Introduction: Pearl of Africa, Uganda, premier tourist destination, #1 producer in EA the fastest growth node for aquaculture & #3 In Africa boasts a substantial aquaculture infrastructure, with over 25,000 av 500m² ponds. However, the current productivity of these earthen ponds, at approx 3.8t/y, falls short of Uganda’s aquaculture potential, does not meet its current demand and won’t achieve its ambitious 2030, 1M tons/Y target.
Here, I present how UI-RAS FlocPonics hybrid systems can integrate with ponds to transform & unlock commercial viability by dramatically increasing national aquaculture output to meet set targets with minimal additional investment.
If in 2023 Uganda produced 120,000T/Y, and our PoC UI-RAS FlocPonics gives 6 tons/year in 64 m², then a 500 m² hybrid modified pond system has potential to produce 46.8t/y, or 1,171,875 t/y from 25K ponds.
The Challenge: Lack of knowledge, Traditional earthen pond limitations, Low stocking density, Environmental Vulnerability, long gestation and high FCR.
Solution: UI-RAS FlocPonics Hybrid System has knowledge to leverage existing pond infrastructure, harness the potential of African catfish species to increase productivity and create wealth for the community. On this World Aquaculture Safari 2025 event, we request the addition of Aquatourism on the Tourist circuit.
Better Water Quality, low FCR, Nutrient Recycling, Increased Stocking Density, Reduced Water discharge and Loss.
Economic and Environmental Benefits):
Sludge: UI-RAS FlocPonics collects sludge, bio-digests it and the slurry is composted to make e-coli free high value organic vegetable fertilizer.
The 4 month season gives 3 cycles a year, lower FCR. The use of less protein in feed drastically reduces costs and increases profits.
Minimal Investment: No need for extensive new infrastructure development.
Call to Action: Collaboration with government, development partners, Research/financial institutions to implement this to support smallholder farmers to meet Govt. set targets.
Visit: UI-RAS FlocPonics PoC in Budo.