Fish consumption preferences and contributing factors among residents of Mpwapwa District, Dodoma Region, Tanzania

Abstract

Socioeconomic aspects mainly drive fish consumption preferences among consumers. A study was carried out to assess the fish preference, quantity of fish consumed, frequency and socioeconomic characteristics of consumers in Mpwapwa District in 2023. Factors affecting fish consumption by the residents of Mpwapwa District were also explored. A sample size of 150 individuals from various villages of Mpwapwa District was randomly selected to ensure representation across diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. An open ended structured questionnaire was employed in data collection. Results indicated that 44.00% of the respondents favoured eating tilapia, 37.33% preferred catfish and 18.67% ate other fishes. Most respondents ate fish once per week (41.00%), while few ate fish more than once per week (23.00%). A significant (p<0.05) positive correlation between fish consumption frequency and income and education level was observed. Fish consumption among age groups, marital status, gender, education level and season were observed to vary significantly (p<0.05). The amount and frequency of fish consumption in Mpwapwa District is below that of Tanzania and the worldwide average, particularly for lower socioeconomic groups. Fish consumption in Mpwapwa can be increased by providing education and training to the community on the importance of fish consumption and improved sanitation in the fish marketplace. Concurrently, fish availability and consumption should be dispersed throughout the year instead of being consumed seasonally. This study provides useful information for increasing fish consumption in Mpwapwa District.