Aquaponics Farming
Sustainable Aquaponics for Food Security, Environment, and Livelihoods
In 2025, Advocate Plus Sierra Leone made progress in implementing its aquaponics farming project to improve livelihoods and food security for women and youth. The project trained over 300 beneficiaries, equipping them with practical skills in fish farming and hydroponic vegetable production, and is currently working to establish cooperatives that will enable participants to operate and manage their own farms. The hatchery facility reached approximately 75% completion and produced three cohorts of fingerlings, which were distributed to farmers. Two additional earthen ponds were constructed to expand production capacity, and a fish feed pelleting machine was successfully procured and piloted. Partial installation of aquaponics and hydroponics systems was achieved, with plans for expansion as resources allow. Multiple production cycles were initiated, resulting in a total production of 26,000 kg of fish (70% of the annual target) and 23,000 kg of vegetables (51% of the annual target). Initial market linkages were also established, supporting early sales to local buyers and community markets.
Despite these achievements, the project faced challenges, including high input costs, incomplete feed production systems, and security issues such as theft, which resulted in losses for some beneficiaries. In response, the project is strengthening site security and supporting farmers to improve protection measures, while continuing to explore sustainable feed solutions.
