Value chain analysis of the small-scale funnel fishery at the confluence of the Zambezi/Chobe River, Zambezi Region, Namibia
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.22046805Keywords:
Funnel fishery, value chain, fish processing, Impalila IslandAbstract
The current study examined the value chain of a small-scale funnel fishery at the confluence of the Zambezi/Chobe River from June to September 2023. A mixed-methods research approach based on questionnaires and group discussions was employed to identify key actors, their roles, processing activities, as well as to quantify the value and profit margins at various stages. As a result, the study identified three actors, namely fishermen, fish traders, and fish vendors, who were actively involved in the fish handling and fish supply business. A total of 86 respondents, composed of 28 fishermen, 29 fish traders, and 29 fish vendors, were surveyed. Fish landing surveys revealed that a total of 25 fish species of various sizes were landed, processed, and traded over the study period. Further analysis of the socioeconomic characteristics of the actors showed that the fishermen were male-dominated, while the fish traders and fish vendors were gender balanced between male and female actors. Generally, 57% of all the fishermen, 48.3% of fish traders, and 48.3% of fish vendors were married with a minimum of five dependents. Education level was typically low among actors, with 75% of fishermen, 69% of fish traders, and 72% of fish vendors having attained up to primary education. Market analysis showed that fish vendors had the highest revenue (N$17,690.00/fish vendor) compared to fish traders (N$13,966.50/fish trader) and fishermen (N$9,311.00/fishermen). Despite these economic gains, the funnel fishery business faces several challenges such as transport, bad weather, and insect infestation of fish products. In this context, the study highlighted several opportunities for improving the value chain business, such as the establishment of solar dryers, proper hygienic fish storage, and improved road networks that would facilitate shipment of dried products to their target markets. Policies such as the development of fish landing sites and transportation infrastructure are important for improving the quality and competitiveness of the fishery product.
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