 4

ARWG members

The training workshop was organised at Central Inn, in

Entebbe, Uganda between 23-27/09/2013.

Training workshop included lectures, key speakers and

field trips.

All aspects of the training stated in the Terms of

Reference were accomplished.

9 Develop formats for

monitoring performance

of participants after the

training and provide

the monitoring frame (to

be used by the LVFO and

Fisheries Administrations

after

completion of the

assignments)

Each participant was given a training evaluation form in

which they provided feedback.

10 Evaluate the training A summary evaluation of the training program is

provided below.

11 Prepare final project

documentation and

Trainer’s Manual

Training manual includes Annexes VII, VIII, IX and

XII

4.2 Conduct and details of the assignment including visibility activities

4.2.1 Phase 1 Inception, 1st Input – Research and consultation

The following initial consultations were conducted related to Commercial Aquaculture

Development and Management in East Africa. The date of meetings or document publications

are described in Parenthesis.

1) LVFO - ACP Fish II – KEs meeting (14/08/13). Revision and discussion of ToRs and

potential planning issues.

2) Aquaculture Research & Development Centre Kajjansi. Dr Dismas Mbabazi, Dr

OworiWadunde, Dr Namulawa Victoria & Ondhoro Constantine (16/08/13).




Meeting held with KEs to learn and discuss about any issues related to commercial

aquaculture development. Main topics discussed were the status of commercial aquaculture in

Uganda and East Africa, main constraints of commercial aquaculture development, past,

recent and future research projects, main areas of research and involvement with extension

officers and other institutions/stakeholders related to the industry.

3) Regional Aquaculture Strategy and Investment Plan (Document) (2009), investment

program elaborated to establish an enabling environment for the expansion of

commercial aquaculture, building on the coordinating capacity of LVFO. Guiding KEs

on current efforts on commercial aquaculture development in the region.

4) Aquaculture Research and Development for the Lake Victoria Basin Project

(Document)(2004). Aiming to develop aquaculture in the Lake Victoria basin as a

means of increasing fish production in the basin and reducing pressure on wild stocks

which were showing signs of over-exploitation. Providing insight of recent efforts to

promote farming in large water bodies.

5) Meeting with DG of Animal Resources and Fisheries Department at the Ministry of

Agriculture in South Sudan (SS), (Sarafino Aloma) (19-21/08/13). Introduction and

description of the actual status of aquaculture and fisheries in SS, its constraints and

potential. Courtesy meetings with the Under Secretary of Animal Resources and

Fisheries, DG Projects Development Coordination, DG of some State Fisheries

Departments, Fisheries Extension Officers, and market stakeholders (wholesale market

of dry fish). Highlights of these meetings were the negligible development level of

aquaculture in the country, due to known political, financial and social issues. There is

huge potential for development due to its available resources (water, land, climate,

labour, etc.) but requires great support from policy makers, financial institutions and

research and development institutes to bring the adequate know how. Also a major

constraint is the lack of domestic supply of most inputs (e.g. fingerlings, feed,

equipment, etc.) and the lack of a proper marketing and/or cold chain to trade fresh

products.

6) Meeting with FAO Fishery Development Officer in SS (William)(20/08/13).

Description and discussions of FAOs involvement in aquaculture development in the

region. Identifying main constraints and potentials. This NGO has been actively

involved in the few projects available in the country and is working very close along

governmental institutions.

7) Meeting with the Federal Fishery Development Department of Ethiopia (Hussein

Abegaz) (22-23/08/13). Introduction and description of the actual situation of the

aquaculture and fishery industries in Ethiopia. Highlighting its constraints and

potentials. Similar to SS, Ethiopia’s aquaculture industry is extremely undeveloped

with only a few scattered projects along the country. In contrast with SS, Ethiopia is a

stable country with political and financial will to promote any agri-industry. However,

similar to SS the status is as follows;, lack of experienced producers/developers and

the required know how for commercial aquaculture,, lack of suppliers of inputs for its

development (e.g. fingerlings, feed, equipment, etc.),its marketing chain is

undeveloped and trading is mainly in frozen products.




8) Visits to fish traders in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia (24/08/2013)which confirmed the low

level of development of the marketing chain in the country, as there was only one

major wholesaler/distributor, run by the government, with poor availability of

products, very little variety of species and presentations (only frozen fillets (small

size) available), with low quality standards and high prices. Nevertheless,

supermarkets seemed to be keen to offer fish products of quality, as out of 4 different

chains visited, 3 were offering fish (frozen only). Price difference between the

wholesaler and retailer (supermarket) was 30% (apart from one which was much

higher), which is typical within the marketing chain in many other countries. Demand

of fish compared to other meat products is much lower, understandably common

amongst landlocked countries.

4.2.2 Phase 1, 2nd

Input – Main criteria defined by KEs to be considered when

selecting potential FOs for development of commercial aquaculture.

