Roles of Cooperative Society among Fish Farmers in Awka Agricultural Zone of Anambra State, Nigeria

Ikechukwu CC, Okeke PA, Akinrotimi OA, Owhonda KN, Ayaobu-Cookey Ik, Nwankwo CG and Okoli CM

Published on: 2025-01-11

Abstract

The roles of farmer’s cooperative societies in aquaculture development in Awka Agricultural zone in Anambra State, Nigeria were investigated. A total of 60 questionnaires were distributed among fish farmers in the study area. The results indicated that most (70.0%) of the respondents were males, and were within the age bracket of 36-50 years (46.77%). They were also married (61.67%), with household size of 5-10 (53.33%). The results further revealed that all the respondents had formal education, with 6-10 years of experience in fish farming (45.00%). Furthermore, fish processing (26.67%) and fish culture (25.00%) were the major activities carried out by the cooperative societies. Analysis of the benefits derived from the society by the members indicated that the highest (33.33%) and lowest (6.67%) benefits were accessibility to loans/grants and increased financial returns respectively. However, limited finance (33.33%) and ineffective loan policy (25.00%) were the major constraints faced by the cooperative societies in discharge of their duties. This study has shown that cooperative societies play a crucial role in improving the socio-economic status of fish farmers, enhancing their bargaining power, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. Also, fish farmers should be encouraged to establish fisheries cooperatives. Additionally, awareness on fisheries cooperatives in Awka Agricultural zone should be intensified and non-members should be encouraged to join in order to benefit from the available incentives.