Africa’s total fish production does not meet the Continents food fish requirements. Africa has an estimated population of 1.6 billion people. The continents current food fish supply is estimated at about 9 kg per capita per annum while the global average has risen to approximately 20 kg capita per annum (FAO, 2016). The likelihood that capture fishery production can significantly be increased over the next 20 years to meet demand is low because most of the commercially important fish stocks are reported to be fully exploited or overexploited (FAO 2009). It is not a surprise therefore that over past five years Africa has become a net importer of fish.

Aquaculture currently provides the most sustainable option for the continent to expand is fish production. This recognition stems from Africa’s natural resource potential for aquaculture and the rapidly increasing demand for fish amid declining fishery yields. Global aquaculture production now exceeds production from capture fisheries. However, despite growth in the sector, African aquaculture only contributes to 2% of global aquaculture production. The Joint Conference of Africa ministers of agriculture, rural development and fisheries and aquaculture in 2014 recognized the potential of the aquaculture sector to generate wealth, social benefits and contribute to the development of the African economy and contribute to global Sustainable Development Goals.