Floating Cage Fish Farming Boosts Employment and Market Supply in Bagré

Bagré: Floating cage fish production in Bagré has led to the creation of over 100 jobs through an innovative initiative funded by the Dumu Ka Fa Fund, significantly increasing the availability of fish in the local markets. Launched as part of an agro-pastoral and fisheries initiative, this venture has garnered support from local promoters and has seen substantial growth since its inception.According to Burkina Information Agency, the floating cage fish farming project began with 44 beneficiaries and has now expanded to engage more than a hundred individuals in the region. Mr. Sorgho Ousseyny, Malguè Naaba of Bagré and president of the promoters of floating cage fish farming, highlighted the initial hesitance due to the novelty of the activity in Burkina Faso. However, with the technical, material, and financial backing from the Dumu Ka Fa Fund, the project has demonstrated successful outcomes.Mr. Sorgho himself benefited from approximately 58 million CFA francs in funding, which initially enabled him to a cquire eight 75 cubic meter cages. The profits from the first sales allowed him to purchase three additional circular cages, thereby increasing his production capacity. He explained that these circular cages have a capacity equivalent to two and a half to three times that of a conventional cage, effectively doubling his output potential.The Bagré region has now become a hub for fish supply, attracting people from Ouagadougou and neighboring provinces like Bagré, Bittou, Bané, Garango, Zoncé, and Tenkodogo. Large fishmongers frequently visit the area to acquire two to four tons of fish, while smaller resellers and fishmongers continue to operate on-site.Mr. Sorgho expressed gratitude towards the government and the Dumu Ka Fa Fund for their vision and commitment to this venture. He acknowledged the new government's initiatives and the compelling results they have achieved, thanking all stakeholders and promoters who embarked on this unfamiliar journey. "Today, they are fulfilled family men," he concluded.