Has the Latest Fish Introduction in Lake Naivasha Improved Income of Fishermen? The Economics of Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) in Lake Naivasha

Abstract

Data used in this study was collected daily between January 2011 and April 2016 from four fish landing beaches along the shores of Lake Naivasha; Central, Karagita, Kamere and Tarambete beaches. The results revealed that the total landings of Nile tilapia Oreochromis niloticus has been gradually increasing from a 0% in 2011 to 42.7% (206.923 tons) of the total landings between January and April 2016 (422.613 tons) with projections of it surpassing carp by December 2016. These findings corroborate regular field observations which indicate that fishermen are abandoning carp fisheries, opting for Nile tilapia due to its high demand and increased market returns. Between January and April 2016, Nile tilapia had an average price per kg of KShs 147.52 compared to carp’s KShs 122.93. The study therefore concludes that the re-introduction of O. niloticus in 2011 has achieved its main objectives of food security and improving livelihoods since the fish has completely established itself and is now the key driver of Lake Naivasha fishery