This project is a unique collaboration between WorldFish, the Norwegian Veterinary Institute, the University of Ghana, and the University of Nairobi. It aims to enhance the sustainability and resilience of the aquaculture sector in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), by focusing on improved aquatic animal health management and biosecurity governance. Targeting primarily Ghana and Kenya, the project also extends its impact to other SSA countries through extensive training programs and sustainable networking initiatives.
The program had several key objectives: strengthening research capabilities in aquatic animal health management in SSA, enhancing aquaculture education and extension services, and promoting the dissemination of knowledge on aquatic animal health within the One Health and One Food Systems framework across SSA.
A significant project component was the training and supervision of thirteen MSc students from the universities of Ghana and Nairobi, who researched various aspects of aquatic animal health. The project also implemented two comprehensive epidemiological studies in Kenya and Ghana, encompassing 179 and 99 farms. Several peer-reviewed articles were published based on research by MSc students and partner institutions.
Educational outcomes included the development of advanced educational modules on aquaculture and aquatic animal health, making training programs more accessible in SSA. Over 100 participants from eight African countries were trained in person at the WorldFish, Egypt Abbassa Fish for Africa Innovation Hub. Several digital e-learning courses on the Learn.ink platform were developed and made available on low-end mobile devices, benefiting participants from multiple African and Asian countries. Training sessions, both virtual and in-person, were conducted in Egypt, Kenya, Ghana, and Malaysia, covering topics such as general aquaculture, production systems, best management practices, water quality, biosecurity, outbreak investigation, epidemiology, parasitology, molecular-based disease diagnostic techniques, etc. Laboratory support was provided to MSc students, including training in bacterial whole-genome sequencing and antimicrobial susceptibility testing. Additionally, online educational materials on aquatic animal health for SSA were critically reviewed to identify gaps.
The AHA project fostered networking through regular meetings, workshops, seminars, and international conferences, enhancing collaboration and knowledge sharing among partners and students.
Overall, the AHA project has significantly improved aquatic animal health management and biosecurity governance in SSA, enhancing research and education capacities and promoting sustainable aquaculture practices.