Diagnosis of constraints in inland aquaculture in southern Benin

Inland aquaculture contributes to food security, employment, and economic development in Benin. However, its expansion remains limited due to numerous constraints. This study aims to assess the challenges faced by the aquaculture sector in southern Benin. Climatological, geographical, aquaculture, and socioeconomic data were collected from national and international databases, and field surveys were also conducted on aquaculture farms. The results reveal that aquaculture is predominantly practiced by men (88.87%) with a university-level education (24.19%), mainly driven by passion (77.10%), and primarily raising Oreochromis niloticus (60.56%) in ponds (72.73%). Nevertheless, the sector faces several constraints such as financial difficulties (57.89%), predator management (34.49%), and poor market access (19.65%). Between 2005 and 2024, strong anthropogenic dynamics led to the regression of swamp forests (−278.4 km²) and mangroves (−68.98 km²), in favor of croplands and fallow lands. The loss of 8.63 km² of water bodies to urban expansion has caused ecological imbalances, including the flooding of aquaculture farms. An integrated approach, combining technical and financial solutions with sustainable management of aquatic ecosystems and surrounding agricultural lands, is essential to address these challenges.