Contributing to sustainable aquaculture in Africa
The Norwegian Veterinary Institute has played a key role in strengthening fish health and promoting sustainable aquaculture in Sub-Saharan Africa.
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Through the Aquatic Health Africa (AHA) project, implemented from 2020 to 2025, the institute made important contributions, alongside regional and international partners by providing scientific expertise, research, and capacity building.
The project was led by WorldFish and funded by Norway, with a primary focus on Ghana and Kenya. Its main objectives were to strengthen research and education capacity through different activities , and enhance collaboration and knowledge sharing across the region.
According to the report “Increased Sustainability in the Aquaculture Sector in Sub-Saharan Africa through Improved Aquatic Animal Health Management”, the project delivered clear and tangible results. It supported the training of new professionals through master’s degree programs and resulted in more than 20 scientific publications, increasing the international visibility of African research.
-Disease surveys were conducted at nearly 300 aquaculture farms, providing important knowledge to improve biosecurity and disease management in Kenya and Ghana. In addition, laboratory facilities and diagnostic tools were strengthened ensuring long-term capacity for aquatic animal health management. Education and capacity building were among the project’s greatest successes. Numerous online courses were developed, and hands-on training was delivered to participants from eight countries. These efforts strengthened the ability of institutions and professionals to prevent, detect, and manage diseases in aquatic animals, says Dr. Edgar Brun the project lead at the Norwegian Veterinary Institute.
The project also built strong regional and international networks through conferences, training programs, and digital platforms for knowledge sharing. Despite delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the project adapted quickly by adopting digital solutions, and objectives were achieved. within the planned timeframe and budget.
Overall, the AHA project strengthened sustainable systems for diagnostic capacity, research, education, and collaboration.
“These results provide a solid addition for the continued development of good fish health and sustainable aquaculture in Sub-Saharan Africa,” Brun concludes.
