Abstract:
Fish farming is more recent compared to subsistence crop farming in Nyamira County. It is significant due to its contribution to nutrition and income generation. This study conducted to assess factors that determine fish yield and income among small scale farmers from March to October 2015 in three sub counties of Nyamira. The specific objectives of the study were to determine the quantity and value of fish produced, consumed and sold by small scale fish farmers in Nyamira county; determine costs of aquaculture production inputs in relation to fish yields and income and relate them to their income and carry out the cost benefit analysis of the small scale fish farming enterprises in Nyamira County. This was a descriptive and quantitative survey. Data were obtained from 320 fish farmers using a stratified random sampling procedure. A well structured piloted questionnaire was used to collect data. To authenticate collected data, focused group discussions were held using a discussion guide. This was supplemented by information obtained through direct observation by the researcher and assistants. Data collected included demographic characteristics, number and size of fish ponds, Quantities and costs of pond inputs, yields, prices, quantities of fish consumed at home and income. Data were analysed using Excel spreadsheet and statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) version 20.0 programmes and presented in the form of tables, bar and line graphs. Chi-square analyses at α=0.05 were used to test if there were significant differences between fish yields and incomes. Cost Benefit Analysis was conducted to test profitability of small scale fish farming. Borabu Farmers obtained highest profits followed by those of Manga and Nyamira North respectively. A positive correlation between total feed costs and net income with (R) ranged from 0.479 - 0.519. The mean input costs per farmer ranged from Ksh 46.08 ± 0.08 - 50.34
± 58m-2. Cost Benefit Ratio indicated that Borabu had the highest with 4.66 followed by Manga (1.51) and Nyamira North (1.31). New farmers obtained low net income due to costs incurred on pond construction. The most commonly used inputs were vegetables, kitchen remains and omena (Dagaa). Constraints to production included scarcity of fingerlings, high feed costs and inadequate knowledge on aquaculture. This study concluded that small scale aquaculture can be profitable when appropriate inputs are provided.
