By Obinna Uballa
A major fish farming initiative in Cameroon is driving economic transformation and improving food security, thanks to the introduction of a new strain of African catfish (clarias) under the Livestock and Fish Farming Value Chain Development Project (PD-CVEP).
The €84 million project, financed by the African Development Bank (AfDB) and implemented by Cameroon’s Ministry of Livestock, Fisheries and Animal Industries, aims to boost local fish production, reduce imports, and create jobs, a statement from the instructions said on Wednesday.
The new strain, developed by the Agricultural Research Institute for Development, is gaining popularity for its rapid growth, low fat content, and high survival rate, the statement said, adding that compared to older varieties, the improved clarias reach a harvest weight of 350–500 grammes in five to just six months instead of nine, and have an 80–85% fry survival rate versus 60% previously.
Each female can produce up to 20,000 fry per cycle, with three cycles annually.
Since October 2024, 50 pilot hatcheries have reportedly received 2,600 broodstock and have already produced over 115,000 fry for commercial farming, the statement said.
“The support given by the project is encouraging us to go further. We have real motivation to continue what we’ve started,” said Limbé-based farmer Fanta Njifondjou Oumarou.
According to the statement, beyond supplying broodstock, the project includes comprehensive training for 280 farmers across Cameroon on aquaculture techniques, business management, and value chain development. The goal, it said , is to increase annual national fish output by 10,000 tons by 2027.
An AfDB mission in April 2025 recommended accelerating broodstock supply, with plans to deliver 15,000 more fish, 12,000 clarias and 3,000 tilapia, in partnership with the research institute, the bank noted.
Market demand is also rising, with restaurants and vendors praising the improved quality and taste. “The flesh stays firm after grilling because it contains less fat than older strains. The flavour appeals to customers and my income has increased significantly,” said Douala fish seller Moukoudi Mbappé Dolie.
The project is also said to be upgrading sales infrastructure at markets such as Deïdo and Dakar in Douala, introducing hygienic counters, ice, and running water. “Clean and secure counters will help us preserve the fish better and sell with dignity,” said vendor Marthe Epoko.
Authorities say the initiative aligns with Cameroon’s rural transformation agenda. “We will provide close support to beneficiary hatcheries. This project is crucial for the future of our aquaculture sector,” said Victor Viban Banah, a regional delegate of the Ministry of Livestock.
