Abstract:
In 2010, the Economic Stimulus Program (ESP) was initiated by the Government of Kenya with the aim of encouraging aquaculture in Kenya. Kitui Central Sub- County benefited with 200 fish ponds under ESP. However, their status is not known in terms of production, challenges and the contribution of fish farming to household wellbeing. To address this, a sample of sixty (60) fish farmers were used from the targeted 200 fish farmers who benefited from the Government’s support. The primary data collected using pre-tested structured questionnaires were coded, organized and analysed. Chi square and regression analysis were carried out to generate percentages, frequencies, Pearson’s correlation and multiple regression tables. Results showed that lack of information, lack of sufficient water , lack of adequate funding, poor pond management and lack of quality fingerlings predicted fish farming significantly (P<0.05). This study also established that there is a strong positive correlation (r = 0.73, P < 0.05) between fish farming and household wellbeing. This was by more household assets, fees payment, improving household income, better health care and diet diversity as well as putting idle land to use. From the study, the policies and frameworks influencing fish production in the study area were; the policy on formation of groups, registration of farms, training of farmers and pond management policies. There was a significant association (χ2 = 65.423, p< 0.05) between policies, frameworks and fish farming. The study also revealed that the main fish farming stakeholders were; ESP officers, group members, fisheries department in the County and Government Ministry. The study recommends that stakeholders increase the number of extension officers in order to reach every fish farmer. In addition the County Fisheries Department of Kitui should ensure support to fish farmers for sustainability of projects after Government subsidies are terminated.