The KEs assisted in the selection criteria of the targeted group of potential trainees’ fisheries

officers (FOs). Main criteria defined by KEs to be consider when selecting potential FOs is

described below:

i. Relevant experience in commercial aquaculture.

ii. Availability to travel and consult/train producers.

iii. Polite and patient personality.

iv. Medium level of education to be able to explain clearly technical issues.

v. Proper knowledge transfer skills, e.g. how to approach people of different background

and attitudes towards support, knowledge of appropriate usage of didactic material, etc.

vi. Understanding the relevance of participatory approach for efficient training.

4.2.3 Phase 1, 6th

input – Definition of focal points and ARWG Members

A list of Focal points and ARWG members was provided by ACP Fish II Regional

coordinator together with LVFO representatives (Annex XIV).

4.2.4 Phase 1, 6th

Input – Working Plan and timetable of activities

The project was developed in two phases: phase I related to the preparation and information

compilation, workshops and training modules development, and phase II for the actual

implementation of the Training of Trainers course. Detailed activities and the timelines are

presented in Annexes II.

4.2.5 Phase 1, 4th

input – Training need Assessment Methodology and Findings

After the consultation period and in collaboration with ARWG, to build the capacities of the

ARWG in development of training modules, the definition, planning and execution of the




Training Need Assessment (TNA) (Annex XIII) in Burundi, Rwanda, Ethiopia, South Sudan

was carried. This was done through consultations, interviews, practical field visits and

participatory approach with FAs, Research Institutes, and other key Value Chain actors.

Key findings of the TNA were classified in various areas of interest for training modules

development:

• The main opportunities to promote aquaculture in the region.

• The major constraints that prevented the proper development of aquaculture.

• The key training needs for extension officers to develop commercial aquaculture in the

region.

• The key development programs, institutions and stakeholders involved in the

development of commercial aquaculture.

• The main techniques or strategies followed to extend knowledge for commercial

aquaculture development.

• Main strategies to mitigate perceived risks on aquaculture ventures.

According to the TNA findings, it was clear the apparent potential of commercial aquaculture

development in the East African Region due to the immense water resources, favourable

climatic conditions, and huge market potential, especially because of the fall in captured

fisheries outputs and increased fish consumption.

However, despite this potential, it was also clear that there are a number of constraints that the

aquaculture industry face, in particular the lack of good quality inputs in many countries

(especially fish feed and seeds), lack of basic infrastructure (in some countries), lack of

enough qualified personnel, low networking between stakeholders (e.g. research institutions,

extension officers and farmers), lack of good marketing strategies, poor data recording

(production and financial), low level of funding, lack of networking between countries, etc.

Given all these constraints, a variety of needs were also expressed, including the need to

promote research and development geared towards the real needs of the aquaculture industry,

the necessity to develop and promote more efficient production systems and business

strategies including economies of scale and integrated aquaculture, extension officers and fish

Its findings

4.2.6 Phase 1, 5th

Input – Training Needs Assessment and Module Development

workshop

The TNA and Module Development workshop (Annex IV) with the participation of the 3

ARWG members and one LVFO representative, was held at LVFO premises in Jinja, Uganda

between 29/08/13 and 02/09/13. The workshop was organised in 2 sections, a) TNA and b)

Training Modules Development, both requiring the assistance and presence of the ARWG

members and LVFO representative. For the former section of the workshop, TNA findings,

experiences and constraints were discussed and defined, and the information employed during

the second stage of the workshop for the training modules development. Additionally, a set of

field trips and key guest speakers were organised during this first stage of the workshop to

enhance the appropriateness and relevance of the learning material required for the training

modules. After completion of the TNA, all relevant material required to work on the modules

development for “the regional training program on commercial aquaculture management and

development” was made available.




4.2.7 Phase 1, 7th

Input – Training Modules

On completion of the TNA consultation and workshop, 3 training modules were developed:

i. Efficient Commercial Aquaculture Production Systems and Practices (Annex III);

ii. Marketing Strategies for Profitable Commercial Aquaculture Development (Annex

IV);

iii. Business Management Skills for Successful Commercial Aquaculture

Development (Annex V).

The theoretical training mainly focused on efficient aquaculture production systems and

practices, marketing strategies for profit maximisation, and business management skills and

strategies in commercial aquaculture that should be adopted to ensure successful business

development (Annexes VII, VIII and IX).

4.2.8 Phase 1, 8th

Input – Training Modules pilot testing

Pilot testing of the modules was done in two ways, first by testing the ability of an

independent extension officer (based in Uganda) to assess the status and constraints of a case-

study pond farm located near Entebbe, Uganda, and provide the appropriate advice and

guidance for efficient aquaculture development. Secondly, by testing the suitability and

feasibility of the advice with the farm manager/owner at the described farm and assessing the

likelihood of the advice to be followed.

