Integration of smallholder wetland aquaculture-agriculture systems (Fingerponds) into riparian farming systems at the shores of Lake Victoria, Kenya: socio-economics and livelihoods

This chapter presents the results of experimental Fingerponds: an integrated flood recession aquaculture–agriculture production system at the Lake Victoria wetlands in Kenya. The overall aim of the study was to assess the potential of Fingerponds as a sustainable wetland farming system for improving food security at subsistence level and within the context of the existing livelihood activities. The contribution of this new activity to the rural household livelihoods was evaluated. The strength of this innovative technology lies in the enhancement of natural, human and social capital. Since the production level is intermediate, the benefits may not be high in the short-term perspective. Economic analysis showed that the gross margin and net income of Fingerponds is about 752 Euros and 197 Euros per hectare per year, respectively. This is about 11 % increase in the annual gross margin of an average rural household around Lake Victoria. The additional per capita fish supply is 3 kg per season or more from a 192 m 2 pond. The potential fish protein supply of 200 kg/ha is high compared to most existing terrestrial protein production systems. Fingerponds have the potential to contribute to household food security and livelihood. The results of the sensitivity analysis indicated that the biophysical variations, which may occur from one wetland to another, have implications on the functioning and consequently the economic performance of these systems. This reinforces the need for the integration of these systems into other household activities to buffer the household against potential risk.