ASA’s World Initiative for Soy in Human Health program began the installation of aeration equipment for trials in Nigeria last week at two aquaculture farms. The Nebraska Soybean Board has supported WISHH’s trials in sub-Saharan Africa, which have now expanded to collaboration with two Nigerian aqua farms, CHI and JDPC, where WISHH has just installed equipment. WISHH’s trials aim to determine the efficacy of aerators alongside water exchange, providing key insights into best management practices for aquaculture producers. WISHH will share the results with catfish farmers in Nigeria through field day trainings that offer practical knowledge to boost feed conversion rates and leverage the benefits of quality soy-based fish feeds.
The installation of the aeration systems and trials follow the success of the technology during WISHH trials in Ghana last year. The Nebraska Soybean Board also supported those trials that assessed the economic viability of using in-pond aeration systems for fish farms.
Aeration systems are currently in limited use in Africa. The adoption of these innovative technologies help strengthens potential trade avenues for U.S. soy while supporting aquaculture farms in the region, creating a win-win situation for WISHH and its partners.