Profitability of aquaculture by gender in Delta State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined the profitability of aquaculture by gender in Delta State, Nigeria. The study population consisted of 3,295 aquaculture farms from 32 identified clusters in Delta State. A total of 991 aquaculture farms formed the sample for the study. Data were collected through questionnaires and unstructured interviews using enumerators. The data collected were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Scientists (SPSS) version 24. Gross margin analysis model, Likert scale and z-test were used for data analysis. The results showed that the majority of aquaculture farmers in the study area were male and their average age was 42 years. Most of the aquaculture farms were married, had a moderate household size and had a relatively high level of education. In terms of profitability, male aquaculture producers had higher net incomes and a better benefit-cost ratio than their female counterparts. However, female aquaculture marketers generated greater profits than male marketers in this area. Male input suppliers were found to be more profitable than female input suppliers in a study on the profitability of aquaculture input suppliers. This study, therefore, recommends that efforts should be made to encourage and support more female participation in aquaculture activities. This can be achieved through training programs, access to finance and resources, and addressing social and cultural barriers that limit female involvement.