Status And Contribution Of Fish Farming Under Economic Stimulus Program In Kitui Central Sub-County, Kitui County.

ABSTRACT

In 2010, the Economic Stimulus Program (ESP) was initiated by the Government of Kenya with the aim of encouraging aquaculture in Kenya. Kitui Central Sub- County benefited with 200 fish ponds under ESP. However, their status is not known in terms of production, challenges and the contribution of fish farming to household wellbeing. To address this, a sample of sixty (60) fish farmers were used from the targeted 200 fish farmers who benefited from the Government’s support. The primary data collected using pre-tested structured questionnaires were coded, organized and analysed. Chi square and regression analysis were carried out to generate percentages, frequencies, Pearson’s correlation and multiple regression tables. Results showed that lack of information, lack of sufficient water , lack of adequate funding, poor pond management and lack of quality fingerlings predicted fish farming significantly (P