Challenges and Socio-Economic Importance of Fish Production in Ethiopia:Review

Abstract

Fish is one of the most traded agricultural commodities and a major export for many developing countries, offering an opportunity for trade agreements which contribute to the development of poor countries. Development in fish production would have great economy contribution to the country, Ethiopia. This is because fisheries provide employment, food and income. Fish provide fatty acids critical for brain development, as well as protein and minerals. Good fisheries governance can contribute to sustainable aquatic resource management. Fish production potential of Ethiopia is estimated to be 51,400 tones per annum. Lake Tana, Ashenge, Hayk, Koka, Ziway, Langano, Awassa, Abaya and Chamo are among the potential fish rich lakes found in the country. The main commercial species contributing to the total landing are Oreochromis niloticus, Labeohori, Clarias gariepinus, Barbus species and Latesniloticus. Overfishing, improper management, weak institutional capacity,  lack of a reliable data collection system, the remoteness of fishing areas, the lack of basic infrastructure and equipments, the degradation of natural resources and the limited funds to implement the country’s strategies, plans and legislations are among important challenges of fish production in Ethiopia. By solving the challenges it is possible to improve fish production in the country. Therefore, all concerned bodies should be involved in solving the addressed production challenges to achieve future projected goal of the sector.

Keywords: Challenges, Economic Contribution, Fish Production