Njala University launches Handbook on Sustainable Aquaculture
The Vice Chancellor and Principal of Njala University Professor Ernest Ndomahina together with his counterpart in the University of Makeni, Reverend Father Joe Turay were joined by Dr. Richard Conteh to officially launch a handbook on Sustainable Aquaculture over the weekend in Makeni. The Handbook which will be used by farmers, students in University and Secondary Schools, Researchers etc., was developed by Department of Aquaculture and Fisheries Management at Njala University. (Dr. Richard Conteh, Rev. Father Prof. Joe Turay and Professor Ernest Ndomahina)
Professor Ernest Ndomahina informed his audience that handbook is not only reach in content but also has the solution to the numerous challenges faced in the Aquaculture sector, which Policy Makers should make use at any given time. He added that the handbook is good for University and Secondary School Students.
Reverend Father Joe Turay of the University of Makeni thanked Njala University for putting together such a document that will go a long way in the development of the education sector.
Dr. Richard Conteh, who is also owned a Poultry and Fish Pond, said the Handbook will serve as a guide for farmers in the Aquaculture Sector.
Njala University is currently implementing the “Sustainable Integrated Pond Based Aquaculture with rice and poultry production, economic, social and environmental assessment” project with funds from the West and Central African Council for Agriculture Research and Development (WECARD).
The fish cum rice, piggery and poultry production projects at Njala University seek to develop land use systems through adaptive research and traditional experiences compatible to the cultural and social values of the people. It further aims to improve socioeconomic conditions, reduce risks, and generate jobs and income in rural areas.
Aquaculture is given high priority by the Government of Sierra Leone for Food Security, job creation and income generation as well as improved nutrition. The Agenda for Prosperity expresses the need and importance of providing affordable fish to all Sierra Leoneans.
The Project Coordinator, Dr. Olapade Olufemi Julius said Njala University is partnering with the University of Buea in Cameroon and the University of Ibadan in Nigeria to implement a grant of $500,000 for each project from the West and Central African Council for Agriculture Research and Development (WECARD). The three-year grant is intended for the implementation of the Integrated Fish Culture project.
The rationale behind aquaculture development is to make available good quality fresh fish that will provide affordable fish protein to the poor and fast growing rural population. This will also reduce the pressure on capture marine environments.
Participants interviewed emphasized the need for reviving the aquaculture industry, noting that it has the potential to contribute positively to a country’s foreign exchange and the diversification of the livelihood of farmers and overall poverty reduction.
“With good fish farming, people cannot just rely on fish as a source of protein, but also as a source of income generation,” they said.
The Project is currently contributing to the creation of livelihood opportunities that have the tendency to generate income and ensure temporary and permanent jobs for women and youths within the project areas.
By Contact Tracer
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