How Women, Youths Generate Income Through Fish Processing
“In the Uteh fish community of Ikpoba-Okha LGA, Edo State, a group of enterprising women and youths are demonstrating the significant economic potential of secondary activities in the fish processing value chain. By focusing on smoking or drying fish, these individuals are generating substantial income without the need to own fish farms. They charge N350 to smoke a kilogram of fish, with some processing up to 150 kg every three days, equating to a daily income of about N17,000.” Source: DAILY TRUST
Our Review:
This model not only provides a sustainable livelihood for the processors but also supports the broader fish farming industry by adding value to the raw product, which enhances its market appeal and shelf life. The processed fish, preferred by high-end markets in cities like Lagos and Abuja, exemplifies how localized value-added services can impact larger economic ecosystems.
Moreover, this activity fosters community engagement and economic independence, particularly among women and youth, who are crucial to the socioeconomic fabric of rural areas. It also highlights the importance of scalable agri-business models that can adapt and grow with the expansion of primary agricultural activities like fish farming.
This case study underscores the importance of developing the entire agricultural value chain, which can create significant employment opportunities and drive economic growth in rural communities.
