WOMEN ENSURING NUTRITION SECURITY THROUGH FISH FARMING

The need for fish farming in Nigeria is important due to the fact that many Households depend on it for their animal protein intake. The level of protein deficiency in the diet is increasing, due to the fact that many people cannot afford to pay for the increasing cost of meat. Uninterestingly most of the fish produced in Nigeria is from artisanal sector. Women play very active role in artisanal fish farming, processing, distributing and marketing. They also do this with the aim of providing nutrition and income for the maintenance of family welfare. These women face several constraints while participating in fisheries activities. Therefore agricultural extension agents should provide information and technology that will sensitize the women to increase their production capabilities for sustainable protein nutrition security in the country. African Journal of Livestock Extension Vol.3 2004: 87-8