Technical Performance of Fish Farms in Cameroon: Measurements and Key Factors

This study analyzes the techno-economic and socio-economic factors determining the choice of fish farming systems and their technical efficiency in 300 randomly sampled farms across the Littoral, Central, and Western regions of Cameroon. Using a Tobit model, the results reveal a significant correlation between socio-economic variables, the choice of farming systems, and the technical performance of operations. Four farming systems were identified: pond, Fastank, cubitainer, and concrete tank. The activity is predominantly male-driven across all systems, with a focus on Clarias and Tilapia species. Factors influencing the choice of farming systems include the level of education, membership in associations, access to training, and the species cultivated. The technical efficiency analysis shows that farms exhibit overall low or inefficient performance, with an average efficiency score of 54% (based on VRS/CRS models). However, efficiency could be optimized by adopting intensive systems (Fastank), selecting high-yield species (Tilapia, Clarias), and providing fish farmers with training in aquaculture techniques for better resource management.