Browsing by Author "Semyalo, Ronald"

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Optimizing small-scale aquaculture systems in the Lake Victoria Basin Uganda through analysis of profitability drivers
(Springer Nature, 2025-08-07) Byabasaija, Syliver; Limuwa, Moses; Semyalo, Ronald
Small-scale aquaculture offers potential for improving livelihoods, food security, and economic growth. However, African fish farmers struggle to achieve profitability. This study investigated the financial performance of three small-scale aquaculture systems (ponds, cages, and aquaponics) in Uganda’s Lake Victoria Basin to identify variables influencing profitability. Using stratified random sampling, 169 fish farmers from Mpigi, Wakiso, and Buikwe districts were interviewed. Econometric analysis of small-scale aquaculture systems was performed using LIMDEP 9.0 software. Profitability was measured using key financial criteria such as gross margin, net farm income, and net return on investment. Furthermore, a linear regression model was used to analyse attributes influencing profitability. The analysis considered variables such as farm size, stocking density, access to extension services, and other crucial determinants. The results revealed that cage culture achieved a positive gross margin, while pond and aquaponics systems faced financial challenges due to high fixed and variable expenses, including feed, labour, and infrastructure. Farm size and fish prices have an impact on profitability. Nevertheless, high fish feed costs, predator problems, and poor technical support hinder financial performance. To improve the financial sustainability of aquaculture systems, the study recommends cost-effective feed management practices, offering financial assistance in the form of low-interest loans, extending training, and market linkages.
Unlocking potential: an assessment of small‑scale aquaculture viability in the Lake Victoria Basin, Uganda
(Springer Nature Link, 2025-03-22) Byabasaija, Syliver; Limuwa, Moses; Semyalo, Ronald
Despite small-scale pond aquaculture being a vital component of the Lake Victoria Basin communities, its viability is not known. In this study, we examined the viability of small-scale pond aquaculture in the districts of Mpigi, Buikwe, and Wakiso in Uganda, focusing on social-economic and technical aspects. Employing a mixed-methods approach, including household surveys and focus group discussions with 169 fsh farmers, the study assessed the efectiveness and sustainability of small-scale pond aquaculture in 2023. Despite challenges such as market access, low input quality, and environmental impacts, small-scale pond aquaculture is economically viable and plays a crucial role in fsh production. The Buikwe and Wakiso districts demonstrated greater productivity and efciency than did the Mpigi district, with notable variations in fsh production and pond sizes. The study further highlights the need to improve market access, input quality, and income diversifcation through targeted interventions within the basin. Additionally, eforts should be made to optimize technical practices such as pond management, efcient feed management, optimal stocking and harvesting techniques as well as disease management and biosecurity.