RICE-FISH FARMING

RICE-FISH FARMING

Rice-Fish Farming: Integrating Agriculture and Aquaculture for Sustainable Rural Livelihoods

At Catalyst Liberia Incorporated, we specialize in integrated rice-fish farming, an innovative approach that combines irrigated lowland rice production with inland fish farming. This method not only increases farm productivity but also enhances food security and diversifies income sources for rural households.

With over 22 years of hands-on experience, our team has supported hundreds of farmers across Bong, Lofa, and Nimba Counties, introducing efficient pond systems, high-yield rice varieties, and sustainable aquaculture practices.

Our rice-fish farming programs are designed to:

• Improve farm productivity through dual-purpose land use

• Increase fish yield per hectare while boosting rice harvests

• Reduce reliance on external food sources by promoting self-sufficiency

• Train farmers in pond management, fish feed production, and water control systems

• Strengthen farmer-based organizations for collective marketing and resource sharing

Through projects like the Fish-Lib Project (2019–2023) in partnership with APDRA pisciculture paysanne, Catalyst Liberia has helped farmers double fish production from 0.5T/Ha/Year to 1T/Ha/Year while maintaining strong rice yields. We also integrate vegetable gardening into these systems, creating multi-layered income opportunities for farming households.

By combining traditional rice cultivation with sustainable aquaculture, we ensure that rural communities gain nutritious food, reliable income, and resilient livelihoods.