Fish farming, with its myriad benefits, is a beacon of hope for farmers seeking to diversify their income streams and embrace a more resilient agricultural model.
Evans Moseti, a farmer in Nyansangio village, nestled within Mosora in Nyamache subcounty of Kisii county, welcomes young farmers to the exciting world of fish farming, where innovation meets opportunity. Here, he gives farmers a chance to dive into a sea of endless possibilities.
Against the backdrop of lush greenery and hills, Moseti's farm stands as a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of farmers in rural communities.
He has embraced fish farming not just as a livelihood but as a passion-driven mission to foster economic growth and environmental sustainability.
What began as a single fish pond, measuring 4 by 6 feet, has blossomed into a thriving enterprise, featuring five ponds that signify not just growth but a commitment to sustainable agriculture.
Moseti says it is his deep-seated passion for aquatic life that initially pushed him to fish farming long before the intervention of the county government.
His dedication and hard work, coupled with personal savings lay the foundation for a flourishing fish farming venture.
With support from the Department of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Cooperative Development of Kisii county government, Moseti’s journey in fish farming has been catapulted to new heights.
In his early days of fish farming, Moseti immersed himself in multiple activities that defined the life of a farmer. He located the ideal spot for the venture, a calm haven tucked away in Nyansangio.
Undeterred by the challenges that lay ahead, he single-handedly constructed his first pond, a labour of love that would serve as the cornerstone of his enterprise.
Bringing water to the pond became his daily ritual. Even when gravity water wasn’t readily available, Moseti found innovative solutions, recognising the value of every drop, including harnessing rainwater to sustain the fish.
“Fish can survive by even water from the rain, sometimes it can take a whole month without gravity water,” he said.
With the groundwork laid and the stage set, Moseti prepared the pond, ensuring optimal conditions for the thriving ecosystem he envisioned. And then came the moment of anticipation and excitement; stocking the pond with 50 fingerlings, a modest yet promising beginning to his aquaculture journey.
These fingerlings, received from the Fisheries Department, represented more than just fish, they symbolised hope, opportunity, and the potential for growth.
With years of hands-on experience under his belt, Moseti’s now understands the critical role that food plays in the growth and development of his aquatic companions. He emphasises the importance of providing a balanced diet tailored to the specific needs of the fish, ensuring they receive the nutrients necessary for healthy growth and vitality.
He said the duration of rearing can vary significantly, typically spanning eight to 12 months, depending on the availability of food and environmental factors.
Moseti closely monitors the conditions in each pond, adjusting his approach as needed to optimise growth and maximise yield. He is however quick to caution against feeding the fish during rainy periods, citing potential waste and inefficiency.
But even with the remarkable progress Moseti has achieved, it hasn’t been without its share of challenges. One of the hurdles he faces is the occasional loss of fingerlings during their introduction to the ponds.
Despite his best efforts to ensure a smooth transition, some fish succumb to the stresses of relocation. Additionally, predators pose a constant threat, with birds of prey and even human interference jeopardising the safety of his precious stock.
However, amidst these challenges, the benefits of fish farming far outweigh the setbacks, providing Moseti with hope for a promising future and giving his family a better life.
He proudly shares how the proceeds from his enterprise have enabled him to pay for his children’s school fees, ensuring they have access to quality education. The income has allowed him to diversify his agricultural pursuits, branching out into bee farming and coffee cultivation.
One of the key advantages Moseti highlights is the efficiency of fish farming in terms of land usage. “Unlike traditional farming methods such as maize cultivation, aquaculture requires relatively little space yet yields substantial return,” he says.
This efficient use of resources not only maximises productivity but also minimises environmental impact, he says.
Additionally, he says that the abundance of fish harvested from his ponds serves as a valuable source of nutrition for his family, reducing their reliance on bought food items and stretching their budget further.
Eager to share his knowledge and expertise with others interested in embarking on a similar journey, Moseti extends an open invitation to those interested in fish farming to come learn for free.
As Moseti reflects on his journey, challenges faced and the obstacles he has overcame, he says fish farming is more than just a livelihood, it is a calling, a lifelong commitment to sustainability.