The feedback from the pilot-test revealed that although the extension of the training modules

seemed somehow extensive and sometimes technical and/or complicated, the content and the

extent of the subjects covered proved to be useful and appropriate to address the issues that a

potential commercial aquaculture business might encounter and many times not considered, in

particular, employment of efficient production technologies and practices, as well as the best

marketing strategies for profit maximisation and efficient business skills to help reduce risks

and reassure sustainable and long lasting development of the venture.

4.2.9 Phase 1, 9th

Input – Training Workshop Schedule

After definition of training modules and their testing, the definition, planning and organising

of the training workshop was done. This is described in Annex X. List of participants is

described in Annex VI.

4.2.10 Phase 2, 10th

input – Workshop Efficient commercial aquaculture

production systems and practices.

Workshopon commercial aquaculture production techniques and management practices were

described and covered (Annex VII). Key areas covered in the module included; main species,




production systems, hatchery, husbandry and management techniques, e.g. stocking densities,

feeding and water quality. Also included was the efficient use of resources through integration

and recycling. Other key aspects included was harvesting handling and processing.

4.2.11 Phase 2, 11th

Input – Workshop on Marketing Strategies for profitable

commercial aquaculture development

The workshop in marketing strategies for profitable commercial aquaculture development is

described in Annex VIII. Key areas covered included principles of marketing aquatic

products, main sources, marketing chain, market behaviour, marketing strategies, marketing

tools, and marketing plan.

4.2.12 Phase 2, 12th

Input – Workshop on Business skills for successful

commercial aquaculture development

The workshop in business skills for successful commercial aquaculture development is

described in annex IX. Key areas covered were business management principles, start-up

considerations, business plan, key information requirements, basic economic and financial

skills (record keeping and financial performance monitoring), business strategies, financing

and ethics in sustainable aquaculture businesses.

4.2.13 Phase 2, 13th

Input – Troubleshooting matrix

The workshop enabled the development of a troubleshooting matrix (Annex XII) which will

assist the extension officers form the 7 countries to address issues, network with key

stakeholders, and find solutions which are not available in their own country.

4.2.14 Phase 2, 14th

Input, Certificate of attendance

Each participant was given a certificate of attendance (Annex IV)

5 Conclusions and Recommendations

Comments on the assignment and lessons learned:

Due to the time-constraints, an in-depth TNA for the countries related to the project

could provide further issues and actions that might require further consideration and

inclusion.

The lessons learnt, workshops and training modules could be shared/adapted to

neighbouring countries (other than ACP Fish II), as wider regional synergies are key

for a successful industry development.




In order to add context to the training modules and provide a holistic framework, it is

recommended that additional assessment approaches on the commercial aquaculture

industry needs are considered, in particular in relation to the business and market

management needs/issues. Aquaculture development efforts commonly focus only in

production issues than business related issues. Proper business and market strategies

are as important as the know how to produce a particular specie.

The first module, efficient aquaculture production systems and practices, included an

introduction to aquaculture and differentiation between subsistence aquaculture

(widely practiced in the region) and commercial aquaculture (which is mainly profit-

oriented), description of the main species suitable for commercial aquaculture in the

region (namely Tilapia and catfish), as well as the description of the main production

systems available (including ponds, cage culture, tank culture, raceways, etc.) and

their associations/integrations with other agri-industries in order to optimize both

performance and resources usage. Knowledge gains and learnings from the modules

and its applicability will be as expected site and conditions dependent, and therefore

will require the definition and standardisation of expertise and knowledge available

between the participants of the training program to be able to work as a group for

regional development.

Examples of real-case data recording formats and analysis should be included, in

particular for production and business management practices.

During the training workshop, each country presented a summary of the status,

opportunities and main constraints of aquaculture production, marketing and business

skills available in their own country, allowing the rest of the participant to learn from

each other. Especially when considering the difference in development amongst the

ACP Fish II countries.

Developing a troubleshooting matrix could help find solutions and/or network within

different stakeholders for the entire region. This will help in sharing experiences,

preventing making the same mistakes as well as help in developing the industry. In

particular interest is the possibility to find sources of inputs that could help reduce

production costs and/or allow the development of commercial aquaculture altogether.




6 Annexes

Annex I Inception Report

Annex II Working Plan and timetable of activities

Annex III TNA methodology and Findings Summary

Annex IV TNA and Module Development workshop

Annex V Interim Technical Report

Annex VI List of participants attending the Training Workshop

Annex VII Workshop on Production systems and practices

Annex VIII Workshop on Marketing Strategies for commercial

aquaculture development

Annex IX Workshop on Business management Skill for commercial

aquaculture development

Annex X Training program schedule

Annex XI Participating countries presentations on the Status of the 3

main subject areas of training in their own country.

Annex XII Troubleshooting Matrix

Annex XIII Focal Points and ARWG member list

Annex XIV Certificate of Attendance

Annex XV Evaluation forms

Documents

Final Technical Report - ACP Fish II - Welcomeacpfish2-eu.org/uploads/projects/id240/FTR ACP Fish II EA...ACP Africa, Caribbean and Pacific states ANAF Aquaculture Network for Africa